The Mopar Junkie is a dedicated channel for enthusiasts of Mopar, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, and Ram vehicles. Leveraging extensive experience as an automotive spy photographer and journalist, this channel provides exclusive industry insights and the latest news on these iconic automotive brands. Content ranges from in-depth vehicle reviews and breaking news to behind-the-scenes looks at automotive photography and detailed unboxings of diecast models, catering to both classic car lovers and modern truck aficionados.
Stellantis Unleashes 324 Horsepower Hurricane4 Turbo I4
Stellantis has officially unveiled its new 2.0-liter turbocharged Hurricane4 engine, a significant departure from its predecessor, the GME-T4. This engine, developed from a clean-sheet design, boasts 324 horsepower and 332 foot-pounds of torque, achieving an impressive 162 horsepower per liter. A...
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Fiat Topolino Is Officially Coming to America
Fiat is officially bringing its micro-EV, the Topolino, to the United States. While not considered a traditional car but rather a quadricycle, this Eu... moreropean model, built in Morocco, offers a unique, open-air experience distinct from its Opel Rocks and Citroen Ami counterparts. The Topolino is exceptionally small, even smaller than a Fiat 500, measuring only eight feet long. Its appeal in Europe lies in its compact size, allowing easy parking, and its affordability, costing around €9,900. A key differentiator, particularly in France, is that individuals as young as 14 can drive it without a license. However, the reviewer notes significant limitations for the US market: a top speed of only 28 mph and a range of just 45.5 miles, attributed to its small 5.5 kWh battery. The interior is described as plasticky with minimal features, relying on a phone for audio. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer suggests a niche market in the US, targeting retirement communities, coastal neighborhoods, resort towns, college campuses, and downtown areas with controlled traffic, positioning it as a golf cart alternative. The reviewer expresses skepticism about its ability to save the struggling Fiat brand in the US, suggesting it's more of an experiment and that a larger model like the potential Fiat Grande Panda might be more impactful. less
Live This Afternoon: EU Emissions Pullback — Is the Auto Industry Finally Waking Up?
This live stream from The Mopar Junkie focuses on a significant shift in European Union emissions regulations, which are being relaxed. The host discu... moresses the potential global impact of this pullback on the auto industry, particularly for manufacturers reliant on internal combustion engines (ICE). While the video title suggests a critical look at the EV transition and a potential "waking up" of the auto industry, the transcript provided is empty, offering no specific details on the reviewer's verdict, vehicle-specific information, or real-world performance data. The discussion appears to be a general commentary on regulatory changes and industry trends, with a strong emphasis on Mopar and ICE vehicles. less
Stellantis CEO Talks Hybrids, HEMIs, and Fuel Regulations
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa signals a significant strategic shift in the U.S. market, prioritizing customer demand for efficient combustion engines ... moreand traditional hybrids over a forced EV adoption. This pivot is driven by the rollback of fuel economy standards, which Filosa believes better align with consumer desires and vehicle affordability. The company plans a substantial $13 billion investment over four years, focusing on increasing production, launching five new vehicles, and creating 5,000 jobs. Key highlights include the anticipated return of the Hemi V8 engine to Ram trucks and other models, and the introduction of a new hybrid powertrain for the Jeep Cherokee, promising an estimated 37 MPG combined and a 500-mile range. Filosa expressed confidence that hybrids will become a favorite powertrain in the U.S., emphasizing traditional hybrids over plug-in models due to cost and charging infrastructure concerns. This strategy aims to boost Stellantis's U.S. market share, which has already seen growth. less
Why I'm Done With EVs — I'll Never Buy Or Lease Another One Again
The reviewer expresses significant dissatisfaction with the overall EV ownership experience, despite a personal fondness for the 2025 Dodge Charger Da... moreytona Scat Pack itself. Key criticisms revolve around the prohibitive cost of EVs, including higher upfront prices, insurance premiums, and registration fees, which are exacerbated by state-specific taxes. The charging infrastructure is deemed unreliable and insufficient, leading to long wait times and inconsistent charging speeds affected by weather. Range anxiety is also a concern, particularly in cold weather. The reviewer highlights the inconvenience and time cost associated with charging compared to refueling a gasoline car. While acknowledging the instant power and performance of EVs, the reviewer concludes that the current EV market, burdened by these issues and lacking in support, is not a viable or cost-effective option for most consumers. The reviewer suggests that a range-extender version of the Charger would significantly mitigate these problems. less
