The Dodge Durango Just Democratized The V8
Dodge knows how to butter its own bread. The automaker is maximizing the profit potential of the Durango lineup, making Hemi power standard across the board.
Key Points
- Dodge has made the Durango lineup exclusively V8-powered, replacing the GT’s V6 with a 360-hp 5.7-liter Hemi and bringing back the 475-hp 6.4-liter Hemi for the R/T.
- The SRT Hellcat retains its 710-hp supercharged V8 but gets a $5,000 price cut, while the GT gains quicker acceleration and greater towing capacity.
- Orders for the GT and SRT Hellcat open August 13, with the R/T to follow later in 2026.
The entry-level GT model ditches its long-running 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 in favor of the company's 5.7-liter V8, boosting output to 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. That’s a gain of 65 hp and 130 lb-ft over the old six-cylinder, cutting the 0–60 mph time from 7.4 to 6.2 seconds and juicing towing capacity by up to 40 percent.
Pricing for the Durango GT starts at $42,495 with all-wheel drive, which Dodge says makes it the most affordable AWD V8 in the segment— a title well earned as the current-gen Durango enters its 15th year on sale.
The R/T also earns some shine, as the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 will be available again as an available option. With 475 hp and 470 lb-ft on tap, it offers a 115-horsepower increase over the 5.7-liter equipped R/T while still coming in under $50,000.
At the top of the range, the SRT Hellcat sees a $5,000 price cut, now starting at $79,995. Powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 710 hp and 645 lb-ft, it can sprint from 0–60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and reach 180 mph.
“Dodge Durango is on a tear, with Q2 U.S. sales surging more than 50% over Q1.” said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO. “We’re harnessing that momentum to do what Dodge does best: bring more horsepower to the masses. Starting with orders placed on August 13, every Durango will come standard with a HEMI V8. It’s another Dodge power move that delivers the ‘affordable performance’ our Dodge customers demand and deserve.”
For buyers who want maximum personalization, the SRT Hellcat Jailbreak package unlocks a wide range of customization options for just $995.
Orders for the 2026 Durango GT and SRT Hellcat are open, with R/T availability set for later in the year. Considering the issues General Motors has had with both its 6.2 and 5.3-liter V8s, the Durango could be one of the best choices for SUV shoppers looking for a V8 experience.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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The Pentastar V6 has its reliability problems, but the Hemi isn't everyone's cup of tea. Not-so-great gas mileage and more engine than a lot of people need or want.