What the 2017 Dodge Charger Hellcat is and how it performs
The 2017 Dodge Charger Hellcat is a four-door muscle sedan powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces 707 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 196 mph. The engine runs on regular unleaded gasoline, though Dodge recommends 91-octane fuel for optimal performance.
This model year came in two transmission options: an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. Both versions send power to the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential. The Hellcat sits on a platform shared with other full-size Dodge sedans but with reinforced suspension and braking components to handle the engine's output.
Key Takeaways
- The 2017 Charger Hellcat produces 707 horsepower from a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine and reaches 60 mph in roughly 3.6 seconds.
- Fuel economy ranges from 13 to 14 mpg in city driving and 21 to 23 mpg on the highway, depending on transmission choice and driving conditions.
- The vehicle weighs approximately 4,450 pounds and requires premium fuel (91-octane or higher) for best performance, though regular unleaded is acceptable.
- Standard safety features include electronic stability control, traction control, and a backup camera, with additional options like adaptive cruise control available.
Engine specifications and fuel consumption
The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 is the defining feature of the Hellcat model. Dodge equipped it with an Eaton supercharger that forces air into the combustion chambers, creating the high horsepower output. The engine produces maximum torque across a wide rpm range, from 2,300 to 4,500 rpm, which contributes to its strong acceleration feel in everyday driving.
Fuel economy varies slightly between the automatic and manual transmissions. The eight-speed automatic achieves approximately 13 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. The six-speed manual returns roughly 14 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. These figures assume normal driving patterns; aggressive acceleration and highway speeds above 70 mph will lower fuel economy noticeably. The fuel tank holds 18.5 gallons, giving a typical highway range of around 390 miles on a full tank with the automatic transmission.
Dimensions, weight, and cargo space
The 2017 Charger Hellcat measures 200.3 inches long, 75.7 inches wide, and 59.8 inches tall. The wheelbase is 120.2 inches. The vehicle weighs 4,450 pounds in base configuration, making it one of the heavier four-door sedans on the market due to the reinforced frame and suspension needed for the engine's power.
The trunk provides 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which is typical for a full-size sedan. The rear seats do not fold, so cargo is limited to what fits in the trunk. The interior width at the rear seat is 56.3 inches, providing comfortable seating for two adults in back, though a third passenger is possible in a pinch.
Transmission and drivetrain options
Buyers could choose between two transmissions. The eight-speed automatic uses torque converter technology and includes paddle shifters for manual control. It handles the engine's power smoothly and is the more common choice for daily driving. The six-speed manual transmission offers a more direct connection to the engine and appeals to drivers who prefer controlling gear changes themselves.
Both transmissions feed power to a rear-wheel-drive layout with a limited-slip differential. This setup means the Hellcat does not have all-wheel drive. The limited-slip differential helps distribute power between the rear wheels during hard acceleration, reducing wheelspin compared to an open differential. Dodge also offered an electronic line-lock feature that allows the front brakes to lock while the rear wheels spin, useful for burnouts and launch control on the track.
Braking and suspension systems
The 2017 Hellcat uses Brembo four-wheel disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution. The front rotors measure 15.4 inches in diameter, and the rear rotors measure 13.8 inches. These larger brakes are necessary to stop the heavy, powerful sedan from high speeds. Brake fade—a loss of stopping power from overheating—is less likely than in standard Chargers due to the upgraded components.
The suspension uses a double-wishbone design in front and a multi-link independent setup in back. Dodge tuned the suspension specifically for the Hellcat to handle the engine's torque without excessive body roll. The ride height is slightly lower than standard Chargers. Adaptive dampers were not available on the 2017 model; suspension settings are fixed, though some owners add aftermarket adjustable coilovers for customization.
Safety features and technology
Standard safety equipment includes electronic stability control, traction control, and a backup camera. The stability control can be partially or fully disabled for track use, a feature Dodge built in specifically for performance driving. Anti-lock brakes come standard, along with brake information, which applies maximum braking force if the system detects an emergency stop.
The infotainment system uses an 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Uconnect, Dodge's proprietary system, handles climate control, navigation, and audio functions. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The 2017 model did not include forward collision warning or automatic emergency braking as standard features, though some competitors offered these by that year.
Exterior design and color options
The 2017 Charger Hellcat shares the basic body shape with other Charger models but adds distinctive visual elements. The hood features a functional air scoop to feed the supercharger. The front fascia is more aggressive, with larger air intakes. Dodge offered a "Hellcat" badge on the front fenders and trunk lid to distinguish it from standard Chargers.
Paint color options for 2017 included Pitch Black, Bright White, Granite Pearl, Destroyer Gray, Plum Crazy Purple, B5 Blue, Sublime Green, and Hemi Orange. The vehicle came standard with 20-inch wheels, with 21-inch options available. Brembo brake calipers were painted red as a visual indicator of the upgraded braking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 2017 Dodge Charger Hellcat cost?
The 2017 model had a starting price around $65,000 for the base Hellcat with the automatic transmission. Manual transmission versions and models with additional options cost more. Used 2017 Hellcats vary in price based on mileage and condition, typically ranging from $45,000 to $65,000 depending on the market.
Can the 2017 Charger Hellcat tow a trailer?
No, the 2017 Charger Hellcat is not rated for towing. Dodge does not provide a towing capacity for this model because the rear-wheel-drive sedan platform and suspension are not designed for trailer loads. The vehicle is intended for performance driving, not hauling.
What is the difference between the Hellcat and the regular Charger R/T?
The Hellcat uses a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 with 707 horsepower, while the R/T uses a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8 with 370 horsepower. The Hellcat accelerates significantly faster, has upgraded brakes and suspension, and costs substantially more. The R/T is more fuel-efficient and less expensive to maintain.
Does the 2017 Hellcat come with all-wheel drive?
No, the 2017 Charger Hellcat is rear-wheel drive only. Dodge did not offer an all-wheel-drive version of the Hellcat in 2017. The rear-wheel-drive setup contributes to the vehicle's performance characteristics and is part of the design philosophy for this model.
What type of fuel should I use in a 2017 Charger Hellcat?
Dodge recommends 91-octane fuel for optimal performance and engine longevity. Regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline is acceptable but may reduce horsepower slightly and increase engine knock under hard acceleration. Premium fuel (93-octane) can be used but offers no additional benefit over 91-octane.