Chrysler Isn't Dead
Chrysler's CEO, Christine Feuell, emphatically states that the brand is not dead but poised for a significant resurgence. The interview highlight... mores a strategic pivot towards 'blue-collar luxury' and a focus on creating vehicles that offer an accessible yet premium ownership experience. Key design inspirations are drawn from past iconic models like the Chrysler Kronos, emphasizing audacity and experimentation. The Pacifica minivan is presented as a versatile 'Swiss Army knife,' with innovations like Stow and Go and a focus on the driver's well-being. The upcoming Hion concept embodies Chrysler's future vision of 'harmony in motion,' featuring sleek design, integrated technology, and a multi-energy strategy including electric, hybrid, and gasoline options. The return of SRT performance models under the Chrysler brand is also confirmed, with potential applications like an SRT Pacifica. The brand is committed to expanding its portfolio beyond minivans, with new crossovers and a car inspired by the Hion concept planned, aiming to reclaim leadership and offer game-changing products. less
Dodge Executive Team Discusses The New 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack
The 2026 Dodge Charger SIXPACK Scat Pack is presented as a potent evolution of the muscle car, aiming to blend everyday usability with exhilarating pe... morerformance. Executives emphasize the vehicle's "multi-energy" platform, allowing for both electric and internal combustion powertrains, with the SIXPACK Scat Pack featuring a 550 horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine. Key highlights include standard all-wheel drive, a mechanical limited-slip differential, and selectable rear-wheel drive capability, enabling traditional muscle car antics like drifting and donuts. The interior is lauded for its driver-focused design, large screens, and premium materials, while the exterior boasts a clean, heritage-inspired aesthetic. Dodge stresses that this is not a compromise vehicle, offering ample cargo space, comfortable seating, and a smooth ride, making it a true daily driver. The SIXPACK Scat Pack is positioned as the most powerful car under $55,000, offering more power and torque than its predecessor, the Challenger Scat Pack Widebody. less
2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack & Daytona Lineup Is Here — A New Era Of Mopar Muscle!
The 2026 Dodge Charger represents a significant transformation, offering both turbocharged Hurricane inline-six (SIXPACK) and all-electric (Daytona) p... moreowertrains. The reviewer, an owner of a Daytona Scat Pack, was surprised by the distinct driving dynamics of the new Charger SIXPACK, finding it a more focused performance machine compared to the Daytona's GT-like cruiser persona. While the Hurricane engine is praised for its smooth power delivery, strong mid-range torque, and balanced feel, the reviewer notes the audible direct injection noise at low speeds and the lack of a physical oil dipstick as drawbacks. The handling is lauded as the best in Charger history, with impressive chassis stiffness and precise, forgiving dynamics, even in adverse weather conditions thanks to AWD. However, the interior receives criticism for subpar plastic materials, particularly on the door panels, and the frustrating haptic buttons are highlighted as a major design flaw. The exterior is generally liked, though projector headlights are preferred over the reflective LEDs. The reviewer emphasizes that despite its size, the new Charger feels nimble and competitive, particularly against the Ford Mustang Dark Horse, offering more practicality and comparable performance at a lower price point. The Daytona is positioned as the ultimate boulevard cruiser, while the SIXPACK is the true successor to American muscle heritage. less
First Drive: 550 Horsepower 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack
