Dodge Revives Copperhead Nameplate for New SRT Model
The iconic concept vehicle returns to the Dodge lineup as a high-performance SRT sports car.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Performance Vehicles
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Dodge is officially bringing back the Copperhead nameplate for a new SRT model, marking a revival of the vehicle that first appeared as a concept in 1997. The original mass-production plans for the car were shelved in 1999 following the Chrysler-Mercedes-Benz merger.
Why it matters
The company aims to fill a distinct market gap for sports cars by leveraging its modern engineering capabilities. This move signals a strategic shift in how the brand balances its historical design legacy with contemporary performance requirements.
The original concept featured a 2.7-liter V6 engine with 220 horsepower and a drag coefficient of 0.364. For comparison, the contemporary C5 Corvette featured a drag coefficient of 0.29.
The players
Dodge
Dodge is an American brand of automobiles that has long prioritized high-performance engines and muscle car design.
Stellantis
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation that oversees the development of the new Copperhead.
The details
The new Copperhead SRT replaces a development cycle that previously saw the Chrysler Crossfire take the intended production slot. The original concept was notable for utilizing a chassis derived from the Dodge Viper alongside a specially developed five-speed manual transmission.
Timeline
1997: The Copperhead concept made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show.
1999: Dodge officially shelved all plans for the Copperhead's production.
2000: This year marked the originally intended start date for mass production.
October 2026: Reports confirm the return of the Copperhead to the production lineup.
Roadmap
The revival of the Copperhead nameplate highlights how Stellantis is mining its past concepts to compete in a crowded performance vehicle market. By revisiting discontinued projects, the automaker is positioning itself to reclaim segments previously ceded to rivals after legacy mergers.
Prospective buyers can expect a performance-oriented vehicle designed to bridge the gap left by previous model exits. The final MSRP and dealership availability will depend heavily on the specific engine choice selected for the final production trim.
The takeaway
Dodge is demonstrating that historical design language remains a powerful tool for brand differentiation in the modern era. Consumers interested in the model should monitor future engine specifications, as the power plant choice will significantly dictate the final driving characteristics.
Further reading
For more on the latest performance machines, visit the Performance Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CarBuzz.
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