FCA's 5.7-liter V8 was released back in 2003 when it appeared on the then-new Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500. Though this particular Hemi has received regular updates over the years, fifteen years is a long time for an engine to remain in production. And it appears it's time might be up.

According to Allpar, FCA is supposedly working on a new inline-six turbocharged engine that will either meet or beat the Hemi's power ratings while offering a smoother torque curve. The current Dodge Challenger, one of many vehicles where this Hemi is used, produces up to 375 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Allpar also speculates that the first FCA vehicle that could receive this new engine might be the Jeep Wagoneer or the next generation Grand Cherokee.

We wouldn't be surprised to see it also appear in the Challenger, Charger, and Ram pickups as well, effectively replacing the base 3.6-liter V6 engine. The engineering required to tackle such a high power while also keeping the engine as small as possible isn't easy, so it's likely this engine will have fairly small and closely spaced bores to reduce its length. The reported goal is to remain within three inches of the current 2.4-liter four-cylinder.

While displacement could be just below 3 liters, power will be further increased thanks to twin turbos or a twin-scroll turbo. FCA and Chrysler have a history of giving engines specific names, and rumor has it this one will be called "Tornado".

Then again, FCA may simply go with something directly to the point: "3.0-liter six-cylinder". We'll see. Alfa Romeo may also be a beneficiary of this engine, though it would most likely receive Ferrari-designed heads and different blocks. A straight-six would certainly be an interesting choice for FCA, and it's been proven time and again by German automakers, specifically BMW, that this engine type can deliver the goods.