The 2026 Dodge Charger SIXPACK Scat Pack represents a significant evolution for the Charger nameplate, moving beyond its traditional V8 muscle car roo... morets into a new era of turbocharged performance. The reviewer praises its exceptional handling, calling it the best-handling Charger ever built, a stark contrast to previous generations that felt like "boats." The new inline-six Hurricane engine, particularly the high-output version, delivers impressive mid-range punch with minimal turbo lag, offering a driving experience that feels significantly lighter than its 4,800+ lb curb weight suggests. The interior is lauded for its modern design, improved visibility, and comfortable seats, while the hatchback offers substantial practicality. However, the car is not without its flaws. The reviewer strongly dislikes the haptic HVAC controls and the lack of a traditional oil dipstick, preferring physical checks over electronic readings. The eco-friendly leather is criticized for its susceptibility to water stains, and the lower door plastics scuff too easily. Despite these drawbacks, the Charger SIXPACK Scat Pack is positioned as a more practical and engaging daily driver than its EV counterpart, the Daytona, and a compelling alternative to the Ford Mustang Darkhorse, offering more power and better real-world usability at a lower price point. less
Stellantis Unleashes 324 Horsepower Hurricane4 Turbo I4
Stellantis has officially unveiled its new 2.0-liter turbocharged Hurricane4 engine, a significant departure from its predecessor, the GME-T4. This en... moregine, developed from a clean-sheet design, boasts 324 horsepower and 332 foot-pounds of torque, achieving an impressive 162 horsepower per liter. A key innovation is the integration of Turbulent Jet Ignition (TJI) technology, previously seen in Maserati's Nettuno V6, enhancing both performance and efficiency. The Hurricane4 is slated for its debut in the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee, offering a compelling alternative to the V6, with comparable towing capacity but superior power, torque, and fuel economy. The engine's design prioritizes thermal efficiency through features like Miller cycle combustion, dual injection (PFI and DI), and a variable geometry turbocharger. Stellantis emphasizes its commitment to offering customer choice, with this plant producing both ICE engines and electrified components. While the V6 remains a workhorse, the Hurricane4 is positioned as a mid-to-uplevel upgrade, promising a no-excuses performance and efficiency package for consumers. less
Big News For Warren Truck Assembly This Week
This video provides a comprehensive update on the Warren Truck Assembly Plant, focusing on the upcoming 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer lineup and a new full... more-size SUV. The reviewer highlights the unification of the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer nameplates into a single Grand Wagoneer lineup for 2026, simplifying the buying process. A key takeaway is the introduction of a range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) variant of the Grand Wagoneer, which will share its platform with the Ram Charger (now named Rev) but offer an estimated 500 miles of range. The video also details Stellantis' $100 million investment in the Warren plant for a new full-size SUV, strongly speculated to be a Ram model. A significant portion of the video addresses the three-week production halt at the plant due to a supplier fire at Novelis' aluminum plant in New York, which has delayed the 2026 Grand Wagoneer's production start to late November, pushing its dealership arrival to early 2026. The reviewer expresses excitement for the new models and the potential job creation at the plant, while acknowledging the supply chain disruptions. less
Stellantis’ $100 Million Warren Truck Investment Confirms All-New SUV
This video discusses Stellantis' significant $100 million investment in the Warren Truck Assembly Plant, which is slated to produce an all-new la... morerge SUV starting in 2028. While Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa did not explicitly name the brand, internal presentations and the strategic positioning of brands within the Stellantis portfolio strongly suggest this SUV will be a Ram. The author speculates it could be a revival of the Ramcharger nameplate, potentially based on the Ram 1500 platform and offering range-extended EV (REEV) and internal combustion engine (ICE) options. This move aligns with Ram's brand identity and fills a gap in their current lineup, especially considering Dodge's focus on performance and Chrysler's move towards blue-collar luxury. The author expresses optimism about the future of Stellantis in the US, highlighting the shift from cost-cutting to investment and job creation under the new CEO. less
Stellantis $13B U.S. Investment — What It Means for Mopar & Detroit
