Key Takeaways
- Dodge Direct Connection HurriCrate engines are finally available in Cat 1 and Cat 3 guises.
- Cat 1 offers 420 horsepower/468 lb-ft of torque, while Cat 3 produces 550 hp/531 lb-ft.
- A Cat X version with approximately 1,000 hp is also in the cards.
Dodge has announced the new Direct Connection HurriCrate series engines are finally available, offering customers plenty of power and performance for not much outlay. Two states of tune are available, the Cat 1 and the Cat 3, both developing respectable amounts of power despite their relatively small displacement.
The HurriCrate Cat 1 produces 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. This motor is derived from the same one that does duty in the Jeep Wagoneer, where it provides the full-size SUV with strong acceleration. 0-60 mph estimates are around 5.5 seconds, so you can imagine how rapid progress would be in something smaller and sportier.
Up To 550 HP From The HurriCrate Cat 3 Engine
For those seeking more power, the HurriCrate Cat 3 (which produces 183 hp per liter) offers a healthy 550 horses and 531 lb-ft of torque – not bad for a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. Dodge notes that this motor also powers the Direct Connection Grudge Race competitor’s race car. This engine can be found in the Grand Wagoneer. Both Hurricane Six powerplants are being used in the updated Ram 1500, with the beloved V8 gone for good.
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In production models, ‘Cat 1’ is referred to as the Standard Output version, while ‘Cat 3’ is known as the High Output variant. There are plans to put this motor in more vehicles, including the new Charger, which is currently only available as an electric muscle car. So what can you expect to pay for the new crate engines? Cat 1 has an MSRP of $10,495 while the more powerful Cat 3 commands $13,745. A Cat 1 Long Block is available at $7,995, while the Cat 3 Long Block will set you back $11,715.
“Direct Connection has played a key role in powering the Dodge brand’s reputation on the street and at the strip since its birth in 1974, and we continue to drive that legacy by introducing new Direct Connection products designed to deliver the extra tenth of performance that racers and enthusiasts seek. The Roadkill Nights Powered by Dodge Direct Connection Grudge Race will feature racers battling with new Direct Connection HurriCrate Cat 3 engines under the hood, proof that 50 years later Direct Connection is still serving as the go-to option for go-fast parts.”
– Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO
1,000-HP Hurricrate Cat X Motor On The Way
The Hurricrate engines were announced back in 2022. At the time, Dodge said it would also introduce a Hurricrate Cat X motor for race use. This powerplant will develop around 1,000 hp. While traditional hot-rodders may mourn the loss of a V8 growl, the Hurricrate engines show that individuals don’t have to sacrifice performance and power because of downsizing.
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Elsewhere, Dodge has also introduced new Charger Junior Roadster bodies. It’s a half-scale version of the NHRA Funny Car body, and features styling inspired by the new Charger Six Pack (due in dealerships next year). Built for kids aged 5-17, the body weighs less than 30 lbs and fits a chassis with an 85.5-inch wheelbase. The Junior Roadster body costs $3,765. Getting back to the Hurricrate engines, they have the potential to create something fast and efficient, be it an off-road build, a drift car, or a modernized classic muscle car. What car would you put the Hurricrate engine in? Let us know in the comments below.
