The Dodge Durango has traditionally offered a mix of gasoline V6 and V8 engines, with a diesel option in older generations. In today's lineup, buyers primarily choose between a 3.6-liter V6 with mild-hybrid assist and larger V8s in performance-oriented trims.
This article breaks down the Durango’s engine options across its generations, highlighting what’s currently available, what’s historic, and how different trims—such as the high-performance SRT variant—use different powertrains. It also notes that the EcoDiesel V6 was offered in earlier years but is no longer available on new models.
Current engine options
The following engines are currently associated with Durango models on sale in recent years, along with typical powertrain specifics that apply across trims (transmission and drivetrains vary by configuration).
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with mild-hybrid eTorque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This is the standard engine on most trims and delivers robust daily-versatility with improved low-end response.
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8, also mated to an 8-speed automatic. This engine provides stronger acceleration and towing capability for higher-demand configurations.
- 6.4-liter Hemi V8 used in the high-performance Durango SRT, delivering substantially higher horsepower and torque for sport-oriented driving experiences.
Across these options, output figures are typically cited in the neighborhood of roughly 295 hp and 260 lb-ft for the 3.6L V6, about 360 hp and 390 lb-ft for the 5.7L V8, and around 475 hp and 470 lb-ft for the 6.4L V8 in SRT models. Exact numbers can vary by model year and drivetrain configuration.
Durango SRT engine highlight
The Durango SRT is the performance flagship and uses the 6.4-liter Hemi V8. It’s tuned for higher horsepower and torque, paired with a performance-oriented suspension, braking system, and all-wheel-drive setup that suits enthusiasts seeking track-like capability in a family SUV.
Note that the SRT variant is not available on base trims and is positioned as the top-end model in the Durango lineup for the model years it’s offered.
Diesel and older options
In earlier generations, the Durango offered a diesel option that appealed to buyers prioritizing towing efficiency and highway fuel economy. This EcoDiesel V6 is no longer available on new Durango models as of recent years, but it remains a part of the model’s historical engine lineup.
- 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 (discontinued after 2019 in most markets), delivering a balance of torque for towing and better highway efficiency compared to gasoline counterparts.
Power output for the EcoDiesel varied by year, but it typically provided a steady amount of low-end torque with less peak horsepower than the gasoline V6 or V8 options. Availability depended on model year and regional regulations.
Summary
Historically, the Dodge Durango has offered a trio of main engine families: a modern 3.6L V6 with eTorque, a 5.7L Hemi V8 for enhanced performance, and a 6.4L Hemi V8 for the SRT performance model. A diesel option (3.0L EcoDiesel V6) was available in earlier generations but is not offered on current new models. Buyers today typically choose between the 3.6L V6 for daily driving and the 5.7L or 6.4L V8 for higher performance or towing needs. As always, exact power figures and availability can vary by model year and trim level.