Dodge surprised many enthusiasts earlier this year when the company announced that the 2026 Durango would be offered exclusively with Hemi V8 engines. That decision appeared to mark the end of the long-running 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, an engine that had powered the SUV for years and had become a staple across numerous Stellantis models. However, in a move few expected, Dodge has decided to bring the V6 back into the lineup, giving buyers a more affordable entry point and expanding the powertrain choices once again.
The revived engine is now available in the 2026 Durango GT, which can already be ordered. This familiar 3.6-liter V6 produces 295 horsepower and 352 Nm of torque, performance figures consistent with its previous applications. Its reintroduction has had a noticeable impact on pricing as well. Instead of the earlier $42,695 starting price, the base GT now begins at $38,995. That $3,700 reduction makes the Durango more accessible to a wider range of customers who may not need or want a V8.
There is, however, an important detail to keep in mind. The GT equipped with the V6 comes standard with rear-wheel drive. Buyers who prefer the added traction and security of an all-wheel drive system will need to pay an additional $2,000. Once that option is added, the price difference compared to the V8 shrinks to a more modest $1,700. For many shoppers, this creates a genuine choice: save money with the V6 or spend a little more for the stronger, more capable Hemi.
Speaking of the Hemi, the 5.7-liter V8 remains a centerpiece of the lineup. Producing 360 horsepower and 528 Nm of torque, it delivers a noticeable boost in performance. Dodge claims that the V8-powered Durango can accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, making it about 1.2 seconds quicker than the V6 version. For those who value brisk acceleration and a more muscular driving experience, the extra cost may feel justified.
Dodge has offered limited explanation for the V6’s unexpected return, but the company hinted that the decision is connected to supply limitations affecting the availability of the Hemi V8. Despite this, higher-performance variants remain on the table. The 2026 Durango lineup still includes the supercharged 6.2-liter V8, which produces an impressive 710 horsepower and 874 Nm of torque. This powerhouse engine allows the SRT Hellcat model—priced at $79,995—to sprint from 0 to 96 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 290 km/h.
Adding further variety, Dodge is preparing to launch the 2026 Durango R/T early next year. Expected to come in under $50,000, this version will feature a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 delivering 475 horsepower and 637 Nm of torque, giving customers yet another performance-focused option in the expanding Durango family.