What is the best engine in the Dodge Durango?

The best engine in a Dodge Durango depends on what you value most: sheer horsepower, daily practicality, or fuel efficiency. If you want the highest horsepower available in a Durango, the Hellcat option would be it, but it isn’t a standard, widely available choice in all model years. Among engines you can generally buy today, the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 delivers the strongest performance, while the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel offers the best fuel economy. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 remains the baseline for balanced everyday driving.

Current engine options

Here are the engines Dodge has offered for the Durango in recent years, along with rough outputs and typical applications.

• 3.6L Pentastar V6 — roughly 295 hp and about 260 lb-ft of torque; widely used across Durango trims and paired with an eight-speed automatic and available AWD.


• 5.7L Hemi V8 — about 360 hp (roughly 395 hp with eTorque) and 390–410 lb-ft of torque; strong acceleration for a family SUV and common in mid-to-high trims.


• 6.4L Hemi V8 (392) — around 475 hp and about 470 lb-ft of torque; the top non-SRT performance engine, used in Durango SRT variants.


• 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 — about 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque; best for highway fuel economy and long-range capability.


• Durango SRT Hellcat (6.2L supercharged Hemi) — power exceeding 700 hp; limited availability and not a regular production option in all years; intended for buyers seeking extreme straight‑line speed.

In short, the best engine for you hinges on what you value: everyday practicality and efficiency point you toward the EcoDiesel or V6; outright performance toward the 6.4L Hemi V8; and extreme power toward the Hellcat variant when it’s available.

Choosing the right Durango engine for your needs

Performance-focused buyers will favor the 6.4L Hemi V8 for the Durango’s strongest standard-power experience, while those chasing maximum horsepower would pursue the Hellcat option if it’s available in their market or model year. Families and daily drivers typically choose the 3.6L V6 for a solid, balanced blend of power and efficiency, with the EcoDiesel offering the best fuel economy and long-distance comfort.

Best balance of power and efficiency

The sweet spot for many Durango owners is the 6.4L Hemi V8, delivering robust performance without stepping into the extreme power of the Hellcat. If fuel economy is a priority, the EcoDiesel is the standout choice, especially for highway-centric use or when you need range between fill-ups.

Best for maximum power (when available)

The Durango SRT Hellcat would be the pinnacle for horsepower, delivering most of the lineup’s potential in a single model. Availability varies by year and market, so potential buyers should check current dealer offerings and any limited-run announcements from Dodge.

Availability and what to expect in the market

Dodge has historically offered a multi-engine lineup for the Durango, with the V6, V8, and EcoDiesel options remaining the core choices. The high-horsepower Durango SRT Hellcat has been teased and discussed in various years, but it is not a universal, year-by-year staple in the same way as the other engines. Prospective buyers should confirm current model-year options with a local dealership, as availability can change with product cycles, emissions regulations, and supply conditions.

Summary

The best Durango engine depends on your priorities. For top-end power in standard production, the 6.4L Hemi V8 is the strongest performer. For maximum horsepower, the Hellcat variant would be the peak option when offered. For everyday balance and practicality, the 3.6L V6 remains a solid baseline, and if you want the best highway fuel economy, the 3.0L EcoDiesel is the clear choice. Always verify current model-year specifications and availability with dealers, as Dodge’s engine lineup can shift between generations.

Is the 3.6 Durango a good engine?

As another person mentioned, the 3.6L V6 and 8-speed auto is a reliable powertrain. Any vehicle at that mileage will start needing some maintenance items like brakes, wheel bearings , etc.

Which Durango engine is the most reliable?

The most reliable Dodge Durango engines are the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the 5.7L HEMI V8. The Pentastar V6 is often cited as the best for long-term, everyday reliability due to its widespread use, while the HEMI V8 is praised for its durability and ability to last for high mileage when properly maintained. 
3.6L Pentastar V6 

• Pros: Considered the most reliable option for long-term ownership and daily driving. It is used across multiple Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models, meaning it's well-tested and affordable to maintain. 
• Cons: Can feel underpowered for a vehicle this size, and some owners report it downshifts frequently. 

5.7L HEMI V8 

• Pros: Has a reputation for being very durable and capable of reaching over 200,000 miles. It provides significantly more power and towing capacity than the V6. 
• Cons: Can have more oil leaks from certain points (e.g., valve covers, front cover) compared to the V6. Higher maintenance costs are expected due to its higher performance and fuel consumption. 

Other engines

• 5.2L Magnum V8: Avoid earlier models with this engine, as it had numerous problems including oil pressure issues. 
• 6.4L HEMI (SRT): While the SRT has zero recalls, it is a high-performance engine that requires more maintenance and is more expensive to operate. 

What is better, a Durango GT or RT?

R/T trims fetch a higher price due to their more potent engines and performance upgrades, while GT models offer a balance of sporty design and everyday drivability.

What is Dodge's most reliable engine?

The most reliable Dodge engines are the Chrysler 318 V8 (and its successor, the 318 Magnum) for its long history of durability, and the 3.6L Pentastar V6 for its balance of fuel efficiency and dependability in modern vehicles. Other strong options include the 5.7L HEMI and the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel, though the HEMI can have more complex maintenance and the Cummins requires specific care.
 
Classic reliability

• 318 V8 (LA and Magnum): Praised for its straightforward, robust design and cast iron construction, making it resilient and easy to maintain. It has a reputation for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles with proper care. 
• 318 Magnum: The evolutionary successor to the LA-series 318, sharing many of its reliable characteristics. 

Modern reliability

• 3.6L Pentastar V6: A reliable choice for those prioritizing fuel economy and durability in modern trucks like the RAM 1500. It has proven its worth across various Stellantis vehicles and is considered a solid, dependable option. 
• 5.7L HEMI: A good and solid engine that is expected to provide good reliability and longevity when well-maintained. Many drivers report it lasting over 200,000 miles. 

Heavy-duty and specialized reliability 

• 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Known for exceptional durability and high torque, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty towing and long-term use. It is particularly reliable due to its robust design and extensive aftermarket support. 
• 6.4L HEMI: While less common in passenger cars, this naturally aspirated V8 is considered a premium, durable option for heavy-duty trucks. It is a proven engine with a long history in the HD truck segment.