What you're looking at with the 2022 Charger Hellcat

The 2022 Dodge Charger Hellcat is a 4-door muscle car with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces 797 horsepower and 707 pound-feet of torque. It's the highest-performance version of Dodge's full-size sedan, designed to compete with cars like the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Cadillac CTS-V. The Hellcat comes in two body styles: the standard Charger Hellcat and the wider, more aggressive Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye, which adds 25 extra horsepower for a total of 822 hp.

This is a car built for straight-line speed and track driving, not fuel economy or daily practicality. The 0-60 time sits around 3.6 seconds, and the quarter-mile takes roughly 11.3 seconds at 127 mph. It's one of the fastest four-door sedans you can buy, and the price reflects that: the 2022 Hellcat started around $72,000 before options, while the Redeye began near $80,000.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2022 Charger Hellcat produces 797 hp (or 822 hp in Redeye trim) from a supercharged 6.2L V8 and accelerates from 0-60 in roughly 3.6 seconds.
  • Real-world fuel economy ranges from 13-15 mpg combined, depending on driving habits and transmission choice, making it expensive to operate.
  • The Hellcat comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission standard; a 6-speed manual was available as a no-cost option on the base model.
  • Insurance costs are significantly higher than standard sedans—expect to pay $2,000 to $3,500 annually depending on your age, location, and driving record.
  • Maintenance and repairs are expensive because of the supercharger, specialized parts, and the need for premium fuel and frequent oil changes.

Engine and transmission options

The 2022 Charger Hellcat uses a Roots-type supercharger bolted directly to the engine block, forcing air into the cylinders at high pressure. This is different from a turbocharger, which uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine. The supercharger delivers power when ready with no lag, which is why the Hellcat feels so quick off the line. The engine requires 91-octane fuel minimum, though Dodge recommends 93-octane for best performance.

Transmission choices were limited. The 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic came standard on all 2022 Hellcats and handles the power smoothly. A 6-speed Tremec manual transmission was available at no extra cost on the base Hellcat model, but not on the Redeye. The manual is a rarity in modern muscle cars and appeals to drivers who want full control, though it's slower in acceleration tests than the automatic.

The supercharger requires regular maintenance. Dodge specifies an oil change every 3,000 miles (or every three months, whichever comes first) when driving the Hellcat hard. If you drive it gently, you can stretch to 5,000 miles, but most owners don't. The supercharger fluid also needs checking and occasional replacement, adding to annual service costs.

Fuel economy and operating costs

The EPA rated the 2022 Charger Hellcat at 12 mpg city and 20 mpg highway with the automatic transmission, for a combined rating of 15 mpg. Real-world numbers tend to be lower—most owners report 13-15 mpg combined depending on how aggressively they drive. The manual transmission version was rated at 12 city and 19 highway (14 combined), so the difference is minimal.

At current fuel prices, expect to spend roughly $200 to $250 per month on gas if you drive 12,000 miles annually. That's significantly more than a standard sedan. Premium fuel (91 or 93 octane) costs 30 to 50 cents more per gallon than regular, which adds up quickly. Over five years of ownership, fuel costs alone could exceed $12,000 to $15,000.

Insurance is another major operating cost. The Hellcat's high horsepower, young demographic of buyers, and accident history make it expensive to insure. Quotes typically range from $2,000 to $3,500 per year for a driver in their 30s with a clean record, and can be significantly higher for younger drivers or those with accidents. Some insurers charge extra for high-performance vehicles or require special coverage.

Interior, comfort, and technology

The 2022 Charger Hellcat is a four-door sedan with seating for five, though the back seat is tight for adults on long drives. The front seats are supportive and bolstered for cornering, and the cabin is quieter than you'd expect from a muscle car, though engine noise is always present. The trunk holds 16.2 cubic feet, which is reasonable for a sedan but less than a typical family car.

The infotainment system uses Dodge's Uconnect interface with an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard on all models. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with satellite radio and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims add a premium sound system and navigation. The interface is straightforward to use, though it's not as refined as systems in luxury sedans at this price point.

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping information are available. The Hellcat earned a four-star overall rating from NHTSA in 2022, which is average for its class. The car's weight (over 4,400 pounds) and performance focus mean it's not designed with safety as the primary concern.

Handling, braking, and track capability

The Charger Hellcat uses a rear-wheel-drive platform with independent double-wishbone suspension in front and a multi-link setup in back. It's tuned for performance, not comfort—you'll feel every bump in the road, especially on rough pavement. The steering is responsive and direct, and the car grips well in corners when pushed hard. However, it's a heavy sedan (4,400+ pounds), so it doesn't feel as nimble as lighter sports cars.

