The Super Bee is back, and it's a beast. Dodge's newest Charger model, the 2027 Charger Super Bee, is a performance powerhouse with a massive 600 horsepower and a host of track-focused upgrades. This article delves into what makes the Super Bee a game-changer, exploring its engine, handling, and design improvements, as well as the software enhancements that make it a driver's dream.
A Beast Under the Hood
At the heart of the Super Bee is a revised version of Dodge's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. The key upgrade here is the use of larger 56-millimeter Garrett Motion turbochargers, which pump 7.5 percent more air through the engine. This results in a significant power boost, with peak torque now available earlier at 3,000 rpm and sustained through 5,900 rpm. The engine sends power through an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive, but a new rear-wheel-drive mode lets drivers send all available torque to the rear wheels for maximum fun.
Cooling and Aerodynamics
To handle the increased power, Dodge has extensively improved the Charger's cooling, aerodynamics, and handling. The cooling capacity in the high-temp radiator has increased by more than 50 percent, while capacity for the low-temp circuit has more than doubled. The Super Bee features a unique front fascia and reworked headlights that increase airflow by 30 percent while adding over 100 pounds of downforce at 150 mph. The corners of the front fascia hide a set of auxiliary radiators, while redesigned and repositioned front-end components make space for additional cooling hardware and ductwork.
Handling and Traction
The Super Bee Launch Edition comes with 20-by-11-inch forged wheels with Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 305/35ZR20 tires, and vented 16.0-inch Brembo brakes front and rear with six-piston front and four-piston rear fixed calipers. The suspension package includes new Continuous Damping Control (CDC) dual-valve adaptive dampers, with front tension-link bushings 25 percent stiffer and front handling-link bushings 50 percent stiffer to reduce understeer. The rear stabilizer bar is 20 percent stiffer, while the front spring rates increase by 12 percent, and rear spring rates increase by six percent.
Software-Defined Fun
Dodge has installed new drive modes to exploit the Charger's newfound performance. There's a new Track Mode and Drag Mode, each with unique calibrations. Track Mode features traction and stability tuning, tighter steering, and elevated shifted points, while Drag Mode reduces front rebound and increases rear compression force to maximize power transfer. The Super Bee also features Torque Reserve, which improves Launch Control by increasing airflow and delaying ignition timing when the driver holds the brake and presses the accelerator, limiting torque at the wheels while spooling the turbos. When the driver releases the brake, the reserved torque is released, reducing turbo lag.
Visual and Interior Upgrades
The Super Bee Launch Edition is available in a new yellow-green SuckerPunch exterior color, along with another called Shady. For those who prefer a more subtle approach, Dodge will offer it in Diamond Black with Sucker Punch accents. The interior features new seats with unique branding, a new leather performance steering wheel with a dedicated RWD button, and larger paddle shifters with special instrument panel badges.
Conclusion
The 2027 Charger Super Bee is a testament to Dodge's commitment to performance and innovation. With its powerful engine, advanced cooling system, and track-focused upgrades, it's a car that demands attention. The software enhancements, including the new drive modes and Torque Reserve, further elevate the driving experience, making it a true driver's car. As Dodge continues to push the boundaries of performance, the Super Bee is a strong contender for the title of the most capable Charger ever.
In my opinion, the Super Bee is a game-changer, and it's exciting to see Dodge pushing the limits of what's possible in the world of high-performance cars. With its combination of power, handling, and style, it's a car that will surely turn heads and deliver an unforgettable driving experience.
