Which engine is used in Dodge?

Dodge does not rely on a single engine across all models. The brand uses multiple engines, most notably the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, the 6.4-liter Hemi V8, and the 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi in its high-performance Hellcat variants.

Current engine families in Dodge models

Below are the core engine families that power Dodge cars and SUVs today, highlighting how the lineup balances everyday practicality with high-performance capability.

• 3.6-liter Pentastar V6: A versatile workhorse used across many Dodge models for a balance of performance and efficiency.


• 5.7-liter Hemi V8: A traditional V8 that delivers strong torque and a classic V-shaped roar, common in performance and family variants.


• 6.4-liter Hemi V8: A higher-output V8 found in more performance-oriented trims, delivering substantial horsepower and acceleration.


• 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8: The Hellcat family’s engine, producing extreme horsepower for the brand’s top-tier performance models.

These engines form the backbone of Dodge’s current lineup, with tuning and configuration varying by model and year to suit different performance and efficiency targets.

Notable historical engines that shaped the Dodge legacy

Long before the modern lineup, Dodge built a reputation around iconic V8s and performance-focused motors that defined the muscle-car era and Mopar performance heritage. This list highlights some of the standout engines from Dodge’s past.

• 426 Hemi: The legendary hemispherical-head V8 that powered classics like the Dodge Charger R/T and Daytona in the late 1960s and early 1970s.


• 340 and 383/440 Magnums: Large-displacement or high-revving small-block engines used in various Charger, Challenger, and Barracuda models, shaping the era’s performance image.


• 5.9 Magnum: A widely used V8 in Dodge trucks and cars during the 1990s and early 2000s, known for reliability and torque.


• Other era-defining Hemi variants: Throughout the muscle-car era, Dodge offered a range of Hemi configurations that solidified the brand’s association with high power and performance.

These historic engines illustrate Dodge’s enduring emphasis on big-displacement power and high-performance engineering that continues to influence modern designs.

Model-by-model guide to common powertrains

Here is a general reference for which engines are typically offered in the core Dodge lineup. Availability can vary by trim and year, so always check current specifications for a given vehicle.

Challenger

Engines commonly offered: 3.6L Pentastar V6; 5.7L Hemi V8; 6.4L Hemi V8; 6.2L supercharged Hemi (Hellcat).

Charger

Engines commonly offered: 3.6L Pentastar V6; 5.7L Hemi V8; 6.4L Hemi V8; 6.2L supercharged Hemi (Hellcat).

Durango

Engines commonly offered: 3.6L Pentastar V6; 5.7L Hemi V8; 6.4L Hemi V8 (in higher-performance variants).

Summary

In place of a single engine, Dodge relies on a family of powertrains designed to cover everyday driving needs and high-performance thrills. The current lineup centers on the 3.6L Pentastar V6 for efficiency, the 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi V8s for stronger performance, and the 6.2L supercharged Hemi for Hellcat-level power. The brand’s legacy is steeped in historic V8 engines like the 426 Hemi, which helped define Dodge’s performance identity. For any given model and year, exact engine availability can vary, so recent specifications should be consulted for precision.

What engine does Dodge use?

A powerhouse for over 2 decades, the 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine has a reputation for delivering incredible power with lasting durability. This engine has become a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts that demand performance. The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine lives up to its reputation and is the standard engine on Durango R/T.

Who builds Dodge engines?

Dodge engines are made by Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge, and its manufacturing plants in the United States and Mexico. Historically, other companies have also contributed engines for specific Dodge models, such as Cummins, which makes the diesel engines used in RAM trucks.
 
Modern Dodge engines

• Stellantis: The parent company manufactures many of the modern gasoline engines, including the HEMI V8s and the 3.6L Pentastar V6, at facilities like the Saltillo Engine Plant in Mexico and the Trenton Engine Complex and Dundy plant in Michigan. 
• Cummins: For many years, Cummins Inc. has produced the diesel engines for Dodge and RAM trucks, with collaborations beginning as early as 1989. 

Other engine contributors

• Historical partnerships: Past engine offerings have included collaborations with other automakers. For example, some Dodge Journey models used engines sourced from Mitsubishi (World Engine class) and Volkswagen (diesel engines). 
• Mopar performance engines: Mopar provides a range of performance and "crate" engines, including various versions of the HEMI, for restoration and custom builds. 

Does Dodge use HEMI engines?

This engine has been used in the following vehicles: 2003–present Ram 1500. 2004–present Dodge Durango. 2005–2008 Dodge Magnum R/T.

Is Cummins or HEMI better?

The main differences are that the HEMI is a gas engine that is better for general driving due to its higher horsepower, faster throttle response, and higher payload capacity, while the Cummins is a diesel engine that excels at heavy towing due to its significantly higher torque. The choice depends on your primary use: choose HEMI for a more responsive daily driver with a higher payload, and choose Cummins for maximum towing and hauling power.
 
This video compares the acceleration and fuel economy of a RAM 2500 with a Hemi engine and one with a Cummins turbo diesel engine: 25sJB ReviewsYouTube · Sep 9, 2021
HEMI (gasoline engine)

• Best for: Daily driving, general hauling, and tasks where immediate throttle response is desired. 
• Pros:
  • Horsepower: Higher horsepower output (e.g., 405 hp405 hp405 hp). 
  • Throttle response: Feels quicker and more responsive during unloaded driving due to quicker revving. 
  • Payload capacity: Generally has a higher payload capacity because the engine is lighter than the diesel. 
  • Cost: Typically a lower initial purchase price. 
  • Maintenance: Lower maintenance costs compared to a diesel, with shorter oil change intervals and no need for DEF (diesel exhaust fluid). 
• Cons:
  • Lower torque compared to the Cummins, making it less ideal for extremely heavy towing. 

Cummins (diesel engine)

• Best for: Heavy-duty towing and hauling, such as large fifth wheels, equipment, or heavy machinery. 
• Pros:
  • Torque: Produces significantly more torque, especially at low RPMs, which is essential for pulling heavy loads. 
  • Towing capacity: Can tow much heavier loads. 
  • Towing efficiency: The engine's built-in exhaust brake helps reduce wear on the brakes during heavy towing. 
  • Longevity: Known for durability and has a longer lifespan due to its "overbuilt" components. 
  • Resale value: Often has a higher resale value. 
• Cons:
  • Cost: Higher initial purchase price. 
  • Engine weight: The engine is heavier, which lowers the truck's overall payload capacity. 
  • Maintenance: More complex emissions systems (like DEF) and longer oil change intervals than the Hemi. 
  • Performance: Can feel slower and less responsive during unloaded driving due to its weight and design for torque over horsepower. 

This video discusses the fuel efficiency of the 6.4L Hemi vs 6.7L Cummins in a Ram 2500: 47sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 18, 2022