Stellantis has announced a monumental $13 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing, marking the largest single investment in its 100-year history. Thi... mores significant capital injection will revitalize several key plants across the Midwest, including the reopening of the Belvidere, Illinois facility for two new Jeep models: the Cherokee and Compass. The Toledo, Ohio plant will produce a new midsize truck, while Warren, Michigan will assemble a range-extending EV and an internal combustion engine large SUV. Detroit's Jefferson North plant is slated to build the next-generation Dodge Durango, expected in 2029. The investment also includes significant upgrades to engine production in Kokomo, Indiana, with new GME-T4 EVO engines. The reviewer expresses strong optimism about these developments, highlighting Stellantis CEO Antonio Floridia's focus on North American production and quality. While specific details on all five new vehicle launches remain undisclosed, the announcement signals a robust commitment to American jobs and product strategy, with a particular emphasis on expanding offerings and leveraging new technologies like range-extending EVs. less
Stellantis Posts Its U.S. Sales Numbers In Q3 2025
Stellantis has reported a positive Q3 2025 sales performance in the US, with a 6% year-over-year increase, driven significantly by a 16% surge in Sept... moreember sales. This uptick is attributed to the return of the 5.7L Hemi in the Ram 1500 and more aggressive pricing on Jeep models. The Jeep brand saw an 11% quarterly gain, though year-to-date figures remain stagnant. The Grand Cherokee and Wrangler showed quarterly growth, while the Compass and Wagoneer experienced declines. Ram brand sales are down slightly year-over-year, with the 1500 performing well post-Hemi return, while heavy-duty models and ProMaster vans saw decreases. Dodge's sales are down significantly year-to-date, despite a strong quarter for the Durango, with legacy models like the Dart and Journey still appearing in sales figures. Chrysler's Pacifica and Voyager saw a significant boost with the resumption of shipments after tariff issues. Fiat and Alfa Romeo continue to struggle, with minimal sales figures for their limited lineups, raising questions about their future in the US market. less
Let’s Talk About What Bricked My 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack BEV
The Mopar Junkie details a frustrating experience with his 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack BEV, which 'bricked' itself after an apparen... moret over-the-air software update. The vehicle displayed numerous warning lights and became inoperable, requiring a tow to the dealership. The reviewer highlights significant issues with the towing process, including multiple failed attempts and unexpected charges. At the dealership, the problem was diagnosed as a 12-volt battery failure, though the reviewer notes discrepancies in the service documentation and lingering issues with the infotainment screen and keyless entry that were not fully resolved. Despite the technical problems and service அனுபவம், the reviewer expresses a continued appreciation for the car's styling and presence, while also acknowledging the growing pains associated with new EV technology. less
Tuesday Night Mopar Livestream | The Mopar Junkie Studio | Detroit, Michigan
This livestream from The Mopar Junkie Studio focuses on a significant issue experienced by the host: a "bricked" Dodge Charger Daytona EV fo... morellowing an over-the-air update. The reviewer details the frustrating process of getting the car towed and serviced, highlighting poor communication and a lack of preparedness from the dealership and towing companies for EV-specific issues. While not blaming Stellantis for the initial software problem, the host expresses strong dissatisfaction with the customer service and logistical support received. The discussion also touches upon the upcoming Ram Dakota, its potential powertrains and trims for South America, and the North American midsize truck market, benchmarking against the Ford Ranger. Finally, the conversation delves into Chrysler's future product roadmap, including a new Pacifica, a C6X crossover, a returning sedan, and an affordable passenger car, with a focus on multi-energy powertrains rather than an all-electric future for the brand. less
My Dodge Charger Daytona Is Bricked, and I Am Furious For Another Reason
The reviewer, an automotive journalist, shares a frustrating experience with his 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack after an over-the-air update cau... moresed the vehicle to "brick." While generally pleased with the car's performance and styling since acquiring it in May, this incident highlights significant issues beyond the vehicle itself. The primary complaint is not the car's malfunction, but the abysmal customer service and towing infrastructure for EVs. It took multiple attempts and days to find a tow truck equipped to handle an EV, with many companies refusing the job due to liability concerns. This experience, coupled with the car's inability to charge and the unavailability of critical safety features like the SOS call, left the reviewer deeply disappointed with the EV ownership support system, despite loving the car's driving dynamics. He emphasizes that these infrastructure and support headaches are the real deterrents for potential EV buyers, not the cars themselves. less
