by Return of the V6 Engine
Dodge is bringing the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine back to the Durango model. This engine was previously discontinued earlier this year when the 2026 model transitioned exclusively to Hemi engines. The automaker hinted that this decision is related to supply issues with the Hemi engines.
Availability and Pricing
The now available-for-order 2026 Durango GT model is equipped with the familiar V6 engine, which produces 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Its return allowed the starting price to be reduced from $42,695 to $38,995, which is a significant saving of $3,700.
However, there is one caveat: the base GT version comes standard with rear-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive option adds $2,000 to the cost, reducing the price difference to a more modest $1,700.
Comparison with the Hemi V8 Engine
It might be worth spending the extra money, as the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine produces 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. It allows the model to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which is a full 1.2 seconds faster than the V6 version.
Reasons for Dodge’s Decision
As noted by Dodge CEO Matt McAlear: “The Hemi is very popular… and to support this sales momentum, we are reopening orders for the Durango GT with the V6 engine to help us meet the demand for the Durango while Hemi engine supply increases.”
Other Engine Options
In addition to these two engines, the 2026 Durango model offers a turbocharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. It allows the $79,995 SRT Hellcat model to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph.
Joining these modifications early next year will be the 2026 Durango R/T model. Its price will be less than $50,000, and it will be equipped with a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine producing 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
This decision shows how flexible the modern automotive industry must be in responding to market conditions. Supply chain issues, especially after the pandemic, continue to affect production capacities even for major automakers. The return of the V6 engine allows Dodge to maintain production volumes and meet demand until the situation with Hemi engines stabilizes. It also demonstrates that traditional internal combustion engines still hold importance in the company’s product lineup, despite the overall trend towards electrification.
