What is a hemi engine? Why is it being discontinued?

The Hemi engine has become synonymous with power and long-lasting durability. However, 2023 marks one of the last years that you can get a Hemi engine in your vehicle. Why is that, and what are some alternatives? Here at Bill Volz Westchester in Cortlandt, New York, we understand the importance of having a powerful engine to get the job done. That’s why we created this guide that can answer some of your lingering questions and explore alternatives to the traditional Hemi engine.

What Is a Hemi Engine?

Stellantis vehicles, most notably the Dodge, Ram, and Jeep vehicles, have offered different engine packages for years. This includes the robust Hemi engine offered on certain models and higher trim options. So, what is a Hemi engine, and why has it been the pinnacle of power and durability for years?

Dating back to 1901, the Hemi engine is a super-efficient hemispherical combustion engine that engineers designed to burn the entire amount of gas in the cylinder. This results in a higher kinetic energy potential because it builds compression in the cylinder instead of letting gas and heat escape, as with other more traditional engine options.

Many engines dissipate much of their potential energy as heat because they don’t burn all the gas in the cylinder or aren’t able to fully encapsulate this energy build-up in the cylinder alone. The Hemi’s efficient compression results in more combustion and energy output, thereby creating an engine capable of more torque and horsepower.

Why Is It Being Discontinued?

As federal emissions laws change and become more restrictive, the Hemi engine is unlikely to make the cut. The general public and the automotive industry are pushing for more renewable or green energy options for vehicles, which can be seen in the rise of hybrid and fully electric vehicles. This has swayed legislation to move toward rules that support this rise, which in turn negatively impacts the gas-powered side of the automotive industry. Because the Hemi is a gas engine, this affects this powertrain as well.

In addition to non-sympathetic legislation, energy innovations have resulted in many newer powertrains rapidly approaching the Hemi’s capabilities. With the potential for these engines to ultimately surpass the Hemi’s performance, Dodge and Stellantis have opted to discontinue this engine option after the final production of the 2023 model year.

This final model year has also resulted in the creation of several “last call” models that are going to be the final chance for buyers to purchase models with the Hemi engine. Dodge plans to have seven different last call models, three of which are Dodge Chargers, and the other four are to be Dodge Challengers. The trims for these last call options are likely to have “Special Edition” in their name and bring back many beloved favorite features from past iterations, such as the Shakedown and Black Ghost upgrade options.

What Vehicles Does This Affect?

There are several makes and models that this eventual Hemi replacement will affect. In the Dodge lineup, this will largely impact the Challenger and Charger models, making the 2023 lineup the last run for these two renowned muscle cars. Others include the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat trim, which is also going to feel the brunt of this change.

Ram is another model to be impacted by this shift, as the Ram 1500 higher-end trims have historically had the Hemi engine option for many years. Finally, looking at Jeep, the higher end Jeep Grand Cherokee model is also going to eventually source a new powerhouse engine to help it navigate those off-road trails. Finishing out the list is the Chrysler 300C. With its sleek lines and powerful Hemi engine, it’ll be the culmination of Chrysler’s 300 series legacy.

What Is Going To Replace the Hemi Engine?

So, the next question is, what’s next? What engine are manufacturers planning to deliver in order to match the impressive power and performance of the Hemi? Ram and Jeep are set to replace the Hemi V-8 with a twin-turbocharged Hurricane six-cylinder engine. In addition to being a short-term replacement for the Hellcat, this engine offers between 420 and 510 horsepower, making it an almost equal replacement to the drool-worthy Hemi engine.

There are to be two variations of this engine, with one focusing on fuel economy that’s being built with the daily driver in mind. The other is more focused on delivering powerful performance that’s similar to the thrill that adrenaline seekers enjoyed in the Hemi engine. To get the higher end horsepower, car owners will need to opt for the high-output variation of this 3.0-liter engine, which is capable of producing 475 lb-ft of torque.

Once engine innovation has delivered a suitable fully electric vehicle (EV) replacement, the Hellcat will likely transition from this Hurricane engine to the EV choice. This will deliver the power and performance they love without the extra environmental impact of a gas-guzzling engine. This battery-powered engine may also likely bleed into other Dodge models, bringing about a new age of powerful engine performance that may even rival that of the Hemi era.

Want To Get Your Own Hemi-Powered Vehicle Before They’re Gone?

The Hemi engine is making its way out of new Dodge, Ram, and Jeep cars after the close of the 2023 model year, which means that time is running out to join in on the legacy. Don’t miss your opportunity to put the legendary engine in your next vehicle. Helping you fuel the thrill of a lifetime is Bill Volz Westchester of Cortlandt, New York. Our team is ready to help you find that perfect Hemi vehicle, whether you want a sleek muscle car, rugged truck, or adventurous SUV.

If you want to get a first-hand feel of this monstrous engine, feel free to stop by, and our team will happily get you behind the wheel. Want to start your car-buying journey? Browse our extensive new vehicle inventory to find that perfect new car with the famous Hemi engine. We look forward to helping you out soon.

Photo Credit: Red Dodge Challenger Parked on Unpaved Road by Derwin Edwards is licensed with Pexels License

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