The Renowned Hellcat is Giving Way to the Hurricane Engine for the 2025 Ram 1500 TRX

Photo Source: Stellantis

In the automotive world, change is inevitable. The supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine, known as the Hellcat, has been a beloved power plant option for several performance enthusiasts. However, its reign is coming to an end. The 2024 model year represents its final cheer, with the Ram 1500 TRX being the last vehicle to receive this formidable engine. However, enthusiasts do not need to fear, as the Ram 1500 TRX will continue to live on with a new powertrain. 

Under the Hood

A spy video of the 2025 Ram TRX prototype was recently revealed, and the soundtrack of the vehicle lacks the traditional V-8 rumble. Instead, this TRX test vehicle sounds like it runs on a six-cylinder engine, with the Hurricane inline-six being the apparent choice. Readers must keep in mind that Stellantis’ Hurricane 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six is offered on the Jeep Wagoneer and the Grand Wagoneer. The engine is also expected to deliver extraordinary performance. 

This can also be had as a crate engine, with its most potent variant churning out 550 horsepower and generating 531 pound-feet of torque. Even though those figures are solid, they are still no match for the Hellcat supercharged V-8 engine’s 702 horsepower, so perhaps the 2025 Ram TRX will receive an even more powerful Hurricane inline-six. As for the gearbox, the TRX should inherit the eight-speed automatic transmission serving the Hurricane on the Jeep Wagoneer models. A key detail is that Stellantis’ head of global propulsion Micky Bly–while discussing the Hurricane–commented to Automotive News that “we have more power. We just haven’t released it yet.” 

The Shift to Electrification

This transition from a V-8 to an inline-six engine marks a change toward power optimization and efficiency. Even though details on the new engine’s specifications remain scarce, it is believed that the Hurricane will offer a potent combination of power and fuel efficiency. Indeed, while V-8 engines offer an ample power supply, their fuel efficiency numbers are low. According to Reuters, Stellantis is due to pay a potential $3 billion in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) fines under the proposed fuel economy standards through 2032. 

As such, replacing the iconic Hellcat engine is a bold move, but it reflects the changing landscape of the automotive industry. As stricter emissions standards and electrification become more prevalent, car manufacturers are exploring innovative ways to balance sustainability and performance. 

Ram 1500 TRX Versus Ford F-150 Raptor

The 2025 Ram TRX going down the six-cylinder route would put it on par with the Ford F-150 Raptor, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V-6-powered pickup truck provided with a starting price tag of $76,000 MSRP (Plus destination fee). Of course, it is also worth mentioning the TRX-inspired F-150 Raptor R, whose 700 horsepower 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 commands a price of approximately $110,000 MSRP (Plus destination fee).

Of note, Ram is not the only automaker expected to replace the Hellcat 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 with the Hurricane 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six, as the Dodge Challenger and Charger are also expected to be updated in this fashion, being offered alongside the upcoming 2024 Charger Daytona electric vehicle that is on track to becoming the first-ever electric muscle car. 

Speaking of electric vehicles, the Ram 1500 TRX with the new inline-six engine is expected to debut in the 2025 model year. Enthusiasts eagerly await more information about the power and capabilities of this new powertrain, which promises to continue the legacy of the TRX as a powerful off-road truck.

While the Hellcat might be winding down, this transition to a six-cylinder engine holds great promise for the Ram 1500 TRX. With the Hurricane under the hood, this pickup truck is poised to deliver exhilarating performance and improved efficiency, keeping it at the forefront of the market. If your interest is piqued by the infamous TRX powered by an adjusted six-cylinder engine, please visit Miami Lakes Automall. After all, we know what it takes to provide a worthwhile experience. Allow us the pleasure of helping you today.