What kind of engine is in a Dodge Durango?
In short, the Dodge Durango offers several engine options depending on trim: a 3.6-liter V6, multiple V8s, and in the high-performance Durango SRT Hellcat, a 6.2-liter supercharged V8.
The Durango’s powertrain lineup has evolved over its modern generations. Engine availability varies by model year and trim, with the core options spanning practical daily driving to serious high-performance capability. Here is a concise guide to the engines you’ll typically encounter in recent Durango models.
Engine options by trim and generation
Below are the main engine configurations that have powered the Durango in its contemporary lineup. Each entry includes the typical horsepower and torque figures and notes on where the engine is usually found.
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 — Approximately 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This is the Durango’s base powertrain, chosen for everyday usability and efficiency.
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8 — About 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, with an 8-speed automatic. This engine adds strong acceleration while maintaining reasonable towing and payload capability.
- 6.4-liter Hemi V8 (392) — Roughly 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, also mated to an 8-speed automatic. Found in higher-performance or sport-oriented models like the Durango SRT.
- 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat) — Around 710 horsepower and roughly 650–707 lb-ft of torque in the Durango SRT Hellcat; a limited, high-performance variant designed for peak speed and track-ready capability.
These engine options illustrate the Durango’s dual focus: practical family utility with the V6 and V8 variants for performance-oriented trims that emphasize power and speed. Availability varies by trim and model year, so not every engine is offered on every version of the Durango.
Performance-focused variant: Durango SRT Hellcat
The Durango SRT Hellcat represents the extreme end of the lineup, pairing a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with enhanced suspension, braking, and cooling systems to deliver top-tier performance for a three-row SUV. This powertrain is incompatible with most of the lower trims and is produced in limited quantities.
Notes on fuel economy and capabilities
Engines range from efficient V6 options to high-performance V8s, and fuel economy will vary significantly by configuration. Towing capacity, off-road capability, and daily usability also depend on the chosen engine and drivetrain setup, so prospective buyers should consider their needs carefully when selecting a Durango.
Summary
The Dodge Durango offers a versatile engine lineup that spans a practical 3.6-liter V6 to robust V8s, including a 6.4-liter option for enhanced performance and a 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi in the Durango SRT Hellcat for extreme speed. Engine availability depends on trim and model year, making it possible to tailor the Durango to daily driving or high-performance ambitions.
