2024 Dodge Durango Hellcat Makes a Comeback While the Challenger and Charger Fade Away

In 2021, Dodge manufactured 3,000 units of the Durango Hellcat, each becoming a rare muscle vehicle that many believed would appreciate in value. Then, in 2022, Dodge brought back the Durango Hellcat for the 2023 model year, despite the initial declaration that no further units would be produced. This led customers to believe that the chapter on Dodge’s most powerful SUV had closed, but it appears that might not be the case. The Drive has reached out to Dodge for an official statement, and this article will be updated accordingly.

Upon the announcement of a second production run of Durango Hellcats, owners of the initial 3,000 units were outraged, as their once exclusive, one-year-only performance SUVs were expected to depreciate in value. One owner even initiated legal action against Dodge, arguing that the worth of their vehicle had diminished. While opinions on this situation may vary, one owner—referred to simply as Stacy—expressed their view a year ago:

“I felt compelled to take a stand, even if purely on principle. If asked about my desired resolution… it would simply be for them to honor their word and cease further production.”

Further complicating matters is the impending discontinuation of the Challenger and Charger Hellcats by the end of 2023. It’s disheartening to witness the demise of these two iconic models to make way for a high-performance SUV. Interestingly, Dodge reversed course on the Challenger Hellcat’s last year by reintroducing the manual transmission, initially declared obsolete.

Dodge’s CEO, Tim Kuniskis, mentioned in an interview with Automotive News that the Durango Hellcat isn’t a vehicle customers purchase for its investment potential. They buy it out of desire. “We’re not in a competition regarding pricing, value, fuel efficiency, and similar aspects,” stated Kuniskis. “It’s a matter of ‘I want a Durango or I don’t,’ and that’s how we establish a unique standing in the market segment.”

Official pricing for 2024 hasn’t been disclosed, but the 2023 Durango Hellcat had a starting price of $95,200. While the production quantity for the 2024 models remains unconfirmed, one may question its significance at this juncture. Until a new generation of the Durango is unveiled, the possibility of additional Hellcat model years lingers, showcasing Dodge’s struggle to determine a stopping point.

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