Nature abhors a vacuum, and if reports are to be believed, the massive void left by Ford Performance Vehicles and HSV could be filled by a 2018 Chrysler 300 Hellcat.
According to Automotive News, the 300 is up for a refresh in 2019. Contrary to expectations, the rear-drive Giorgio platform used in the Alfa Romeo Giulia and expected for the next Dodge Charger will be eschewed in favour of a refreshed and lightened version of today’s LX platform.
Before that happens, the 527kW supercharged V8 from the Dodge Challenger and Charger Hellcat is expected to be fitted as a send-off. As those vehicles presently use the same platform, there won’t be any difficulty fitting it or the eight-speed automatic gearbox. This is said to be happening in late 2018.
Before then, Australia will get its first taste of that nuclear-grade engine in the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, that will propel it from 0-100km/h in 3.6 seconds on its way to a 290km/h top speed. It is tipped to land at around $120,000, but a 300 Hellcat could cost less due to the lack of all-wheel drive hardware.
While not confirmed for Australia, FCA’s local arm would no doubt be looking very closely at getting it here due to the large chasm left by the demise of FPV and HSV. If it came here, it could be the only high performance V8 sedan that is relatively affordable.