"In 2026, the Dodge Durango Bids Farewell to V6 Engines, Embraces V8 Instead"
The American automaker Dodge is taking an all-in approach to power and efficiency with its upcoming 2026 Dodge Durango. In a bold move, the SUV will be exclusively powered by V8 engines, marking a departure from the V6 option that was previously available for regular customers.
Starting with the base GT trim, the 2026 Durango will come standard with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine, replacing the previous V6. This engine upgrade delivers approximately 360-370 horsepower, a significant increase compared to the V6 engine, which had 65 horsepower less.
The R/T trim level receives an upgrade to a 6.4-liter 392 HEMI V8, producing 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The SRT Hellcat version, still available, boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 with a staggering 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque.
Pricing for the 2026 Durango reflects the V8 upgrade, with the GT starting at around $44,490, a $4,000 increase from the previous model. The R/T model comes in at approximately $51,990, while the SRT Hellcat is priced at $81,990, which is actually $5,000 less than the 2025 Hellcat model.
The Durango R/T features all-wheel drive and performance-oriented options like the R/T Blacktop Redline package, which includes 20-inch Black Noise wheels, SRT spoilers, blacked-out badging, and suede/leather performance seats with red stitching. The SRT Hellcat remains as the flagship high-performance SUV, capable of achieving 0-60 mph in about 3.5 seconds.
Orders for the GT and SRT Hellcat trims are open, with deliveries expected in Q4 2025. The R/T trim order bank will open later in 2025. Dodge has confirmed that it's "all Hemi all the time" for the 2026 Dodge Durango, positioning the model as a powerful three-row SUV rivaling vehicles like the Ford Explorer.
While the final output of the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine in the 2026 Dodge Durango has not been released yet, it's clear that Dodge is committed to offering a powerful, muscle-car inspired SUV for consumers seeking performance and style.
The 2026 Dodge Durango, with its exclusive V8 engines, is resonating in the automotive industry, challenging the Ford Explorer in the three-row SUV segment. Financing options for this muscle-car inspired vehicle are anticipated to align with its increased price points, affecting consumers' lifestyle choices in transportation. With the base GT trim starting at $44,490, one might wonder if this is a worthwhile investment for the enhanced performance and style offered by the finance sector.
