2019 Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye: When 797HP Just Isn't Enough
Dodge's relentless horsepower war reaches new heights with the 2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye, a street-legal beast that inherits the Demon's heart while adding surprising daily drivability. We put this 797-horsepower muscle car through its paces to see if it lives up to the legacy.
Redeye by the Numbers
Engine
Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8
Horsepower
797 HP @ 6,300 RPM
Torque
707 lb-ft @ 4,500 RPM
0-60 MPH
3.4 seconds
1/4 Mile
10.8s @ 131mph (Widebody)
Top Speed
203 MPH
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Demon DNA in a More Practical Package
While limited to just 3,300 units, the Challenger SRT Demon's legacy lives on in the Redeye through:
- Same supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 core architecture
- Advanced charge cooling system using A/C refrigerant
- High-flow fuel system with dual fuel pumps
- Strengthened drivetrain components
The key difference comes in the dual-scoop hood that replaces the Demon's massive single intake, trading 11 horsepower for better high-speed stability and that 203 mph top speed capability.
Driving Experience: Brutal Yet Surprisingly Civilized
Behind the wheel, the Redeye delivers contradictions at every turn:
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Strengths
- Devastating acceleration in any gear
- Surprisingly compliant ride quality
- Excellent visibility for a modern muscle car
- Uconnect infotainment remains best in class
- Actual usable back seats and trunk
Weaknesses
- Numb steering feedback
- Brakes work hard to slow 4,500+ lbs
- Constant exhaust drone on highway
- Tramlining with Widebody tires
- 13/22/16 mpg with $1,700 gas guzzler tax
How It Compares to the Competition
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| Model | Horsepower | 0-60 MPH | Starting Price | Practicality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Challenger Hellcat Redeye | 797 HP | 3.4s | $72,745 | Excellent |
| 2019 Mustang Shelby GT500 | 760 HP | 3.3s | $73,995 | Good |
| 2019 Camaro ZL1 1LE | 650 HP | 3.5s | $69,995 | Poor |
| 2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat | 717 HP | 3.6s | $61,745 | Excellent |
Pricing and Configurations
The Redeye commands a significant premium over the standard Hellcat:
- Base Hellcat Redeye: $72,745 (includes $1,700 gas guzzler tax)
- Widebody Package: Adds $6,000 (305mm tires, flared fenders)
- Fully Loaded Example: $87,000+ (Leather, carbon fiber, tech)
While expensive for a Challenger, it undercuts European performance cars with similar power by $50,000+.
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Final Verdict: The Ultimate Street Muscle Car
The 2019 Challenger Hellcat Redeye successfully bridges the gap between the extreme Demon and daily-drivable Hellcat. It offers:
- Nearly Demon-level straight-line performance
- Improved cornering capability over previous models
- Practicality unmatched in the muscle car segment
- Head-turning presence with subtle Redeye badging
While purists might argue the Shelby GT500 or Camaro ZL1 are better track cars, neither can match the Redeye's combination of brutal acceleration, daily comfort, and old-school muscle car charisma.
