How much horsepower does a Dodge 3.6 liter V6 24 valve VVT engine have?

The Dodge 3.6L V6 24V VVT engine typically delivers about 283 horsepower in its earlier configurations, with later variants reaching up to around 305 horsepower depending on the specific model and year.

The question covers a family of engines used across multiple Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep vehicles. Because the 3.6L Pentastar V6 with variable valve timing has been tuned for different applications over more than a decade, the exact horsepower figure depends on the vehicle’s year, trim, and transmission. This article outlines the general ranges and how to verify your exact specification.

Overview of the 3.6L V6 24V VVT and why horsepower varies

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is a DOHC, 24-valve engine with variable valve timing. It powers a wide range of Dodge cars and SUVs, from sporty coupes to family crossovers. Small changes in tuning, emissions requirements, and drivetrain (such as the number of gears in the automatic transmission) can alter the peak horsepower slightly from one model year to the next.

Representative horsepower ranges

Before listing the typical power outputs, note that figures are approximate and reflect commonly cited specs across multiple Dodge models. For a precise number, consult the specific vehicle’s window sticker or owner’s manual.

• Early configurations (roughly 2011–2014): ~283 horsepower and ~260 lb-ft of torque.


• Later configurations and trims (roughly 2015 onward): up to ~305 horsepower, with torque typically in the ~260–269 lb-ft range.

In practice, most customers will encounter a horsepower figure in the high 200s, moving toward 300 horsepower on many mid-to-late 2010s applications, depending on the exact model and market.

Check your exact specification

To confirm the precise horsepower for a given vehicle, verify the VIN, check the door jamb sticker, or refer to the original window sticker. Small regional or model-year differences can yield different official ratings for the same engine.

Summary

The Dodge 3.6L V6 24V VVT engine generally delivers about 283 horsepower in its earlier iterations, with later versions rated up to roughly 305 horsepower. Torque typically falls in the 260–269 lb-ft range. For any specific vehicle, always confirm the exact figure from official documentation or the vehicle’s labeling.

How much horsepower does a 3.6 L V6 24v VVT eTorque engine have?

How much horsepower and torque does the base 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque generate? The base 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque has 305 horsepower. It also has 271 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the top six-cylinder engine in its class.

What is the problem with the 3.6 L Pentastar VVT V6?

Symptoms of this issue include engine misfiring and decreased performance, premature wear on other engine components, and engine failure. Early signs of this wear are often presented as a distinct ticking sound (dubbed ``Pentastar Tick'') that starts soft but gradually becomes louder after time.

What does 3.6 L V6 24V VVT mean?

The designation "3.6 L V6 24v VVT" describes a vehicle's engine: 3.6 L means its displacement is 3.6 liters, V6 indicates it has six cylinders arranged in a 'V' shape, 24v means it has 24 valves (four valves per cylinder), and VVT stands for Variable Valve Timing, a system that optimizes engine performance, fuel economy, and emissions. 
This video explains how Variable Valve Timing works: 38sReignited - Cycle and AutomotiveYouTube · Dec 30, 2023

• 3.6 L: The engine's displacement is 3.6 liters. Larger displacements generally mean more power potential. 
• V6: The engine has six cylinders arranged in a 'V' shape, a common configuration for many vehicles. 
• 24v: There are 24 valves in total. With six cylinders, this means there are four valves per cylinder (two intake and two exhaust), which allows for better airflow and combustion. 
• VVT: Variable Valve Timing is a system that adjusts the timing of the engine's intake and exhaust valves to improve performance, fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions. It allows the engine to deliver more torque at lower speeds and more horsepower at higher speeds without sacrificing overall efficiency. 

You can watch this video to learn about the Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine: 51sjmcGarageYouTube · Feb 24, 2024

How much horsepower does a 3.6 L V6 24v VVT have?

The horsepower for a 3.6L V6 24V VVT engine typically ranges from 280 to 305 horsepower, depending on the specific vehicle and year. For example, a Jeep Wrangler equipped with this engine produces 285 horsepower, while a Ram 1500 with the Pentastar V6 and eTorque system can produce 305 horsepower. 
This video explains the Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine and its specifications: 59sMarspeedYouTube · Apr 5, 2021

• Jeep Wrangler: Produces 285 horsepower. 
• Ram 1500 (with eTorque): Produces 305 horsepower. 
• Other applications: Horsepower can vary slightly between different models and years, with many versions falling in the 280 to 305 hp range. 

This video provides a heavy mechanic review of the Ram 1500's 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine: 59sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 17, 2023