The Dodge Durango has always served as a more hard-edged option in the SUV class with its muscle car DNA, meaning that each Durango often sees 700 horsepower beneath the hood of what is otherwise a cozy, comfortable family wagon. In this review of the newest features of the Dodge Durango, we'll be going over everything that makes the Durango excel in its family SUV capability.
Key Takeaways:
- Durango continues offering strong V6 and V8 options with minimal year-to-year mechanical changes.
- 2026 updates primarily affect technology and standard feature availability.
- Buyers comparing years should weigh incentives against added convenience features.
Is there going to be a 2026 Durango?
Yes, the 2026 Dodge Durango is officially happening, and it receives major updates that reinforce its reputation as one of the most performance-focused midsize SUVs on the market. Dodge has committed to an all-V8 Durango lineup for 2026, making every trim standard with a HEMI engine. Powertrain options include a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 on the GT, a 6.4-liter "392" HEMI V8 for the R/T, and the return of the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 in the SRT Hellcat, delivering extreme performance for enthusiasts. With horsepower and torque increases across the board, the 2026 Durango continues to offer best-in-class towing capability of up to 8,700 pounds, blending muscle-car energy with family-ready utility.
Beyond performance, the 2026 Dodge Durango refresh brings updated styling and modernized technology. Exterior changes include a revised front fascia, slimmer LED headlights, a more aggressive grille design, new wheel options, and bold new paint colors such as B5 Blue and Green Machine. Inside, buyers can expect upgraded materials, improved sound insulation, and enhanced infotainment and driver-assistance tech. The trim lineup continues with GT, R/T, and SRT Hellcat models, including a Hellcat Jailbreak variant, ensuring the Durango remains a standout choice for drivers seeking V8 power, three-row practicality, and unmistakable Dodge performance DNA.
What is the difference between the 2025 and 2026 Dodge Durango?
For the 2025 Dodge Durango, Dodge introduces several special-edition models, but the SUV itself remains largely unchanged. The last major update occurred for the 2021 model year, and the current generation dates all the way back to 2011, making this one of the longest-running midsize SUVs still on sale. Even so, the 2025 Durango continues to appeal to buyers who value traditional SUV character and strong powertrains, especially as it may represent the final opportunity to own the legendary Durango SRT Hellcat, a rare blend of family hauler and dragstrip-ready performance SUV.
Performance remains the Durango's strongest asset, with a capable V6 and multiple V8 engine options delivering muscle-car levels of power and surprisingly agile handling--enough to outperform rivals like the Ford Explorer in past comparisons.
There are many similarities you will find between the 2026 and 2025 model years of the Dodge Durango. Some of these similarities are listed in the table below.
| Options | 2026 Dodge Durango | 2025 Dodge Durango |
|---|---|---|
| 3.7 litre V6 | Standard | Standard |
| 5.7 litre V8 | Optional | Optional |
| 6.2 litre supercharged V8 | Optional | Not Available |
| 6.4 litre V8 | Optional | Not Available |
Is the 2026 Dodge Durango Better than the 2025 Model Year?
The Durango is great for anyone with a family, or for people who enjoy performance SUVs, as its performance in a straight line, even with multiple rows, is something worth respecting. Be sure to come by Alan Jay CDJR in Clewiston to ensure you are treated the Alan Jay Way. We believe in no hidden fees and transparent pricing.