What is a Dodge 3.6 liter engine?
The Dodge 3.6-liter engine is the 3.6L Pentastar V6, a modern, lightweight powerplant used across many Dodge models. It is a 60-degree V6 with an aluminum block and heads, featuring variable valve timing and, in many variants, direct injection. It is designed to balance performance with everyday efficiency.
In detail, the engine was introduced as part of Chrysler’s Pentastar family around 2010 and quickly became a workhorse for Dodge’s lineup. It has powered sedans, coupes, and SUVs — notably the Challenger, Charger, and Durango — as well as several other FCA vehicles. Over the years, it has evolved with technology refinements such as direct injection on select versions and ongoing improvements in fuel efficiency, emissions, and compatibility with various automatic transmissions.
Origins and design
The 3.6-liter engine is part of the Pentastar V6 family, which was developed to standardize and improve several FCA brands’ powertrains. This particular engine uses a compact, lightweight 60-degree V6 layout with an aluminum block and cylinder heads, helping to reduce weight without sacrificing rigidity. It employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with 24 valves and variable valve timing on both banks, enabling smoother power delivery and better efficiency across a broad RPM range. Over its life, some versions adopted direct fuel injection in addition to traditional multi-point injection to boost performance and efficiency.
As a member of the broader Pentastar lineup, the 3.6L has been paired with a range of automatic transmissions chosen by model year and vehicle class, including five-, six-, eight-, and in some applications nine-speed automatics. This flexibility has helped Dodge offer the engine in both performance-oriented and family-hauler configurations, aligning with consumer expectations for capability and reliability.
Key specifications and features
Below are core specifications and features that define the 3.6L Pentastar in Dodge applications.
- Displacement: 3.6 liters
- Configuration: V6, 60-degree bank angle
- Block and head material: Aluminum (lightweight construction)
- Valvetrain: Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, variable valve timing (VVT) on both banks
- Fuel system: Historically multi-point injection; many variants also incorporate direct injection
- Transmissions: Paired with a range of automatics (typically 5-, 6-, 8-, or 9-speed, depending on year and model)
- Power output and torque: Approximately 283–305 horsepower and 260–273 lb-ft of torque, depending on year, model, and configuration
- Applications scope: Designed to deliver a balance of everyday drivability and notable performance in Dodge lineup
In summary, the 3.6L Pentastar is a versatile, mid-sized V6 that has underpinned Dodge’ mid-range and performance-oriented models for more than a decade, thanks to its combination of light weight, refined torque delivery, and adaptable engineering.
Dodge model applications
The 3.6-liter Pentastar has been a staple powertrain in several Dodge models, delivering a practical blend of performance and everyday usability.
- Dodge Challenger
- Dodge Charger
- Dodge Durango
- Dodge Grand Caravan (and other minivan variants in markets where sold)
- Dodge Journey (in earlier production years before discontinuation)
These applications illustrate the engine’s role as a flexible foundation for both high-performance and family-oriented Dodge vehicles, capable of smooth cruising as well as confident acceleration when required.
Performance and efficiency notes
Because the 3.6L Pentastar is used across multiple models and trim levels, performance and fuel efficiency vary depending on the specific configuration, drivetrain, and transmission. In general, drivers can expect strong mid-range torque, responsive everyday acceleration, and competitive highway fuel economy for its class, with variations driven by direct injection usage, vehicle weight, and transmission tuning.
As technology and emissions standards evolved, Dodge and FCA refined the engine with updates that improved efficiency and drivability without sacrificing the characteristic smoothness of a six-cylinder powerplant. Prospective buyers and owners should consult the exact specifications for their model year to understand the precise output and fuel economy figures.
Summary
The Dodge 3.6-liter engine is the practical, versatile 3.6L Pentastar V6 that has powered a broad swath of Dodge vehicles since 2010. Its aluminum construction, DOHC design, and variable valve timing enable a balance of performance and efficiency, with direct injection appearing in certain variants. Paired with a range of automatic transmissions, it has served as a cornerstone powertrain for Dodge’s mid-range and performance-oriented offerings, reinforcing Dodge’s appeal through a dependable, adaptable engine platform.
