2018 Dodge Challenger Hellcat Widebody: Same Engine, More Grip [News]

Dodge has announced a new addition to their high-horsepower muscle car lineup with the 2018 Challenger Hellcat Widebody. This new model comes with a number of careful tweaks to the already impressive Hellcat to help it grip, and look better than the standard car.

First, and most noticeable to the eye, is the addition of the fender flares from the Dodge Demon. These add a total of 3.5 inches to the width of the car, providing Dodge with enough space to fit wider wheels. In fact, they have been able to fit the car with 20×11 inch “Devil’s Rim” wheels and 305 section tires. Compared to the regular Hellcat’s 275 section tires, this is a big improvement that will certainly help put more power down. Also included with the Hellcat Widebody is the front splitter from the Demon and the Spoiler from the standard Hellcat.

Speaking of power, the Hellcat Widebody has the same engine as the standard Hellcat. For the uninitiated, that is a 6.2L Supercharged V8 that makes 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed auto.

Dodge have also changed the steering to an electric power steering unit, claiming improved feel, handling, and usability at low speed.

Performance

Dodge claims that these slight adjustments to the Hellcat help make it significantly faster around a track. According to the press release, the Hellcat Widebody is 2 seconds, or 13 car lengths faster than a standard Hellcat on a 1.7 Mile course. The 1/4 mile time has improved from 11.2 seconds to 10.9. The 0-60 time is down .1 seconds to a blistering 3.4 seconds. The 305 section tires help the Widebody see a .04g improvement on the skidpad with the max being 0.97g. Finally, Dodge claims a top speed of 195 MPH, which is actually slower than the standard Hellcat. This is probably due to the increased drag from the massive new tires and the splitter fitted to the front bumper.

The Hellcat Widebody will start at $71,495 (including gas guzzler tax, excluding $1,095 destination fee). Dealer orders will open in July and cars should arrive to dealerships sometime in the third quarter.

Until then, why not watch Andre and Nathan walk around the vehicle live and in person from Detroit: