The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat’s V8 Engine May Not Be Going Extinct Just Yet

Against the odds, the three-row Durango SUV has turned out to be the last Dodge model available with a Hemi V8 engine. And, surprisingly, the eight-cylinder’s life has been extended thanks to market demand. With a nod to customer expectations, Dodge has announced it will continue producing V8-powered Durangos up to 2025, despite initial doubts about the engine’s viability.

V8 Engine Options for the 2025 Durango

Four-door family-friendly adventures now have two V8 options to choose from, as Dodge extends the availability of its iconic Hemi engine. The naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8 produces 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, while the supercharged 6.2-liter engine, inspired by the Challenger Hellcat, is capable of delivering a mightier 710 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque. Dodge remains mum on the exact dates when it will stop producing either engine, but both variants will be available up to the 2025 calendar year.

The End of the V8 Era? Maybe Not

After that, the curtains may be closing on the V8 engine’s presence in Dodge’s lineup. Although rumors hint that a V8 fits in the new Charger’s engine bay, it seems unlikely that we’ll see an eight-cylinder-powered trim in the foreseeable future. The engine swap may be technically possible, but the financial investment, compounded by emissions-related penalties, makes it a tricky business case for Dodge – which can’t afford to waste money right now.

Facts and Figures: Dealers are Already Taking Orders for the 2025 Durango

Dealers have started taking orders for the 2025 Durango, with 10 trim levels available, ranging from the GT to the SRT Hellcat. Base prices start at $43,590 for the V6-powered GT and escalate to $115,315 for the V8-powered Hammerhead, Silver Bullet, and Brass Monkey SRT Hellcat trims. Note that these prices include a $1,595 destination charge.

A Farewell to the V8 or a New Beginning? Only Time Will Tell

Rumors are circulating that Dodge has shown its next-gen Durango concept to dealers, promising a dramatically different design. Although an exact timeline for the launch hasn’t been announced, many expect the current V8-powered Durango to retire at the end of the 2025 model year. The next CEO might just give the V8 a new lease on life, but only time will tell.