How fast is a V6 Durango?
The Dodge Durango with a 3.6-liter V6 produces about 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and with the 8-speed automatic and either rear- or all-wheel drive, it typically reaches 0–60 mph in roughly 6.5–7.5 seconds with a top speed near 125 mph depending on configuration.
Core performance figures
The following figures apply to the widely used 3.6L V6 Durango paired with an eight-speed automatic and available AWD. Variations by trim and year can shift the numbers by a few tenths.
- Engine: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6
- Horsepower: about 295 hp
- Torque: about 260 lb-ft
- Transmission and drive: 8-speed automatic; rear-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available
These figures show the Durango's emphasis on steady, versatile acceleration suitable for daily driving and family use rather than blazing speed.
Real-world acceleration and top speed
In real-world testing and day-to-day driving, the Durango's speed is affected by payload, fuel, tires, and whether it is RWD or AWD. The numbers below reflect typical ranges observed across model years.
- 0–60 mph: approximately 6.5–7.5 seconds, with AWD generally a touch slower due to added weight and traction control.
- Top speed: around 125 mph (electronically limited on most trims).
For most buyers, the V6 Durango provides confident highway merging and overtaking capability, but it won't match the immediacy of the V8-powered versions.
Trims, years and what that means for speed
Even though the engine is shared, weight, suspension, tires, and drivetrain influence acceleration. Here’s how variations typically play out across configuration.
Notes on year-by-year changes
Since the Durango's introduction of the 3.6L Pentastar in 2011, output has remained near 295 hp and 260 lb-ft, with refinements to throttle mapping and transmission tuning over the years. Tires and aero changes across model years can modestly affect 0–60 times and top speed.
- Weight and drivetrain: AWD adds mass, often slowing 0–60 slightly compared with RWD.
- Tire/wheel sizes: Larger wheels can raise rolling resistance and alter acceleration feel.
- Variant note: The V8-powered Durangos (R/T, SRT) offer faster acceleration; the discussion here concerns the V6 model only.
In summary, the V6 Durango balances everyday practicality with respectable performance, while true speed enthusiasts may prefer the V8 variants for quicker sprints.
Summary
The V6 Durango, powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar producing about 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic, offers approx 0–60 times in the mid-to-high six seconds to low-seven seconds range and a top speed near 125 mph. Real-world results vary by drivetrain (RWD vs. AWD), trim, year, weight, and tire choice. It prioritizes everyday usability and family-friendly practicality over raw speed.
