Electric Who? Charger Daytona Goes Full Throttle with Gas

The Dodge Charger Daytona’s debut as an electric muscle car made waves, sparking online debates, speculations, and a whirlwind of mixed reactions. The model, with its bold pseudo-exhaust sound designed to mimic the classic muscle car roar, turned heads and divided enthusiasts. For some, it was a glimpse into a thrilling, sustainable future for muscle cars. For others, it felt like the beginning of the end for true internal combustion engines (ICE) in American performance cars. However, recent reports suggest Dodge may be making a move to appease the purists by fast-tracking a gas-powered “sixpack” version of the Charger Daytona. Here’s everything we know about this upcoming ICE powerhouse and how it fits into Dodge’s strategy.

Listening to the Fans: ICE “Sixpack” Version on the Fast Track

MoparInsiders, a respected source within the automotive community, recently reported that Dodge is expediting production of an ICE variant of the Charger Daytona, internally referred to as the “sixpack.” Originally scheduled for a late-2025 release, the ICE Charger Daytona is now set to hit the market in early summer 2025—five months ahead of schedule. This acceleration in development signals Dodge’s response to high consumer demand for a gas-powered option amid the broader push toward electric vehicles (EVs).

Dodge’s decision to introduce the ICE model sooner indicates that the brand is not ready to fully relinquish its legacy of gasoline-driven muscle. The move acknowledges the ongoing market desire for the visceral, raw driving experience associated with traditional muscle cars, which EVs, despite their advantages, have yet to fully replicate.

Why an Electric Muscle Car?

When Dodge first introduced the Charger Daytona EV concept, the car showcased several innovations, including a “Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust” that simulated a muscle car's deep, aggressive sound, intending to give fans a sensory experience similar to that of ICE engines. The Fratzonic exhaust was meant to bridge the gap between EV technology and the auditory excitement of gasoline engines. Dodge’s vision was clear: to prove that EVs could deliver a thrilling performance experience.

Still, reception to the Charger Daytona EV was mixed. Some applauded Dodge for taking a bold step forward, while others expressed disappointment, feeling that an electric Charger didn’t align with the brand’s muscle car heritage. The decision to fast-track an ICE version shows that Dodge has been carefully listening to its community, especially those who felt that the Charger’s legacy shouldn’t end with a battery and artificial sound effects.

The 2025 Charger Daytona “Sixpack”: What We Know So Far

The term “sixpack” may evoke a sense of nostalgia among muscle car enthusiasts, harking back to Dodge’s powerful high-performance engines of the past. While specific technical details on the 2025 Charger Daytona “sixpack” have not been released, it’s widely expected that the engine will be a high-output V6, likely turbocharged or supercharged to deliver the kind of power that Charger fans expect. Unfortunately for V8 fans, this report indicates that Dodge is unlikely to release a V8 version, although, as with anything in the car world, surprises are always possible.

Key Anticipated Features of the Charger Daytona Sixpack:

• Engine: Expected high-output V6, potentially turbocharged or supercharged.
• Performance: Anticipated to deliver power figures that align with Dodge’s muscle car heritage, providing a robust alternative for those not yet ready to embrace EVs.
• Release Date: Early Summer 2025, five months ahead of the original schedule.
• Legacy Design: Preserving the classic Charger Daytona look and feel, likely featuring bold styling that pays homage to its predecessors.

A Dual-Path Strategy: Appeasing Both EV and ICE Enthusiasts

The Charger Daytona EV will still likely debut before the ICE version, allowing Dodge to introduce both electric and gas-powered models in close succession. This dual-path strategy is a clever move by Dodge, aiming to satisfy the wide-ranging preferences within the muscle car community. Dodge understands that EV technology is the future, but it’s also aware that ICE enthusiasts want their moment in the sun as well, even as regulations and market forces push toward electrification.

By releasing both versions, Dodge is strategically positioning itself to address a broader customer base: from EV-forward consumers who appreciate the sustainability benefits and modern technology of electric models to traditionalists who prioritize the sound, power, and familiarity of an ICE engine. This approach not only strengthens Dodge’s market presence but also reinforces its commitment to performance, regardless of the fuel source.

What This Means for Muscle Car Culture and the Industry

The fast-tracked Charger Daytona “sixpack” could represent a last hurrah for gasoline-powered American muscle cars. Dodge is one of the few brands left prioritizing performance-oriented ICE vehicles in the face of global shifts toward zero-emission vehicles. The Charger Daytona “sixpack” is more than just a model—it’s a statement that Dodge is committed to preserving the essence of American performance for as long as possible.

But how will the Charger Daytona ICE fare against its EV sibling? While the electric model will likely deliver excellent acceleration, the ICE version offers something the EV can’t fully replicate: the sensory immersion that comes with a roaring engine, real exhaust, and that classic muscle car aura. For muscle car enthusiasts, that experience remains irreplaceable.

Will the ICE Charger Daytona Sway Sales?

The big question is whether this move will translate into higher sales for the Charger Daytona lineup. With an ICE model in the mix, Dodge is giving car buyers a choice, and that choice may broaden the Charger Daytona’s appeal. For buyers who love the concept of a high-performance muscle car but are hesitant about going electric, the sixpack could be the perfect compromise.

What’s Next for Dodge?

Dodge’s dual approach demonstrates a practical understanding of market demand. As the automotive landscape shifts, traditional brands like Dodge are tasked with balancing the future of EVs with the legacy of ICE. Moving forward, it will be fascinating to see if Dodge continues to expand its ICE lineup or if this is a one-time response to customer demand.

The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona “sixpack” shows that Dodge hasn’t forgotten its roots, even as it steps into an electric future. By fast-tracking the ICE version, Dodge is making a statement to its loyal fanbase: that while EVs might be the future, there’s still room in the garage for a gas-powered muscle car. For now, it seems that fans of both EVs and ICE engines have reason to celebrate, and the Charger Daytona lineup promises to offer a powerful, thrilling option for every kind of driver. Whether the electric or gas-powered Charger Daytona will ultimately prevail remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure—Dodge is going full throttle into the future, and it’s bringing its legacy along for the ride.