Dodge has announced that starting August 13, 2025, every model in the 2026 Dodge Durango lineup will come standard with a HEMI V-8 engine. This marks the first time the entire Durango range, from the base GT to the high-performance SRT Hellcat, will be powered exclusively by V-8 engines, a move aimed at delivering more power, capability, and value across the board. The entry-level 2026 Durango GT will now be equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 producing 65 more horsepower than the outgoing V-6 version.
Priced from $42,495 in the U.S., the GT is now the most affordable all-wheel-drive V-8 vehicle available in the market. The upgrade results in a 22 percent increase in horsepower, 50 percent more torque, and a 0–60 mph time improvement from 7.4 seconds to 6.2 seconds. Towing capacity also grows by 40 percent when paired with the R/T Tow N Go package. The model features Fuel Saver Technology, enabling cylinder deactivation to balance efficiency with performance.
For the first time, the Durango R/T will be available with a 392-cubic-inch HEMI V-8, delivering 475 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. This represents a 115-horsepower and 21 percent torque increase over the previous 5.7-liter HEMI version. The enhanced R/T combines improved acceleration and responsiveness with a more aggressive exhaust note, offering the highest horsepower available in the industry for under $50,000.
SRT Hellcat remains the performance pinnacle of the Durango range
The performance peak of the lineup remains the 2026 Durango SRT Hellcat, powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 producing 710 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque. With a 0–60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, a quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds, and a top speed of 180 mph, it continues to hold the title of the most powerful gasoline-powered SUV ever built. Now starting at $79,995 in the U.S., the SRT Hellcat offers a more accessible entry point to world-class performance.
Dodge is also introducing the 2026 Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak edition, which allows for over six million possible customization combinations. Options include multiple wheel designs, paint colors, stripe packages, badge finishes, interior seat materials and colors, brake caliper hues, and seat belt choices. The Jailbreak package is available for an additional $995, with further costs for selected options. Dealer orders for the Durango GT and SRT Hellcat will open on August 13, 2025, with first deliveries expected in the fourth quarter. Orders for the R/T AWD will be available later in the year.
All models maintain up to 8,700 pounds towing capacity
All 2026 Durango models will maintain best-in-class towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds, underlining their combination of power and utility. This announcement comes as Dodge reports a more than 50 percent increase in U.S. Durango sales in Q2 compared with Q1, alongside leading the upper midsize SUV segment in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. APEAL Study. According to Dodge CEO Matt McAlear, the strategy reflects the brand’s focus on bringing “affordable performance” to the market, ensuring every Durango delivers the signature muscle SUV driving experience. – By Content Syndication Services.