Jeep, Chrysler, And Dodge SRT: What It Means And 10 Of The Best SRT Cars

The letters ‘SRT’ hold special meaning for thrill-seeking drivers. If you’re wondering what it is, SRT stands for Street and Racing Technology, and its origins go back to 1989, when “Team Viper” was created to develop the Dodge Viper. However, the first production vehicle to wear the SRT badge came many years later, in the form of the 2003 Dodge Viper SRT-10. Since its inception, the SRT branding has continued to embody a philosophy that purses raw power, track-capable handling, and a flamboyant style that only Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler vehicles can accomplish well.

Over the years, SRT has become synonymous with high-performance engineering and exhilarating driving experiences, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive world. To get a better sense of what SRT has done for the automotive landscape, let’s look at ten of the greatest SRT-branded performers. From street-ready performers that crave track-day thrills to practical, yet high-performance vehicles with an extra dose of adrenaline, there are plenty of SRT options out there.

1 Dodge Ram SRT-10

Who said a pickup truck couldn’t be a performance machine? The Dodge Ram SRT-10 answered that question with a resounding roar, borrowing the Viper’s 8.3-liter V10 engine and shoehorning it into a pickup truck body. The result was a mind-blowing 500 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque in a vehicle not typically associated with supercar performance. It could rocket from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, making it the fastest production pickup truck of its time. Throughout its run between 2004 and 2006, the Ram SRT-10 was a testament to SRT’s ability to push the boundaries of performance in unexpected ways, creating a truly unique and exhilarating driving experience.

2 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170

Purpose-built for drag racing domination, the Challenger SRT Demon remains an automotive monster, and it reached its most potent form with the SRT Demon 170. When running on an E85 ethanol blend, this coupe produces EV-like outputs of 1,025 hp and 945 lb-ft of torque. That results in a 0-60 mph time of 1.66 seconds and more G-force acceleration than any other production car. However, those figures do require a rollout and a prepped surface. Its quarter-mile time is just as insane; at 8.91 seconds, this time was certified by the National Hot Rod Association. Not only is its performance unmatched, but the SRT Demon 170’s 6.2L supercharged V8 makes an intoxicating noise.

3 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat

The Charger SRT Hellcat took the practicality of a four-door sedan and infused it with the heart of a supercar. Its supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, dubbed the “Hellcat” engine, produces a staggering 797 hp and 707 lb-ft in Redeye guise. This monstrous powerplant propels the Charger from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, and the sedan covers the quarter-mile in only 10.6 seconds. But the Hellcat isn’t just about straight-line speed; it also has upgraded brakes, suspension, and tires to deliver impressive handling and grip. Like the Challenger SRT Hellcat, the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye is seen as a classic among the SRT community. Dodge later released an SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody model with 807 hp, as part of the Jailbreak selection of powerful Dodge muscle cars.

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Every Hellcat-Powered Car Ranked By 0-60 MPH Times

Obviously, the Demon 170 is the quickest.

4 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

Although not overtly badged as an SRT model, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk featured various bits from the performance division, most notavly the supercharged V8. This unassuming SUV boasts 707 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds with a top speed of 180 mph. It wasn’t just fast in a straight line, either; the Trackhawk also featured a performance-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and an all-wheel-drive system that allowed it to carve corners with surprising agility. Last on sale for the 2021 model year, the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk was a testament to SRT’s ability to push the boundaries of performance in unexpected ways, proving that an SUV could be both practical and incredibly fast.

5 Chrysler 300C SRT-8

Going back nearly 20 years, the Chrysler 300C SRT-8 was the epitome of a sleeper car, its understated elegance concealing a beastly heart. Under the hood lurked a 6.1L Hemi V8 engine, churning out 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse engineering propelled the 300C SR-8 from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans of its time. The SRT8 treatment didn’t stop at the engine, though; the 2006 300C SRT-8 received upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and a sport-tuned exhaust, all while maintaining the 300C’s luxurious interior and comfortable ride. Front to back, the 300C SRT-8 was a true wolf in sheep’s clothing, offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and stealth.

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6 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

Like the other SRT Dodge cars on our list, the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat remains a testament to SRT’s ability to inject performance DNA into the most unexpected places. This three-row SUV can accommodate seven people, and its supercharged 6.2L V8 will get them to their destination shockingly quickly. This results in similarly-impressive power, with a staggering 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful SUV ever produced. Plus, the Durango SRT Hellcat can launch from 0 to 60 mph in a mind-boggling 3.5 seconds and even tow up to 8,700 pounds.

7 Dodge Viper SRT-10

Next up, the Dodge Viper SRT-10 is a legendary sports car known for its breathtaking performance and distinctive design. Equipped with a V10 engine, the Viper SRT-10 delivers an astounding 500 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque, ensuring an exhilarating drive. This high-performance machine made a significant impact on the sports car segment, setting new standards for speed and agility. Its aerodynamic design, combined with a lightweight chassis, allows the Viper to slice through the air with ease. The Viper’s long hood and side exhausts give it a menacing appearance, while the interior is all about driver focus with minimal distractions and maximum control. Although no longer in production, the Viper SRT-10’s legacy is cemented by its track performance and iconic status among car enthusiasts, showcasing the best of what SRT has to offer.

8 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8

Before the insane Trackhawk, there was the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8, the first SUV to wear the coveted SRT badge. Introduced in 2005, it featured a naturally aspirated 6.1-liter Hemi V8 engine producing 420 hp, propelling this SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Like its Trackhawk successor, the Grand Cherokee SRT-8 included a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and an active damping system for improved handling and agility. As seen by its specs, the Grand Cherokee SRT acted as a precursor to the Trackhawk’s forthcoming capabilities, solidifying Jeep as a versatile competitor with a new age of performance-based vehicles.

9 Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock

For those who live life a quarter-mile at a time, the Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock is the ultimate drag racing weapon. Built on the foundation of the Challenger Hellcat Redeye Widebody, the Super Stock received a host of upgrades designed to maximize straight-line acceleration. Its supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 was tweaked to produce 807 hp, and the car was fitted with lightweight 18-inch wheels wrapped in sticky drag radials. The suspension was also retuned for optimal weight transfer, and a unique rear axle ratio helped the Super Stock rocket off the line. Throughout its life span, this Dodge SRT car was built for one purpose: to dominate the drag strip.

10 Dodge Magnum SRT-8

One of the oldest SRT vehicles on our list, the Dodge Magnum SRT8 was a unique look into the world of performance-based supercars. Why? Largely because of its station wagon body style. But, don’t let appearances fool you, since the Magnum SRT-8 was a behemoth, with a 6.1L Hemi V8 engine that pumped out 425 hp and 420 lb-ft. of torque, making it capable of hitting 60 in just over five seconds. All the while, it offered ample cargo space and comfortable seating for up to five people. It was a car that defied categorization, a performance machine for those who needed practicality without sacrificing thrills. The Magnum SRT-8 was a testament to SRT’s ability to think outside the box and create vehicles that catered to a niche audience.

Here’s a summary of some of the best SRT-badged cars ever built: