What if I told you the stick shift comeback just knocked on Dodge’s door? Tremec showed a manual for mid‑engine cars at SEMA. Ford’s $400K GTD can use it. The C8 Corvette has a path now. That leaves Dodge as the odd one out because they offer zero cars with a manual option. Especially not a halo car. With a HEMI Charger on the clock to return, a $30K sports car rumored, and a mid‑engine halo Viper teased, it’s time to talk about three pedals in new Dodges.
Why a manual still matters
Manuals change how a fast car feels. Sure the car slows down on paper but the drive gets fun in your head. It’s a dance between timing the shift with your feet and you feel accomplishment because not a lot of people can do that. A manual can also keep cost in check. Fewer pumps to switch gears, fewer modules to check the transmission, and less software means they can trim the bill if Dodge wants it to.
For me, I grew up rowing gears. Over time, it becomes second nature and never leaves you. And many of you are the same. Tremec’s SEMA mid-engine gearbox was built for serious output. Think near 1,000 horsepower support with torque capped around 800 lb‑ft. That covers a broad set of trims. C8 Corvette and Mustang GTD was mentioned. Also who knows if someone would make a mid-engine project car like Factory Five.
Also, it proves there is fresh investment in manuals, not just nostalgia. For Dodge, the message is clear. The parts can be sourced and Tremec has gave them an option for no matter what drivetrain configuration.
Where a manual fits in the Dodge lineup
Charger (HEMI): This is the cleanest start. The new cabin already places the shifter with the standard pistol grip that comes on every model. Pedal box space should be there in a car this size.
$30K sports car (Duster rumor): This car begs for a stick. Keep weight low, wheelbase short, and price sharp. Start with a four‑cylinder or small six and offer a manual from day one. Then leave room in the bay for a future swap. A small, light Mopar with three pedals would print smiles and sales.
Mid‑engine halo (Viper successor): If the next halo goes mid‑engine, Tremec’s new unit solves the layout. An automatic can serve lap‑time goals. A manual can serve those who want to work for it. The gen 5 Viper held many track records and with a manual transmission. Offer both and let the driver pick. That is how you win fans from Chevy and Ford.
What I want to drive
First, give me a Charger with a six‑speed with short throws and a rowdy exhaust. I would love to see a Hellcat version with over 700hp that I can play with the gears and have plenty of power. The cheap sports car that Dodge has hinted could be that light, fun, and cheap manual transmission car that could be Mopar’s Miata. Finally, for the halo, offer both boxes. Let the track crowd keep the auto. Let the street crowd grab a manual and have fun on cool cruises with an awesome engine.
The HEMI pairs with a manual just fine. Also, the Hurricane works for the BMW crowd. A small sports car with a simple turbo four and a six‑speed would be cheap fun. A mid‑engine halo could take a high‑rev V10 or a blown V8 and still offer a cool manual transmission option. Tremec made sure the torque window is wide enough for some cool and powerful options.
Quick answers
Will Dodge offer a manual in the new Charger? Dodge has not said. The layout makes it possible. The demand could be there. The brand history begs for it.
Could the $30K sports car get a manual? It should. Price and weight both say yes. Build that car for fun and customers will buy it.
Would a mid‑engine halo support a stick? Yes. Tremec’s unit was built for that layout. Offer both transmissions and let buyers pick.
Bottom line
In short, the market just handed Dodge a chance to lead no matter the drivetrain setup. The parts exist. The buyers exist. A manual Charger would make noise. A $30K stick‑shift sports car would fill showrooms. A mid‑engine halo with two gearbox choices would pull eyes from every brand. Give drivers the option and they will show up.
