Is The Dodge Dart To Get 300HP SRT Version?

At the Detroit Auto Show this year, Dodge introduced the world to its latest offering in the compact segment, the Dart. Based on an Alfa Romeo chassis, the Dart has a more sporting pedigree than do any of the other compact offerings in North America. With Dodge already planning to offer a trio of engine options, it would not be out of the question to assume a higher-horsepower SRT version might be on its way.

And by Motor Trend’s reckoning, if Dodge is going to do an SRT Dart, they might as well do it right with a 300-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder. Hopefully all-wheel drive will be an option too, because if this destined to perform alongside cars like the WRX and Evo, it best spin all four tires.

The above-renderings by Motor Trend add the usual Mopar flair to what an SRT4 version of the new Dodge Dart might look like. Bigger wheels, a more aggressive front fascia, and swoopier spoiler are all likely, though the center-mounted exhaust tips are probably a little too much to hope for.

So what about horsepower? Well as Motor Trend figures it, there are two options; the 300-horsepower 4-banger coming out for the new Alfa 4C, or a larger-displacement version of the 2.0 liter Tigershark that is one of three engines slated for the Dart lineup. Throw all-wheel drive and lots of high-tech content and you’re talking about a compact car pushing $30,000, one that can hold its own with a lot of pricier German luxury sedans, if done right.