Powerful Engines for the Dodge Durango
In August, Dodge announced that all 2026 Durango models would be equipped with V8 engines, including the 5.7-liter, 6.4-liter, and supercharged 6.2-liter, which thrilled car enthusiasts.
Restrictions for CARB States
However, this news had an important caveat: the R/T 392 model with the 6.4-liter engine and the Hellcat were approved for sale only in states that do not adhere to CARB standards. This meant that residents of the 17 CARB-regulated states could not order the more powerful Durango versions, except for the base model with the 5.7-liter engine producing 360 horsepower.
Expanded Availability
Fortunately, Dodge quickly responded to the situation and last month opened orders for the new models in 10 CARB states. Approval for the remaining 7 states is expected by the end of this year, which will allow the sale of the R/T 392 and Hellcat nationwide. Orders are currently available in Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Virginia. California, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Washington, and Vermont remain.
Technical Details
Information about the future CARB approval for models with the 6.4-liter and supercharged 6.2-liter engines came from a dealer guide published by Mopar Insiders. It is unclear exactly what changes Dodge made to the Durango to ensure its sale in all states. Although the 2026 Durango is available to private customers only with three V8 engines, the company continues to produce the SUV with the 3.6-liter naturally aspirated Pentastar V6 engine, but this version is intended exclusively for government and corporate customers.
This step demonstrates how automakers are adapting to environmental requirements without abandoning powerful engines. The increased availability of the Durango with a V8 could enhance its competitiveness in the market, especially among fans of powerful cars who appreciate the combination of SUV practicality and high performance.