Dodge has made a shocking revision of the 2026 Durango line; there has been a reintroduction of the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine as the base engine in the Durango GT model. This has introduced a cheaper, fuel-efficient alternative in addition to the continued usage of V8 engines, with the performance and the larger customer base. The 2026 model represents a flexible strategy whereby Dodge is adjusting to the market needs after first entering the market with an all-V8 line-up.
Return of the V6: What It Means
– 3.6 liter V6 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque with the ZF automatic transmission and 2-wheel drive as a standard and all-wheel drive as an option costing an additional 2,000.
– Its price has dropped the initial cost of 44,690 (V8 base) to 40,990 in the form of the GT body, which will be a savings of about 3,700 dollars.
– Improved fuel economy and reduced operation cost will attract the value-conscious consumers, without compromising the fundamental utility.
V8 Powertrains Stay Strong
– Dodge still provides the 5.7 liters HEMI V8 (360 hp, 390 lb-ft) and the performance-oriented supercharged 6.2 liters Hellcat V8 with 710 hp and 645 lb-ft.
– Durango R/T with 6.4 liter V8 producing 475 hp and 470 lb-ft will appear in the early 2026, with a price close to less than 50,000.
– V8 models focus on the muscle SUV heritage of Durango that delivers high acceleration and towing.
Why the V6 Comeback?
– Original, previously abandoned in early 2025 because of fuel economy legislation and a drive towards a performance-only V8 model range.
– Due to high demand of V8s and supply difficulties of the HEMI engines, Dodge revived V6 to satisfy the needs of customers and sales momentum.
– Gives a lower-cost point of entry into a competitive midsize SUV market that is growing more price and efficiency conscious.
Performance and Practicality
– The V6 Durango is able to carry the mass of approximately 5,000 pounds without any problems, but it cannot compete with the speed of V8 models (approximately 7.4 seconds vs. 6.2 seconds depending on the 5.7 liter).
– Towing and payload are good, which can be used by family and recreationally.
– There are similar interior and safety features to V8 trims, including the present-day infotainment and driver-assistance technology.
Pricing and Availability
– Dodge Durango V6 begins at 40,990, which is affordable to a broader purchasing category.
– Durango V8 models begin at a greater point: $44,690 (5.7L) and to almost 80,000 in Hellcat version.
– The current order is in progress, and the delivery should take place in early 2026.
Summary Table: Dodge Durango 2026 Engine Choices
| Trim | Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Starting Price | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GT | 3.6L V6 | 295 | 260 | $40,990 | RWD AWD optional |
| GT | 5.7L HEMI V8 | 360 | 390 | $44,690 | RWD/AWD |
| R/T (early 2026) | 6.4L V8 | 475 | 470 | ~$50,000 | RWD/AWD |
| SRT Hellcat | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 710 | 645 | $79,995 | AWD |
FAQs
Q1: Why did Dodge decide to revive the V6 engine?
The limitation of supply of HEMI V8s and demand on the market of a cheaper alternative made Dodge go back to the V6 to satisfy more consumers.
Q2: What is the performance of the V6 Durango as compared to V8 models?
It provides good power and worse acceleration (0-60 mph 7.4 sec vs. 6.2 sec of V8).
Q3: Does the V6 Durango come with all-wheel drive?
Yes, AWD is an optional package of 2000 dollars on GT V6, and it comes in RWD.
