“whoever thought it was a good idea to NOT be able to turn OFF the radio should be fired. The GPS is sorely out of date and no one can tell me how to get it updated.”
Dodge Durango: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026

The Dodge Durango is a three-row midsize SUV that blends family seating and cargo space with strong towing ability and a distinctly performance-focused character. It is known for offering everything from practical V6 power to muscular V8 engines, including the 710-hp SRT Hellcat.
Across its history, the Durango’s defining theme has been family utility with more muscle than a typical three-row crossover. The 2011 redesign made it quieter and more road-friendly without giving up its V8 power or towing focus. Later R/T, SRT, and Hellcat models pushed performance further, while V6 versions kept an everyday entry point in the range.
Strengths
- Three rows and flexible cargo room make it useful for daily family duty.
- Towing is a genuine strength, with the gas-powered 2027 lineup rated as high as 8,700 pounds.
- Its rear-drive-based layout gives it a more driver-focused feel than the usual family crossover.
- The engine range spans sensible V6 models and unusually strong V8s, with the 2027 SRT Hellcat reaching 710 horsepower.
- The cabin became much more modern with the 2021 refresh, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen became standard across the lineup for 2025.
Who it's for
The Durango best fits families who need three rows and useful cargo space but do not want a conventional family crossover. It makes the most sense for drivers who also care about towing, strong acceleration, engine sound, and a cabin designed around the driver.
Dodge Durango lineup
The GT has long been the everyday, sport-styled choice, historically pairing the Durango’s family layout with V6 power. Since 2026, GT HEMI versions have added V8 character without moving straight to the more serious performance models, while Plus and Premium names mark steps up in equipment. The R/T is the traditional V8 performance trim, and the R/T 392 versions introduced for 2026 turn up that role with a 475-hp 6.4-liter V8. Pick an SRT Hellcat when maximum acceleration is the priority; the 710-hp Hellcat and newer Jailbreak version sit at the top of the range.
Dodge Durango generations
From 2009 to 2026, the Durango spans two generations. The current 3rd Generation arrived for 2011, following the 2nd Generation (2004–2009).
3rd Generation (2011–Present)
The 2011 redesign replaced the old truck-based Durango with a more road-friendly body structure, independent suspension, and a quieter cabin. Major updates in 2014 and 2021 modernized the transmission, styling, interior, and touchscreen technology, while later SRT and Hellcat models expanded the performance side of the lineup.
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2026Trim changes
HEMI V8 power expanded into the GT range, the R/T gained a 475-hp 6.4-liter V8, and the SRT Hellcat Jailbreak and America250 editions joined the lineup.
2025Trim changes
A 10.1-inch touchscreen system became standard across the lineup. New R/T anniversary and SRT Hellcat collector editions also arrived.
2024Trim changes
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert became standard, and the SRT 392 AlcHEMI special edition joined the lineup.
2023Trim changes
Dodge reorganized the trims into base, Plus, and Premium levels. The SRT Hellcat returned after a one-year break, alongside new special editions.
2022Trim changes
New GT Plus and R/T Plus trims joined the lineup. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and third-row seating became standard.
2021Mid-cycle update
The Durango received sharper exterior styling, a redesigned dashboard and center console, and an updated touchscreen system. The 710-hp SRT Hellcat also debuted.
2020
Mostly a carryover year, with only minor package-detail changes for the R/T.
2019Trim changes
The towing package gained an integrated trailer-brake controller, while several trims received small equipment and appearance updates.
2018Trim changes
The 475-hp SRT performance model joined the lineup. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a new shifter, and a sport steering wheel became standard.
2017Trim changes
The GT replaced the Limited as the main sporty V6 trim. The base SXT also stopped making three-row seating standard.
2016Trim changes
V6 models gained automatic stop/start, and Sport Mode became standard across the lineup.
2015Trim changes
Appearance packages spread to more trims, and a Beats premium audio system arrived. The engines, cabin layout, and chassis carried over.
2014Mid-cycle update
Updated front and rear styling, revised touchscreens and gauges, and a standard eight-speed automatic transformed the lineup.
2013
Carryover year with the same body, engines, and main trim structure.
