Dodge’s long-running three-row SUV, the Durango, is proving it’s not ready to step aside just yet. Despite being on sale for over a decade in its current generation, the Durango has managed to keep drivers engaged with its performance and family-friendly capabilities. But for 2026, the big news is not just about its longevity—it’s about the power under the hood. Dodge is going all-in on the Hemi V-8, officially dropping the entry-level V-6 option.
This marks a bold move in today’s automotive market, where many manufacturers are downsizing engines or shifting toward electrification. The 2026 Durango will be the only Dodge model available exclusively with a V-8 and remains one of the last vehicles on the market where a powerful Hemi is standard equipment.
A Veteran SUV That Refuses to Retire
The current third-generation Durango has been around for so long that it has outlasted multiple corporate leadership changes, surviving through four CEOs and even the merger that created Stellantis in 2021. Over the years, Dodge has made small design tweaks, introduced technology updates, and refreshed trim packages for the SUV, but the core design has remained largely unchanged.
Industry insiders say the Durango in this form will likely continue for a couple more years before we see a true next-generation model. That means buyers still have time to get a piece of this muscular SUV’s history—especially now that the lineup has a more aggressive powertrain strategy.
The New All-Hemi Lineup
For 2026, the Durango GT—the model’s base trim—drops its old 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and adopts the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. This engine, once reserved for higher trims like the R/T, produces 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, paired with all-wheel drive. Dodge is calling it the most affordable AWD V-8 vehicle in the industry, with a starting price of $44,490.
However, the switch to the V-8 comes with about a $4,000 increase over the previous GT’s base price, making it more expensive but far more powerful than before.
R/T Steps Up With the 6.4-Liter “392” Hemi
With the GT now getting the 5.7-liter Hemi, Dodge decided the R/T trim needed something extra to set it apart. Enter the 6.4-liter “392” Hemi V-8, delivering a robust 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. This engine makes a return to the lineup after previously appearing in the 2024 Durango AlcHemi special edition.
SRT Hellcat – Still the King of the Pack
At the top of the performance range is the Durango SRT Hellcat, which keeps its supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V-8 producing a staggering 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. This remains one of the most powerful and fastest three-row SUVs you can buy today.
Fresh Looks Through Packages and Special Editions
Dodge is also keeping things exciting with new styling options and performance packages:
- Blacktop Redline Package (R/T) – Includes blacked-out 20-inch wheels, black badges, black SRT exhaust tips, and front and rear SRT spoilers. Adds $3,495 to the R/T Plus and Premium trims.
- Tow N Go Package ($5,990) – Wider 20-inch wheels (including forged options) and black Brembo brake calipers for extra stopping power.
- R/T Standard Blacktop Package ($1,695) – Black wheels, black badges, and black roof rails in a seven-seat configuration.
For the GT, the Blacktop Redline package brings red stripes on the fenders and liftgate, a performance hood, SRT spoilers, and leather and suede SRT performance front seats.
Inside the Blacktop Redline R/T
The cabin gets a sportier, more premium touch. You’ll find SRT front seats and standard second-row captain’s chairs wrapped in leather and microsuede with red stitching. Leather also extends to the door panels and center console. Trim pieces feature a laser-etched “crypto sweep” design for added visual interest.
Jailbreak Customization for the Hellcat
The 2026 Durango SRT Hellcat also offers the Jailbreak Package for an extra $995, giving buyers extensive personalization options:
- Six wheel designs
- Six exterior and badge colors
- Five dual-stripe color choices
- Four brake caliper colors
- Five seat designs with three seating configurations
- Four seatbelt colors
This package allows owners to create a Durango that matches their exact style preferences.
Order Dates and Availability
- GT & SRT Hellcat Orders: Open August 13, 2025
- R/T AWD Orders: Will open later in 2025
Final Take – A Bold, V-8-Only Statement
In a time when most automakers are moving away from big-displacement engines, the 2026 Dodge Durango is doubling down on muscle. With the entire lineup powered by Hemi V-8s, it delivers a rare combination of family-hauling practicality and true American performance.
Whether you’re after the most affordable AWD V-8 SUV on the market or a 700+ horsepower family rocket, the Durango still delivers—just as it has for over a decade. The only question left is how much longer Dodge can keep this legend alive before the inevitable shift to electrification.
FAQs
Why does every 2026 Durango get a V‑8 now?
In 2026, Dodge dropped the V‑6 and gave all Durangos a Hemi‑V‑8. The GT now has a 5.7 L V‑8 with 360 hp, the R/T gets a 6.4 L “392” V‑8 with 475 hp, and the Hellcat keeps its 710‑hp supercharged V‑8
Is the base Durango GT still cheaper than others?
The Durango GT now starts at $44,490 with its new 5.7 L V-8—about $4,000 more than before—but it’s the most affordable AWD V-8 SUV you can buy.
How much power does R/T now have with a 392 V-8?
The R/T trim now has the 6.4 L “392” Hemi V-8, delivering 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque.
What’s special about the Hellcat Jailbreak?
The SRT Hellcat stays with its 710-hp supercharged V-8 and adds the “Jailbreak” option—let buyers choose paint, wheels, stripes, seats, belts, and more in millions of combos
When can I order the 2026 Durango?
Orders for the GT and Hellcat open August 13, 2025, and the R/T will open later in 2025. All should arrive at dealerships by late 2025 or early 2026.
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