The CEO of Dodge has spoken out about the possible return of one of the brand's most iconic models -- and a firm favorite for many.
The US car brand is going through significant changes under the ownership of mega-corporation Stellantis, and the manufacturer's chief, Matt McAlear, has shed some light on what the future might hold.
Much like other brands under the Stellantis umbrella, Dodge has found the push toward electrification somewhat tricky.
They've faced plenty of criticism too, particularly with the launch of the electric Dodge Charger Daytona.
While McAlear admits the backlash "stings," he believes electrification is the right move -- but has also hinted at a possible V8 comeback for the Charger.
"V8 is no longer a bad word around the company," he said in a recent interview with The Drive.
But while the talk focused on the Charger, what about the future of another much-loved Dodge sports car?
The Viper, which ran for 26 years from 1991 until it was discontinued in 2017, is a hot favorite among gearheads across the globe -- and its return is hotly anticipated.
McAlear is certainly a fan, describing the Viper as "one of my favorite cars" -- but he failed to clarify if a potential fourth-gen model was on the cards.
On whether there's a need for a new halo car from Dodge, he added: "Is there a need? I don't know if there's a need. Is there a want, a desire, and a market? I think yeah."
He even suggested there could be room for two halo models; a high-end flagship and a more affordable entry-level option.
McAlear elaborated on the idea of a more accessible halo car, imagining something priced "back to that sub-$30,000 mark."
He envisions a vehicle for enthusiasts who want a fun, simple car without unnecessary features.
He added: "Something that doesn't need all the safety features, doesn't need the heated seats. Just a car."
He also noted inspiration from powersports vehicles like the Polaris Slingshot, hinting at a return to Dodge's roots with stripped-down, affordable cars designed purely for enjoyment.
As part of the brand's strategy, McAlear emphasized the importance of originality and was clear that Dodge doesn't aim to compete directly with the likes of the Mustang or Camaro.
"If we're gonna make future products, we need to get something original like the Viper -- not a Corvette fighter, not a Mustang fighter," he said.
McAlear also spoke about the lack of affordable options in Dodge's current lineup, with the cheapest car, the Charger, starting at over $60,000.
He said: "Having a value play just to get people on the showroom floor is important."
However, he stressed that Dodge won't produce vehicles just to hit a price point, adding: "We're not in the business of doing commoditized products just to be in the segment to do it in price only."
He also reiterated Dodge's commitment to making cars with plenty of oomph.
He said: "One of the things we've always done well at Dodge is knowing we have to be different, stand out, have best-in-class claims, we have to have performance first."
Balancing its muscle car heritage with the push toward electrification and affordability is proving tricky for the manufacturer.
While the Viper's return remains uncertain, McAlear's comments suggest the possibility of a more accessible, performance-focused car being a significant part of Dodge's future.
Dodge fans were certainly enthused by the idea, with many taking to social media to express their thoughts and feelings.
On Facebook, one user wrote: "I think there is definitely room for a small pocket rocket.
"GM in the 2000s had some cheap, great performance cars -- the Cobalt SS, Grand Prix GXP, etc. Now no one in the big three makes such a car. Do it, Dodge."
Another commented: "It would definitely be cool to see the sport compact scene return."
A third joked: "You produce three cars. There's literally room for anything in your lineup."
And another cynically wrote: "Just don't ruin it with a front-wheel drive. I know they will ruin it. Just make it something that can handle being built."