Dodge Barracuda 2022: Rumors Suggest a Legendary Muscle Car Return
Stellantis has been relatively quiet regarding new performance models, aside from an electric Dodge Muscle car planned for 2024. However, whispers in the automotive world suggest a major shake-up: Dodge is rumored to be reviving one of the most iconic muscle cars ever created – the Barracuda. While the original Plymouth brand is long gone, the legendary ‘Cuda nameplate could return as a Dodge model, possibly targeting a Dodge Barracuda 2022 debut according to some speculation. Here’s a breakdown of what the rumors suggest.
Despite some recent reports indicating Dodge might phase out the pushrod V8 engine, the rumored Barracuda is expected to embody the spirit of a true old-school muscle car, much like its storied predecessor. Speculation suggests the new model could be roughly 250 pounds (113 kg) lighter than its key competitors.
Expected Platform: Lighter and More Agile
Many loyal MOPAR enthusiasts initially anticipated the Barracuda would utilize the same Mercedes-derived platform that has served Dodge’s Challenger and Charger models for over a decade. This platform also underpins the Chrysler 300C and the discontinued Dodge Magnum. However, current rumors point towards the Barracuda being based on the modern Giorgio platform. This strategic choice would mean the new Barracuda would be lighter and more compact than the current Challenger, making it not a direct replacement but rather a distinct offering. Furthermore, adopting the Giorgio platform suggests that MOPAR could finally deliver a vehicle renowned for its capabilities on a track, not just the drag strip. While the Giorgio platform offers performance benefits, Dodge is also exploring future directions, including the 2024 electric challenger.
Powertrain Possibilities: V8s Not Dead Yet?
Exciting news for performance fans: rumors suggest the V8 engine is far from dead for the potential new Barracuda. The ‘Cuda is expected to offer a range of three engine options, with the undisputed king being the venerable Hellcat 6.2-liter supercharged V8. This powerful pushrod engine is rumored to produce at least 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet (881 Nm) of torque. Mated to the latest iteration of the acclaimed ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, recently announced by ZF, the rumored ‘Cuda could potentially sprint from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in a scorching 3.1 seconds. A top speed reaching around 200 mph (322 km/h) is also being mentioned in the speculation. This high-performance variant appears to draw significant inspiration from the Dodge Challenger, mirroring the relationship between the third-generation ‘Cuda (1970-1974) and the Challenger of that era.
Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, potentially housing the rumored Hellcat V8 engine for the Barracuda
Front view of a Dodge Challenger, speculated to influence the design and powertrain options of the new Barracuda
For a mid-level offering, the ‘Cuda is rumored to feature the familiar 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This naturally-aspirated unit is anticipated to be paired with the company’s eTorque 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This combination would aim to provide a balance of respectable fuel economy alongside decent performance figures. It’s also speculated that the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, which also utilizes a similar mild-hybrid setup, hasn’t been entirely ruled out as another potential option.
Perhaps surprisingly to many, the Pentastar V6 might not serve as the base engine option. If the current whispers are accurate, the entry-level ‘Cuda could be specified with the 2.4-liter ‘Tiger Shark’ inline-four engine, featuring the Fiat-Chrysler-developed MultiAir2 intake system. This stands in contrast to upcoming electric muscle car efforts, such as the rumored 2024 dodge challenger electric car.
Speculated Design and Features
Details about the visual revival of the ‘Cuda remain scarce, but expectations point towards a retro-inspired design that cleverly incorporates modern elements. Rumored features include sleek LED lights, a thin grille, and a prominent front bumper housing large air intakes. Inside the cabin, significant influence from the Dodge Challenger is anticipated, likely including the optional 8.4-inch infotainment screen complete with GPS navigation. The Barracuda is also rumored to be equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, though enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that these are expected to be switchable, perfect for unleashing the car’s potential for epic burnouts and donuts.
Interior view of a Dodge Challenger, potentially reflecting rumored cabin features for the Barracuda
Rumors of Prior Reveal
Further fueling the anticipation, reports indicate that the car has potentially already been unveiled behind closed doors at a dealers-only event. This suggests the Dodge Barracuda is not just a concept but may have reached a near-production stage. In fact, there’s speculation that the Barracuda was initially intended to debut in 2018 instead of the Hellcat RedEye, but plans shifted due to the RedEye’s anticipated success. This time around, it seems the rumors for the Barracuda’s arrival are gaining stronger traction.
Projected Pricing and Competition
SRT Barracuda concept rendering, offering a glimpse of potential design direction for the new model
Should the rumors hold true, the new Dodge Barracuda would enter a competitive market, going head-to-head with established rivals like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. Both these models currently have starting prices below $27,000. Given that the Barracuda nameplate historically belonged to Plymouth – a brand positioned below Dodge within the Chrysler hierarchy – there’s speculation that the base price for the new Barracuda could land somewhere around $25,000. However, it’s worth noting that the competing Mustang and Camaro offer turbocharged inline-four engines delivering around 300 horsepower (over 300 for the Mustang), which would make the rumored 2.4-liter ‘Tiger Shark’ engine in the base Barracuda appear significantly outgunned by comparison.
The top-tier version, expected to feature the potent 6.2-liter Supercharged V8 engine, is rumored to start in the ballpark of $60,000. However, a full official options list would be needed to get a clearer picture of just how high the price could climb with various configurations. Nevertheless, the prospect of the Barracuda name making a comeback is undoubtedly an exciting one for muscle car enthusiasts. Let’s hope the revival stays true to its roots and doesn’t veer into unexpected territory, like perhaps a hybrid crossover – ahem, unlike the Mach-E. This anticipation is set against the backdrop of Dodge’s stated move towards electrification, as seen with projects like the all electric dodge charger. As always with automotive rumors, it’s wise to approach this information with a degree of caution, but rest assured, we will provide updates on any further developments concerning the Dodge Barracuda 2022 and beyond.
In summary, rumors offer an intriguing glimpse into a potential return of the Dodge Barracuda for the 2022 timeframe or shortly thereafter. Speculation suggests a modern muscle car built on the Giorgio platform, lighter than its competitors, and offering a range of powertrain options from a potent Hellcat V8 to a more fuel-efficient inline-four. While details on design and exact pricing are still emerging, the prospect of the ‘Cuda nameplate back in the Dodge lineup is generating considerable buzz among automotive enthusiasts. As always, staying tuned for official announcements from Stellantis will be key.
