Dodge's New, More Powerful V8 Durango Is A Sign Of The Times

Dodge's Durango never really lost its V8, unlike other models in its lineup, when the brand began an ill-fated push towards hybrids and electrification. The last model received extension after extension, and it always felt as if Dodge was hedging its bets. Those, however, were pricey, and further limited models were intended to draw collectors based (rightly) on the impression the Durango's V8 would be on its way out soon. That day looks to be a long way off with the introduction of an updated Durango R/T, now featuring the massive 392 cubic-inch Hemi V8 with more power than the outgoing model and a $50,000 price point.

Dodge says the new Durango will start at an MSRP of $49,999, which should bring final sale prices into the $50,000 realm. The Hemi, meanwhile, adds 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque to the equation, which is quite a lot more than the outgoing model's outputs (by 32 percent and 21%, respectively, per Dodge). The added 115 horsepower and 80 lb.-ft. of torque translates to a much quicker 0-60 mph time, falling from 6.2 seconds to 4.4 seconds. Moreover, the extra power also means a higher tow rating of 8,700 pounds.

A rear-biased all-wheel drive system underpins the new powertrain, which is shifted via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Dodge will also add adaptive damping suspension and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. Braking is handled by Brembo six-piston units. As for further standard equipment, a Launch Edition will add darker trim elements, 20-inch wheels, leather seats, and second-row captain's chairs. A Premium trim adds a Harman Kardon sound system with further leather, as well as a towing package and sunroof. It's a solid bargain, helped by a cascade of changes that have allowed the Hemi to live long past when anyone thought it would.

Dodge's big shift to electrification was the Charger Daytona EV, the replacement for the V8-powered Challenger and Charger. Put lightly, it was a flop. Gas versions followed, but the V8 remained relegated to the Durango. Following regulatory shifts from the Trump Administration and a decline in consumer demand for fully-electric models, Dodge and its parent company, Stellantis, have continued to reintroduce or extend gas powertrains, rather than continuing the shift to EVs that the brand set out on half a decade ago. The extensions and reintroductions look set to continue, and whether they remain a permanent fixture in the brand's lineups depends largely on how much the shifting American political machine decides to commit towards EVs.