It Finally Happened My 2025 Dodge Charger Scat Pack Bricked After OTA Update
The reviewer's 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack experienced a critical failure, bricking after an over-the-air (OTA) software update. While t... morehe car has generally been reliable since May, this incident highlights significant software instability. The reviewer notes that the update introduced new in-car games but ultimately caused a system-wide failure, leaving the car inoperable with numerous warning lights. The process of getting the vehicle towed to a dealership proved frustrating, with initial tow truck dispatches lacking the necessary equipment for an EV, leading to delays and unexpected costs for the customer. Despite the inconvenience and the car's current state, the reviewer expresses a continued, albeit not emotional, appreciation for the Charger Daytona's driving dynamics and styling, calling it a capable Grand Touring car rather than a true muscle car. The core issues identified are the unreliability of OTA updates without customer consent and the inadequate support infrastructure for EV breakdowns, particularly concerning towing. less
Late-Night Errands in My Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack
The Mopar Junkie takes his Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack out for late-night errands, offering a candid look at Dodge's new electric muscle car.... more While appreciating the car's striking looks and comfortable GT-like ride, the reviewer highlights significant drawbacks, particularly the interior quality, which he deems a major downfall with subpar plastics and long, cumbersome doors. He notes the lack of an "emotional connection" and the inability to perform traditional muscle car actions like burnouts, classifying it more as a GT than a true muscle car. Charging speed is discussed, with the car peaking at 160 kW on a fast charger but slowing considerably after 80% charge. The reviewer expresses hope for future improvements, particularly a refresh in 2028 that might include a Hemi engine and improved battery technology. Despite its flaws, he encourages viewers to test drive it, acknowledging its impressive handling and spaciousness for a coupe, making it a usable daily driver for families. less
Let’s Discuss the Ram 1500 Rev Situation | Late Night Mopar Talk from The Mopar Junkie Studio
The Ram 1500 REV electric pickup truck has been officially canceled by Stellantis, a decision that comes as a surprise to some but was anticipated by ... moremany due to repeated delays. The extensive development and financial investment in the REV appear to have been for naught, with the company shifting focus to the Ramcharger REEV (Range-Extended Electric Vehicle). The REV's cancellation is attributed to several factors, including a perceived lack of demand for electric pickups, the phasing out of EV incentives, and the high cost of battery packs, particularly for the long-range variant. While the REV is gone, the Ramcharger, which will now adopt the REV nameplate, is still moving forward. The reviewer expresses a preference for REEVs over BEVs due to range anxiety concerns and highlights the significant cost of battery replacement as a major hurdle for EV adoption. The discussion also touches upon the current state of EV charging infrastructure, its unreliability, and the associated costs, suggesting that widespread adoption may still be some time away. less
Out and About in My 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack Dealer Lot Hunt with The Mopar Junkie
The reviewer takes the 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack on a dealership hunt, primarily seeking new Durango GT Hemi and Ram 1500 Hemi trucks. Whil... moree driving the Charger Daytona, the reviewer praises its smooth ride and instant acceleration, making merging easy. However, significant criticisms are leveled at the interior materials, which are deemed subpar for an $80,000 vehicle, and the "Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust" system, which is described as synthesized and lacking the feel of a true muscle car due to its single-gear operation and inability to rev while coasting. The reviewer also notes the car's weight (around 6,000 lbs) and its full-time AWD, preventing burnouts, leading to the conclusion that it's a capable GT car, not a true muscle car. The reviewer expresses strong disappointment with Dodge's current brand strategy, particularly the discontinuation of the Durango's V6 engine, which they see as a critical error given Dodge's declining sales, especially when compared to Chrysler's success with minivans. Despite the Charger Daytona's driving dynamics, the reviewer ultimately states it hasn't convinced them to buy another EV, preferring a "six-pack car" and lamenting the lack of customization and "soul" in EVs. less
Tuesday Late Night Livestream Charging the Dodge Charger Daytona
