2027 Dodge Charger Super Bee: A New Era for the Iconic Nameplate
The 2027 Dodge Charger Super Bee has been unveiled, marking a significant shift for the model that has historically been associated with powerful V-8 engines. This new iteration features a 600-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, making it the first Super Bee to lack a V-8 under the hood. The Charger nameplate has been in production for six decades, with the original model debuting in 1966, but the Super Bee moniker has now evolved to fit the modern six-cylinder platform.
Performance and Engineering Upgrades
Both Car and Driver and MotorTrend confirm that the Super Bee's engine has been upgraded from the existing 550-hp SixPack to 600 hp, with the same 531 lb-ft of torque. The power increase comes from larger 56mm Garrett turbochargers, which provide over 30 psi of boost and shift peak torque to 3,000 rpm from 3,500 rpm. Dodge claims the Super Bee will accelerate to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds, which is 0.3 and 0.4 seconds faster than the current SixPack Scat Pack.
MotorTrend notes that the Super Bee's cooling system has been significantly enhanced, with 50% more coolant on the high-temperature side and double the amount on the low-temperature side compared to the Scat Pack. The front fascia has been redesigned to allow 30% more airflow over the radiator, and two auxiliary radiators have been added to improve brake cooling. These upgrades are critical for maintaining performance during extended track use.
Track-Focused Features
The Super Bee includes several new features aimed at enhancing track performance. The braking system features 16-inch Brembo rotors with six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear units, offering 27% more brake pad surface area than the Scat Pack. The suspension system has been upgraded with new CDC dual-valve adaptive dampers, stiffer bushings, and a 20% stiffer rear anti-roll bar to reduce understeer.
Both sources confirm the inclusion of Track and Drag modes, which allow drivers to optimize the car's performance for specific driving conditions. The Super Bee also features a rear-wheel-drive mode activated via a steering-wheel-mounted button, a feature not available on previous Charger models. Additionally, the optional Cosworth Drive Experience Recorder captures video, audio, and performance data during track sessions.
Design and Interior
The Super Bee Launch Edition will be available in three color schemes: Sucker Punch yellow-green with gloss-black accents, Diamond Black with Sucker Punch decals, and Shady gray with gloss-black graphics. All models feature Hyper Lime brake calipers, cloth seats with bee-themed headrest logos, and Sour Lemon interior stitching. The interior also includes a new steering wheel with prominent paddle shifters and a Super Bee badge on the instrument panel.
Why This Matters
The Super Bee's introduction represents a strategic shift for Dodge as it moves away from traditional V-8 engines toward high-performance six-cylinder powertrains. This change addresses the growing demand for more efficient yet powerful vehicles while maintaining the brand's performance heritage. The cooling and braking upgrades ensure that the Super Bee can handle the demands of track driving, making it a compelling option for enthusiasts who want both daily drivability and track capability.
What Remains Uncertain
While both sources confirm the engine specifications and key performance upgrades, the exact pricing and release date remain unknown. MotorTrend suggests a price of around $80,000, but this is not confirmed by Car and Driver. The production volume for the Launch Edition is also unspecified, though Dodge has indicated it will be limited.
Key Takeaways
- The 2027 Super Bee is the first model in the series without a V-8 engine, featuring a 600-hp twin-turbo inline-six.
- Key performance upgrades include enhanced cooling, braking, and suspension systems.
- The Launch Edition will be available in three exclusive color schemes with unique design elements.
- Pricing and release details are pending official announcement.