2026 Dodge Durango Unveiled: Retains V-8 Engine Configuration, Exclusively Offered With V-8 Powertrain
The Dodge Durango, a staple of the Dodge lineup, continues to stand the test of time. As the third-generation Durango enters its 15th year of production in 2025, it remains one of the oldest vehicles still in production.
The Durango's longevity is a testament to several factors. Its strong brand identity and loyal fan base, coupled with adaptive updates and high-performance variants, have kept the Durango relevant and able to meet evolving market demands. As a powerful midsize SUV with muscle car DNA, the Durango occupies a unique market segment with limited direct competition.
Dodge's decision to not replace the third-generation Durango with a new generation for over a decade indicates continued consumer demand or insufficient market rationale to discontinue it. This contrasts with other Stellantis models, some of which have faced poor sales, lack of consumer interest, or strategic shifts away from older designs, leading to shorter production runs or model discontinuations.
2026 Dodge Durango: What's New?
The 2026 Dodge Durango is set to feature some exciting updates. The R/T variant will now come equipped with a 6.4L V-8 engine, while the base level GT will boast a 5.7L Hemi V-8. Notably, the 2026 Durango will drop its V-6 engine, offering only V-8s.
The Durango GT's Blacktop Redline package adds a touch of sportiness with red stripes on the front fender and liftgate, a performance hood, SRT spoilers, and leather and suede SRT performance front seats. The R/T's option list includes the Blacktop Redline package, which adds blacked-out 20-inch wheels, black badging, and black SRT exhaust tips, among other features.
The SRT Hellcat variant will continue with a 6.2L supercharged V-8, and the SRT Hellcat Jailbreak variant, with its price set at $82,985, offers multiple upgrade options for an additional $995. The Jailbreak option includes five seat options with three seating configurations and four seatbelt color options.
Availability and Pricing
The order books for the 2026 Dodge Durango GT and SRT Hellcat variants open on August 13. The prices for the 2026 Dodge Durango lineup are as follows: Durango GT ($44,490), Durango R/T ($51,990), Durango SRT Hellcat ($81,990), and Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak ($82,985).
The R/T AWD variant will open to orders later this year, and the SRT Hellcat Jailbreak variant will offer six different wheel designs, six exterior and badge color choices, five dual-stripe colors, and four brake caliper color options.
The 2026 Dodge Durango is the last Dodge product available solely with a V-8, making it a must-consider for those seeking power and performance in their SUV. With its rich history, continuous updates, and unique offerings, the Durango continues to be a standout in the automotive industry.
- The Dodge Durango, renowned for its enduring presence, unveils an array of updates for the 2026 model.
- The R/T variant, a popular choice, will feature a powerful 6.4L V-8 engine, while the base model GT will boast a 5.7L Hemi V-8.
- MotorTrend enthusiasts will notice the Durango will no longer offer a V-6 engine, exclusively offering V-8s instead.
- The GT's Blacktop Redline package infuses a sporty touch with red accents, performance seats, and SRT spoilers.
- The R/T's Blacktop Redline package adds further sporty elements like blacked-out wheels, black badging, and black exhaust tips.
- The SRT Hellcat variant retains its 6.2L supercharged V-8, while the premium Jailbreak variant offers numerous upgrade options for an extra $995.
- The SRT Hellcat Jailbreak variant, priced at $82,985, provides numerous seat, seating configuration, stripe, and brake caliper color choices.
- Order books for the 2026 Durango GT and SRT Hellcat variants open on August 13, with prices starting from $44,490 for the GT, $51,990 for the R/T, $81,990 for the SRT Hellcat, and $82,985 for the SRT Hellcat Jailbreak.
- TheDie-hard fan base of the Dodge Durango is considering it a must-have for those desiring power and performance in their SUV.
- The Durango's continuous evolution, unique features, and strong brand identity make it a significant player in the automotive lifestyle and transportation industry.
