Yes. The 2012 Challenger SXT is powered by a V6 engine — specifically the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 — and not by a V8.
This article explains the engine options across the 2012 Challenger lineup, what the SXT trim offered, and how it differs from higher-performance versions.
Engine options across the 2012 Challenger lineup
The Challenger offered several engines in 2012. The SXT trim used the V6 as its standard powerplant, while RT and SRT8 trims used larger V8s.
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 — 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque; standard on SXT and SXT Plus; available with a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission depending on configuration.
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8 — 372 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque; used on RT models; typically paired with a 5-speed automatic (a 6-speed manual was not universally available across all 2012 RT configurations).
- 6.4-liter Hemi V8 — 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque; used on SRT8 models; typically paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
In short, if you are looking for a V6 Challenger in 2012, the SXT is the model you want. Higher trims offer V8 power for more performance.
Performance and context
The 3.6L V6 provides a balanced blend of performance and efficiency for a late-model American muscle car, delivering spirited acceleration in everyday driving. Buyers seeking more raw power could opt for RT or SRT8 trims, which used larger Hemi V8 engines.
Summary
Summary: The 2012 Challenger SXT uses a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 as its standard engine. The SXT is the V6 option in the lineup, while RT and SRT8 trims use larger Hemi V8 engines. If you want V6 performance in a 2012 Challenger, the SXT is the correct trim.