Braking is handled by Brembo six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers with 15.75-inch rotors up front. The stopping power is excellent, and the brakes can handle repeated hard stops on a track without fading. The Hellcat comes with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, which are track-focused and provide excellent grip but wear quickly if you drive aggressively.

Dodge offers a Hellcat-specific track package that includes launch control, line-lock (which locks the front brakes for burnouts), and a performance data recorder that logs your lap times and acceleration. These features are fun on a closed course but have no practical use on public roads. The car is genuinely capable on a track, but it's also a four-door sedan, so it's not as focused as a dedicated sports car.

Reliability and common issues

The 2022 Charger Hellcat is relatively new, so long-term reliability data is limited. However, the supercharged 6.2L engine has been in production since 2015, and it's proven to be durable when maintained properly. The main reliability concern is the supercharger itself—it's a complex component with many moving parts, and repairs can be expensive if something goes wrong. Dodge covers the powertrain with a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty, which is standard for the industry.

Common issues reported by owners include transmission shudder (a hesitation when shifting), occasional electrical gremlins, and premature tire wear due to the car's weight and performance focus. Some owners have experienced issues with the infotainment system freezing or losing connectivity. These are not widespread problems, but they're worth knowing about if you're considering a used 2022 model.

Maintenance costs are higher than a standard sedan because of the supercharger and performance components. Oil changes are more frequent, and parts like spark plugs, filters, and brake pads are more expensive. A full service at a Dodge dealership typically costs $300 to $500, compared to $150 to $250 for a standard sedan. Over the life of the car, maintenance could easily exceed $5,000 to $8,000.

Comparing the Hellcat to alternatives

The main competitors are the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (a two-door coupe with 650 hp), the Cadillac CTS-V (a four-door sedan with 640 hp), and the Dodge Challenger R/T Hellcat (the two-door muscle car version). The Charger Hellcat is unique because it's the only four-door sedan with over 790 horsepower. If you want four doors and maximum power, it's your only option in this segment.

The Camaro ZL1 is faster in a straight line and more nimble in corners, but it's a two-seater with a tiny back seat and trunk. The CTS-V is more refined and luxurious, but it's more expensive (starting around $85,000) and less powerful. The Challenger R/T Hellcat is cheaper (starting around $65,000) and equally powerful, but it's a two-door coupe with worse visibility and a smaller back seat.

If you don't need 797 horsepower, the Dodge Charger R/T (with 370 hp) or Charger Scat Pack (with 485 hp) offer better fuel economy and lower operating costs while still providing genuine performance. These are more practical daily drivers and cost significantly less to insure and maintain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a manual transmission in the 2022 Charger Hellcat?

Yes, but only on the base Hellcat model, not the Redeye. The 6-speed Tremec manual was available at no extra cost. However, the 8-speed automatic is faster in acceleration tests and smoother in traffic, so most buyers chose it. If you're shopping for a used 2022 Hellcat, manuals are rarer and may hold value slightly better with enthusiasts.

How much does insurance cost for a 2022 Charger Hellcat?

Insurance typically ranges from $2,000 to $3,500 per year for a driver in their 30s with a clean record, depending on location and coverage limits. Younger drivers or those with accidents will pay significantly more. Some insurers charge extra for high-performance vehicles or require special coverage. Get quotes from multiple insurers before buying, as rates vary widely.

Is the 2022 Charger Hellcat reliable?

The supercharged 6.2L engine has a solid track record since 2015, and the Hellcat comes with a three-year, 36,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, the supercharger is complex and expensive to repair if something fails. Maintenance costs are higher than standard sedans due to frequent oil changes and performance components. Long-term reliability data for the 2022 model is still limited.

What's the difference between the Hellcat and the Redeye?

The Redeye adds 25 horsepower (822 hp total), a wider body, more aggressive styling, and a slightly stiffer suspension. It's roughly $8,000 more expensive. The Redeye is faster in a straight line and looks more aggressive, but both are extremely quick. For most drivers, the base Hellcat offers all the performance you'll ever need.

How much does a 2022 Charger Hellcat cost used?

Used 2022 Hellcats typically sell for $60,000 to $75,000 depending on mileage, condition, and whether it's a base model or Redeye. Prices have remained relatively stable because they're still relatively new and highly sought after by enthusiasts. Mileage matters more on a performance car—a Hellcat with 20,000 miles will cost more than one with 40,000 miles.