2026 Dodge Durango GT vs GT Plus Hemi V8: Which Durango Fits Your Family?
The 2026 Dodge Durango GT with the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 fits value-focused families needing efficient three-row transportation and a 6,200-pound maximum towing capacity, while the 2026 Dodge Durango GT Plus Hemi V8 best suits drivers seeking premium comfort amenities alongside a 360-hp engine capable of hauling up to 8,700 pounds. Choosing between these two models comes down to whether your household prioritizes lower upfront vehicle costs or maximum towing strength paired with high-end cabin equipment.
Deciding on the ideal three-row SUV requires looking closely at how your household uses space, power, and interior features every day. The standard GT configuration delivers an impressive balance of muscle-car styling, six- or seven-passenger seating flexibility, and modern dashboard technology. It provides a spacious interior with 17 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row, making it easy to carry school backpacks, sports gear, and grocery loads without sacrificing passenger room.
Upgrading to the GT Plus HEMI V8 AWD shifts the Durango into a higher class of capability. Beyond the visceral acceleration and distinct exhaust note of the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, the GT Plus trim equips the cabin with luxury touches that elevate long road trips. Families who frequently tow recreational trailers or travel with a full load of passengers will appreciate the additional muscle and convenience features packed into this upgraded trim.
To explore both models in person, check our Berwick showroom address or give our team a quick call at (985) 384-8070 to arrange a side-by-side test drive.
Does the 2026 Dodge Durango GT Come Standard with a Hemi V8 Engine?
The 2026 Dodge Durango GT comes standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that generates 295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. For the 2026 model year, Dodge has expanded driver choice by offering the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine as an available option on the GT trim, producing 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque.
Both powertrains utilize a smooth-shifting TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission designed to optimize power delivery whether you choose rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 remains a proven engine for daily errands, school drop-offs, and highway cruising, yielding an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway in rear-wheel-drive models.
For buyers seeking stronger passing power and enhanced trailering performance, selecting the optional 5.7-liter HEMI V8 transforms the GT trim into an athletic family hauler. This V8 configuration achieves an EPA-estimated 14 mpg city and 21 mpg highway while running on a generous 25-gallon fuel tank.
Our vehicle advisors notice that buyers taking test drives often start by comparing the smooth, quiet efficiency of the V6 against the immediate throttle response of the V8 before choosing their powertrain. You can explore our new Dodge Durango inventory to see which engine options are currently parked on our lot.
Table of Contents
- What Features Are Added When Upgrading from Durango GT to GT Plus?
- What Is the Maximum Towing Capacity of the Durango GT V6 vs GT Hemi V8?
- How Much Does All-Wheel Drive Cost and Is the GT Plus Hemi V8 Worth the Extra Price?
- What Are Common Maintenance Costs and Ownership Expectations for the Hemi V8?
- Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Dodge Durango Lineup
- Find Your 2026 Dodge Durango GT or GT Plus at A J Dohmann
What Features Are Added When Upgrading from Durango GT to GT Plus?
Upgrading from the base GT to the GT Plus trim adds leather-trimmed seating, heated first- and second-row seats, ventilated front seats, a power sunroof, and advanced safety tech like Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Lane Departure Warning. It also introduces an upgraded 10-speaker Alpine premium audio system and enhanced interior accents.
The standard GT cabin comes well-appointed with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Blind Spot Monitoring. Moving up to the GT Plus enhances daily driver convenience with a power liftgate, driver-seat memory settings, and a heated steering wheel.
For growing families, passenger comfort in the rear rows receives a major boost in the GT Plus. Heated second-row seats keep kids warm during chilly winter mornings, while available second-row captain's chairs provide easy walkthrough access to the third row. The driver assistance suite also gains Forward Collision Warning with Full Stop, giving parents extra peace of mind during congested highway commutes.
Shoppers considering pre-owned or current model-year configurations can compare features across trim levels by browsing our selection of pre-owned vehicles to view available interior layouts and package options.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specs by trim
| Feature | 6.4 R/T 392 AUTO 4WD | 6.4 R/T 392 PREMIUM AUTO 4WD | GT AWD | GT HEMI Plus America 250 V8 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6.4L | 6.4L | 3.6L | 5.7L |
| Horsepower | 475 hp | 475 hp | 295 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 470 lb-ft | 470 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | GT HEMI Plus V8 AWD | GT HEMI Premium America 250 V8 AWD | GT HEMI Premium V8 AWD | GT HEMI V8 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.7L | 5.7L | 5.7L | 5.7L |
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 360 hp | 360 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 390 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | GT Plus AWD | GT Plus America 250 Edition AWD | GT RWD | Police Pursuit Vehicle AWD (Fleet) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L | 3.6L | 3.6L | 3.6L |
| Horsepower | 295 hp | 295 hp | 295 hp | 295 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | R/T AWD | R/T Plus AWD | R/T Premium AWD | SRT Hellcat AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.7L | 5.7L | 5.7L | 6.2L |
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 360 hp | 360 hp | 710 hp |
| Torque | 390 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft | 645 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | SRT Hellcat Jailbreak AWD |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.2L |
| Horsepower | 710 hp |
| Torque | 645 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite® |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
What Is the Maximum Towing Capacity of the Durango GT V6 vs GT Hemi V8?
