Dodge plans performance Magnum, Charger, and new V10.

DaimlerChrysler will continue to push performance with its Dodge brand, adding a high-performance version of the Magnum to its lineup, pulling a Charger sedan off the same platform, and possibly expanding the Hemi V8 to ten cylinders for the next Viper and a top-of-the-line Chrysler sedan based on the LX platform.

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Inside sources say the Hemi in the Magnum and Charger SRT 8s will be expanded to 6.1 liters, and produce more than 420 hp. The five-speed automatic will carry over, as will the all-wheel-drive system currently offered on the Magnum RT. Reportedly, larger wheels and tires, Brembo brakes, and a revised electronic stability program will round out the mechanical changes. A more aggressive front fascia, grille, the addition of a rear spoiler and unique paint colors will distinguish the SRT 8 from its more pedestrian brothers.

The same pieces also will be used in an SRT 8 version of the forthcoming Charger sedan. That vehicle will share the full-size LX platform on which the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum are built, but none of the sheetmetal. The Charger will jettison the V6 engines offered in the Magnum and 300 in favor of a Hemi-only powertrain. Front and rear bucket seats are under consideration as an option, though a folding rear bench capable of carrying three passengers will be available standard. These performance seats also may be shared with the Magnum SRT 8, as will other interior touches like gauge graphics and trim.

Also in the pipeline is a Hemi-based V10 design study that arose out of concern about Ford's Modular V8-based ten cylinder, the effect of tighter emissions and Fuel economy standards on the Viper's massive V10, and persistent rumors that GM is investigating a similar engine for use in the Corvette. Insiders say the proposed ten-cylinder Hemi would be significantly smaller and lighter than the current Viper powerplant, be adaptable for use in the Ram pickup, and have standard cylinder deactivation. It also would support a V10-powered luxury sedan based on the LX platform. With a standard Hemi V8 and optional Hemi V10, Chrysler insiders are betting that the rumored sedan would not only steer clear of Mercedes' V12 5-Class flagship, it would offer DaimlerChrysler a vehicle that could compete with VW's Phaeton and GM's expected V12 Cadillac. Placed in the Dodge Charger, the engine also would give Chrysler a less expensive, all-American answer to BMW's 2006 M5 V10. And, when tuned for a broad torque curve, the engine could be made to be nearly as frugal as the current Hemi V8.--CAS