Is Dodge Durango a fast car?
The quick answer: not in its base form, but the top-tier Durango SRT Hellcat is exceptionally fast for an SUV, with straight-line speed that can rival many sports cars. The rest of the lineup prioritizes practicality and comfort over outright speed.
Beyond the extreme variant, the Durango is a midsize SUV designed around utility, towing capacity, and family practicality. Speed varies widely by trim, from capable daily-driving powertrains to a supercharged V8 that delivers race-inspired acceleration. Here is a closer look at how the Durango’s performance breaks down.
Performance variants
The following outlines the main Durango trims and how they translate to speed and acceleration.
- Durango SXT/GT: 3.6L V6 engine around 295 horsepower; aimed at everyday driving with practical towing and space, not a sports-car speed demon.
- Durango RT: 5.7L Hemi V8 with roughly 360 horsepower; noticeably stronger acceleration than the V6 models and improved highway passing power.
- Durango SRT Hellcat: 6.2L supercharged Hemi V8 producing about 710 horsepower; designed for extreme straight-line speed and track-inspired performance for an SUV.
In plain terms, the lineup spans from capable daily drivers to a supercar-like SUV. The Hellcat is the standout for speed, while the other trims emphasize utility with adequate power.
Notes on speed figures
Approximate ranges for 0-60 mph and top speed vary by year, drivetrain, tires, and options. The figures below reflect common specifications across recent model years, with the Hellcat representing the extreme end of the spectrum.
- Durango SXT/GT: 0-60 typically in the high 7- to low 8-second range; top speed around 120–130 mph.
- Durango RT: 0-60 typically in the mid-5-second range; top speed around 140–150 mph.
- Durango SRT Hellcat: 0-60 around 3.5 seconds; top speed near 180 mph.
These figures are approximate and can vary by model year, drivetrain (RWD vs. AWD), and the presence of performance tires or other options. Always check the official spec sheet for your exact vehicle.
How it stacks up against sports cars
For straight-line speed, the Durango SRT Hellcat is competitive with many high-performance sedans and sport coupes, especially in a drag race or straight-line sprint. However, the Durango remains a heavy SUV with a tall center of gravity, so handling, braking, and cornering dynamics typically lag behind dedicated sports cars and many modern high-performance coupes. If your goal is track-ready agility, a sports car or performance coupe will generally outperform even the Durango’s fastest variant; if you want space, practicality, and a straight-line thrill, the Durango SRT Hellcat stands out in its class.
Summary
Speed in the Dodge Durango is highly variant-by-variant. Base Durangos are practical family SUVs with modest acceleration, while the Durango SRT Hellcat offers exceptional straight-line performance that can rival many sports cars in a straight line. For everyday use, the Durango provides space and capability; for extreme acceleration, the Hellcat version is the exceptional outlier in the lineup.
