Can a Durango pull a car trailer?
A Dodge Durango can tow a car trailer, but only if the trailer’s weight stays within the SUV’s official towing limit and you have the proper equipment installed. The exact capability depends on the engine, drivetrain, and whether your model is equipped with the factory towing package.
Overview: Durango towing capacity by configuration
The Durango’s towing rating varies by year, trim level, and engine. Most modern Durangos with the 3.6-liter V6 or the 5.7-liter Hemi can pull a trailer capable of carrying another vehicle, but the maximum rating increases with the availability of the higher-output engines and the towing package. The top-end 6.4-liter Hemi option offers the highest capacity. To know your precise limit, consult the owner's manual or the door jamb VIN plate, and never exceed the GCWR (gross combined weight rating) for your specific build.
Estimated towing capacities by engine
These figures reflect typical capacities when the vehicle is properly equipped. Actual ratings depend on year, drivetrain, and optional towing hardware. Always confirm with the manufacturer for your exact VIN.
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6: commonly around 6,000 pounds maximum towing, depending on configuration.
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8: generally in the 7,400–7,900 pound range with the proper towing package.
- 6.4-liter Hemi V8 (Durango SRT and related trims): up to about 8,600–8,700 pounds with the right equipment.
Notes: These numbers assume the Trailer Tow Package is installed and a compatible hitch is used. Drive configuration (RWD vs AWD) and other options can affect the rating.
What you need to tow a car trailer safely
To tow a car trailer with a Durango safely, you should verify and equip the vehicle with the right hardware and procedures:
- Hitch and towing hardware: A Class III or Class IV hitch rated for the trailer’s weight, plus appropriate mounting hardware.
- Towing package: The factory Trailer Tow Group or equivalent, which may include a transmission cooler and integrated wiring harness.
- Trailer brakes and brake controller: For heavier trailers, brakes on the trailer are often required, and an integrated or aftermarket brake controller is commonly recommended or required by law in many areas.
- Wiring and electrical: A proper trailer wiring harness (usually 7-pin) to power lights and brakes.
- Weight distribution and loading: Use a suitable weight-distribution hitch for heavier loads and ensure proper front–rear trailer weight distribution.
- Documentation and limits: Always verify your exact GCWR and the trailer’s GVWR/GTW against your vehicle’s rating and local towing regulations.
- Regular checks: Ensure tires, brakes, lights, and hitch hardware are in good condition before towing.
If you plan to tow regularly or with heavier trailers, have your Durango inspected by a dealer to confirm ratings and ensure your setup meets all safety and regulatory requirements.
Practical towing tips for a Durango with a car trailer
Apply these practical considerations to maximize safety and control while towing:
- Pre-tow checklist: Inspect tires, hitch connection, lighting, and trailer brakes; verify tongue weight and hitch tightness.
- Drive conservatively: Allow extra stopping distance, accelerate slowly, and make wide turns to avoid jackknifing or trailer swing.
- Braking and speed: Use lower speeds on grades and maintain steady speeds; use cruise control with caution on long ascents.
- Route planning: Plan for lower clearances, tighter turns, and safe places to pull over if you need to check the load.
- Regular maintenance: Keep the transmission cooler, cooling system, and fluids in good condition, especially when towing.
Following these practices helps ensure a stable towing experience and protects both your Durango and the trailer you’re pulling.
Summary
In short, a Durango can tow a car trailer within its rated limits. The maximum capacity depends on engine choice and equipment, with approximate top figures ranging from about 6,000 pounds (V6) up to around 8,700 pounds (6.4L Hemi) when properly equipped. Always verify your exact rating for your model year and VIN, equip the correct hitch and towing package, and follow safe towing practices and local regulations. For routine or heavy towing, consult a dealer to confirm specifications and ensure compliance.
How much weight will a Dodge Durango pull?
The 2026 Dodge Durango distinguishes itself as a powerhouse in the three-row SUV segment, boasting a best-in-class maximum towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped.
Which Durango is best for towing?
The 2024 Dodge Durango SUV can tow up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped with its available 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Choose a Durango fitted with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 for a 7,200-pound towing capacity or the 3.6-liter V-6 engine for a 6,200-pound tow rating when properly equipped.
Can you pull a trailer with a Dodge Durango?
Yes, a Dodge Durango can tow a trailer, and it's capable of handling a wide range of towing duties. Its towing capacity varies significantly by engine, with the V6 engine typically towing up to 6,200 pounds, while the V8 and supercharged V8 models can tow up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped with the Tow N Go package.
This video demonstrates how the Durango's V6 engine handles towing: 59sThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Apr 30, 2019
Towing capacity by engine
- 3.6L Pentastar® V6: Up to 6,200 pounds
- 5.7L HEMI® V8: Up to 8,700 pounds (with Tow N Go package)
- 6.4L HEMI® V8: Up to 8,700 pounds
- Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 (SRT Hellcat): Up to 8,700 pounds
What to know for maximum capacity
- Tow N Go package: To achieve the 8,700-pound maximum, you must have the factory-installed Tow N Go package.
- Trailer brake controller: The Durango has an integrated trailer brake controller for better control and braking performance.
- Towing features: The Tow N Go package includes features like a Class IV trailer hitch, active dampening suspension, and trailer sway control to improve stability.
- All-wheel drive (AWD): AWD is recommended for better traction, especially in challenging conditions like snow or rain.
You can watch this video to see how the 5.7L V8 engine performs while towing: 1mSauer HorsepowerYouTube · Sep 21, 2020
Types of trailers
The Durango can tow various types of trailers, including:
- Campers (travel trailers, pop-ups, hybrids)
- Horse trailers
- Boats
- ATV trailers
- Other general trailers and recreational toys
Can you put a trailer hitch on a Dodge Durango?
Class 4 Trailer Hitch, 2 Inch Square Receiver, Black, Compatible with Dodge Durango : Jeep Grand Cherokee. DRAW-TITE® Class 4 trailer hitches are the perfect mix of style and strength to get you and your equipment wherever you need to go. This DRAW-TITE Class 4 receiver hitch is rated for up to 7,500 lbs.
