Feline of a Different Stripe: 2019 Dodge SRT Hellcat Octane Edition

Thanks to its unique ability to keep old things fresh, Dodge has become the Tupperware of automotive brands. Instead of a patented burp that locks in freshness, the automaker fields an endless supply of special editions, and yet another entry has appeared for 2019.

While Dodge has spent time refining its aged LD platform vehicles by repeatedly sprucing up their powertrain and bodywork, its specialty seems to be appearance packages that add stripes, decals, and unique paint options. A gradually expanding roster of factory racing stripes greeted buyers in recent years. First available on SRT variants of the Charger and Challenger, Dodge eventually made them an option for R/T buyers, adding a broader choice of colors for good measure.

There have also been numerous black editions, one of which wandered over to Chrysler to help butch up the Pacifica, but it’s the Charger Hellcat that receives the latest injection of attitude — not that it needed the help.

Reserved for vehicles painted in either Pitch Black or White Knuckle, the blacked-out Octane Edition enhances 2019 model-year Chargers with a full-length Satin Black center stripe bordered by Octane Red accents. While this would be a recipe for mockery for most vehicles, the Hellcat’s 707-horsepower Hemi and throwback charms should preemptively settle most stripe-related disagreements.

If not, simply tell any confused parties that you’re a Mopar fan; thus, they couldn’t possibly understand what goes on inside your head. Then shotgun a can of beer to avoid any further questions. If beer is unavailable, a can of Yoo-Hoo Chocolate Drink will work in a pinch.

However, if their resolve remains as strong as your love for thirsty, overpowered sedans and gallons of Yoo-Hoo, you might show them the Octane Edition’s other inclusions. Dodge placed black badging seemingly everywhere on the exterior and added a satin black spoiler on the rear deck. For wheels, the Octane Edition receives a set of 20 x 9.5-inch aluminum-forged Cross Brace wheels (on loan from the Challenger R/T Scat Pack 1320) that house upgraded, red-painted Brembo brakes.

Inside, drivers will notice red accent stitching just about everywhere. This list includes the SRT Performance seats with houndstooth inserts, red seat belts, and prominent SRT logo. Dodge says there’s also black accenting on the instrument panel and console bezels.

If you don’t like black, then this isn’t the car for you. However, if this is something you can get down on, Dodge claims the package can be had for just $1,495, plus whatever you manage to negotiate on the final price of a $65,545 Charger SRT Hellcat.

Availability is said to be limited, but we imagine you won’t have much trouble snagging one if you act before next year.

[Images: FCA]