This livestream review of the Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack highlights its impressive exterior styling and comfortable ride, contrasting it with the... more perceived blandness of Teslas. The reviewer praises its performance, noting it's faster than six-pack models and handles well, especially in stop-and-go traffic where regenerative braking excels. However, significant drawbacks are identified, primarily the cheap interior plastics, haptic buttons, and the lack of an emotional connection to the EV powertrain, which the reviewer feels prevents it from being a true muscle car, classifying it instead as a capable GT. Charging speed is noted as fast up to 80%, but significantly slows thereafter. While the reviewer appreciates the car's design and driving dynamics, they express a strong preference for internal combustion engines and doubt a future return to EVs due to inconvenience, despite acknowledging the car's overall fun factor and the benefits of reduced maintenance. less
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa | Fireside Chat at Kepler Cheuvreux Autumn Conference 2025
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa, in a fireside chat at the Kepler Cheuvreux Autumn Conference 2025, outlined a strategic focus on business growth, flawl... moreess industrial execution, and increased profits. A key priority is regaining market share in North America, particularly by reintroducing popular models like the Ram 1500 with the HEMI V8, the Dodge Charger with an internal combustion engine option alongside the EV, and the Jeep Cherokee. Filosa emphasized rigorous inventory management and a commitment to listening to dealer feedback, which has been instrumental in the successful return of V8 engines and the upcoming Jeep Cherokee. The company is also focusing on expanding its financial services in North America and navigating complex tariff landscapes. In Europe, Stellantis is ramping up production on two new platforms, SmartCar and STLA Medium, to launch competitive EVs and traditional powertrains, aiming to address regulatory pressures and declining market share. The collaboration with Leapmotor is highlighted as a significant strategy for growth in Europe and other regions, with plans for joint production and technology exchange. Filosa also addressed past issues with PureTech engines, assuring that lessons learned are being applied to improve quality and customer confidence, particularly with the new 1.6L engine for the North American market. less
Let’s Talk About the Future of the Dodge Durango
The reviewer, a long-time Dodge Durango enthusiast, discusses his 2021 RT model and the future of the Durango line. While he praises the current gener... moreation's driving dynamics, comfort, and the enduring appeal of the 5.7L Hemi engine, he expresses significant concerns about Dodge's product strategy for 2026 and beyond. Key criticisms include the potential alienation of V6 buyers by an all-Hemi lineup, the decontenting of models to offset price increases, and the aging platform which has been in production since 2011. He highlights missed opportunities, such as not introducing a "Scat Pack" Durango, and expresses disappointment with the lack of significant updates to the interior and exterior design. The reviewer also touches on the controversial decision to make the Durango RT 392 and SRT Hellcat unavailable in CARB states, limiting options for a significant customer base. He advocates for a return to a body-on-frame platform for a more robust and versatile Durango, particularly for fleet and law enforcement use, and laments the perceived decline in material quality in newer Stellantis vehicles compared to the Durango. less
Jeep Team Talks About The All-New Cherokee
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee (KM) is presented as an all-new hybrid-only model for North America, built on the versatile STLA platform. Key highlights inclu... morede a modified 1.6L European-sourced four-cylinder turbo engine paired with a new two-motor EVT hybrid transmission and a 350-volt full hybrid system. While the initial launch focuses on all-wheel drive, the company confirms plans for other powertrain options, including a future Trackhawk variant, emphasizing a return to more powerful engine choices and customer preference for choice. Designers focused on balancing the iconic Jeep DNA with aerodynamic improvements for the hybrid system. The vehicle retains the Cherokee nameplate due to its heritage and is assembled in Mexico. Towing capacity is rated at 3500 lbs. The company also discussed strategies to optimize profitability through supply chain efficiencies and flexible content packaging, assuring that content will not be de-contented. The vehicle is positioned to attract both traditional midsize SUV buyers and those interested in hybrid technology with minimal behavioral change. less