2012Trim changes
HEMI V8 models gained a six-speed automatic, while the basic design and engine strategy stayed the same.
2011New generation
The Durango returned after a one-year break with a car-like body structure, independent suspension, a quieter cabin, and a new 3.6-liter V6.
2nd Generation (2004–2009)
This was the final version of the truck-based Durango before the model skipped 2010 and returned fully redesigned for 2011. Its last model year added a hybrid that paired a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with four-wheel drive.
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2009Trim changes
The Limited Hybrid joined the lineup, and the regular 5.7-liter HEMI V8 received efficiency-related updates.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Dodge Durango.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is the Dodge Durango?
The Dodge Durango is a midsize SUV built around family space, strong towing and road-focused driving. Most versions have three rows, while V8 models give it a more performance-oriented character than a typical family crossover.
What is the Dodge Durango known for?
The Durango is known for combining useful passenger and cargo space with unusually powerful V8 engines. Its lineup stretches from everyday V6 family models to the 710-hp SRT Hellcat.
Does every Dodge Durango have three rows?
No. Most Durangos seat up to seven across three rows, but there are exceptions. The early Heat was a five-seat model, some base versions lacked a standard third row, and newer SRT Hellcats use a five-seat layout focused on cargo room.
Does the Dodge Durango come as a hybrid?
Yes, but only for 2009. The Limited Hybrid paired a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with two electric motors and standard four-wheel drive. Durangos from the current generation introduced for 2011 use gasoline engines.
What engines are found in used Dodge Durangos?
Used Durangos include a 3.6-liter V6 and several V8s: a 5.7-liter HEMI, a 6.4-liter HEMI and the Hellcat’s supercharged 6.2-liter engine. Trim and engine pairings changed by era, especially for the R/T.
Is the Dodge Durango good for towing?
Yes. Towing is one of the Durango’s main strengths, especially with a V8 and factory trailer equipment. Newer performance versions reach 8,700 pounds, though the rating varies by engine, drivetrain, equipment and model year.
Has the Dodge Durango been the same generation for a long time?
Yes. Most used Durangos from 2011 onward belong to the third generation. Dodge gave it major updates for 2014 and 2021 rather than replacing it. The older second generation ended in 2009, followed by a one-model-year gap.
Who is the Dodge Durango a good fit for?
The Durango fits families that need passenger space, cargo room or towing ability but still care about acceleration, engine sound and a driver-focused cabin. V6 trims suit everyday use, while the V8 models lean further into performance.
Dodge Durango Reviews
What owners are saying about the Dodge Durango.
“Durango RT is sporty and sleek to drive. Its a great mom car especially if you have small kiddos and want to go grocery shopping to taking a road trip. Ride is comfortable and fun...especially when you need to pick up the speed. I love the car and how it looks. Very sleek.”
“I thought our vehicle was supposed to have a rechargeable flashlight mounted in the rear, but while our vehicle has a place for it, no flashlight was included. Our control settings (easy-exit seats, power locks) have been set up in our control panel, yet are not operating properly.”
“It is hard to see out of side of vehicle to check to see if another vehicle is coming from the passenger's side.”
“I have 2 disappointments. 1st is the driver's seat comfort level. Laguna leather seats should be much more comfortable. The drivers seat is not styled well and after prolonged driving becomes very uncomfortable. 2nd the exterior paint finish is somewhat poor. There are several small defects in the clear coat that look as if they happened at the factory level.”
“All around it's built just right, inside and outside. Everything from the engine, transmission and sound is great. It's a great crossover with a bad attitude. Lol”
Sources
- dodge.com — News / Durango Rt 392 Hemi Returns
- dodge.com — News / 2026 Dodge Durango Gt America250 Edition
- dodge.com — News / 2026 Durango Srt Hellcat Jailbreak Customization
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Faq
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Specs.Gt Plus
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Specs.Rt
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Specs.Rt Plus
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Specs.Rt Premium
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Specs.Rt 20Th Anniversary Plus
- dodge.com — Includes / Feature Grid / Modal Container 04
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Specs.Rt 20Th Anniversary Premium
- dodge.com — 2025 / Durango / Specs.Srt Hellcat