The 2026 Dodge Durango GT with the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 delivers a maximum towing rating of 6,200 pounds, while the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 achieves a strong maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds when optioned with the Tow 'n Go Package. This significant difference enables V8 models to pull heavy travel trailers, car haulers, and large boats with ease.
The standard 6,200-pound capacity on V6 models handles utility trailers, jet skis, and smaller popup campers effortlessly. However, when hauling heavy loads near the maximum limit, the extra low-end torque of the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 provides effortless acceleration and reduced engine strain on steep highway inclines.
Equipping the GT HEMI V8 with the available Tow 'n Go Package adds performance-minded hardware that optimizes stability and cooling during heavy towing duties. This package equips the vehicle with drive modes, an electronic limited-slip rear differential, adaptive damping suspension, high-performance exhaust, and integrated trailer brake control. For families in Houma pulling boats out to local bayous and waterways, the added torque of the V8 provides smooth launch authority on slippery boat ramps.
If you are planning to upgrade your family vehicle for towing weekend gear, you can value your current trade-in online to estimate your purchasing power before visiting the dealership.
How Much Does All-Wheel Drive Cost and Is the GT Plus Hemi V8 Worth the Extra Price?
All-wheel drive adds $2,000 to the base price of the 2026 Dodge Durango, bringing the starting MSRP of the GT AWD to $40,995 compared to $38,995 for the rear-wheel-drive GT. Upgrading to the GT Plus HEMI V8 AWD brings the base MSRP to $47,275 plus a $1,995 destination charge.
Determining whether the GT Plus HEMI V8 justifies the price step depends on your family's driving habits and towing needs:
- GT AWD ($40,995 Base MSRP): Ideal for daily family commuting, providing solid foul weather traction, 295 horsepower, and a 6,200-pound towing limit at a lower initial price point.
- GT Plus AWD ($45,595 Base MSRP): Adds high-value interior luxury, leather seating, sunroof, and active safety technology while retaining the fuel-efficient V6 engine.
- GT HEMI V8 AWD ($43,675 Base MSRP): Offers an entry point into V8 muscle and 8,700-pound towing potential with standard GT interior features.
- GT Plus HEMI V8 AWD ($47,275 Base MSRP): Combines peak 8,700-pound towing performance with luxury cabin amenities, ventilated seating, premium audio, and comprehensive safety assistance.
Commuters navigating daily school drop-offs and workplace runs around Morgan City often find that the V6 model delivers the ideal balance of smooth highway cruising and sensible fuel usage. However, for households that frequently haul heavy cargo or prioritize V8 performance, the GT Plus HEMI V8 offers unmatched utility that crossover competitors cannot replicate.
For current payment and financing information, please contact the dealership or submit an online credit application ahead of your test drive.
Dimensions & Capacity
Capacity and dimensions by trim
| Feature | 6.4 R/T 392 AUTO 4WD | 6.4 R/T 392 PREMIUM AUTO 4WD | GT AWD | GT HEMI Plus America 250 V8 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
| Cargo | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | — | — | 4,986 lbs | 5,313 lbs |
| Towing | — | — | 6,200 lbs | 7,200 lbs |
| Payload | — | — | 1,514 lbs | 1,787 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | GT HEMI Plus V8 AWD | GT HEMI Premium America 250 V8 AWD | GT HEMI Premium V8 AWD | GT HEMI V8 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 |
| Cargo | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 5,313 lbs | 5,313 lbs | 5,313 lbs | 5,313 lbs |
| Towing | 7,200 lbs | 7,200 lbs | 7,200 lbs | 7,200 lbs |
| Payload | 1,787 lbs | 1,787 lbs | 1,787 lbs | 1,787 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | GT Plus AWD | GT Plus America 250 Edition AWD | GT RWD | Police Pursuit Vehicle AWD (Fleet) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 7 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
| Cargo | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 4,986 lbs | 4,986 lbs | 4,875 lbs | 4,823 lbs |
| Towing | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
| Payload | 1,514 lbs | 1,514 lbs | 1,625 lbs | 1,677 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | R/T AWD | R/T Plus AWD | R/T Premium AWD | SRT Hellcat AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
| Cargo | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 5,313 lbs | 5,313 lbs | 5,313 lbs | 5,710 lbs |
| Towing | 7,200 lbs | 7,200 lbs | 7,200 lbs | 8,700 lbs |
| Payload | 1,787 lbs | 1,787 lbs | 1,787 lbs | 1,390 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | SRT Hellcat Jailbreak AWD |
|---|---|
| Seating | 5 |
| Cargo | 17.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 5,710 lbs |
| Towing | 8,700 lbs |
| Payload | 1,390 lbs |
What Are Common Maintenance Costs and Ownership Expectations for the Hemi V8?
The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 provides long-term ownership confidence due to its simple, time-tested pushrod engine architecture backed by a factory 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. While consumable items like dual-spark-plug replacements and performance brake pads carry slightly higher routine costs than the V6, the engine retains strong market demand and excellent resale value over time.
Dodge backs every new 2026 Durango with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty that includes complimentary roadside assistance. Because the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 features dual spark plugs per cylinder (sixteen plugs total), scheduled spark plug changes require a bit more hardware than a typical six-cylinder setup.
Fuel requirements are straightforward and budget-friendly for a high-output engine. Dodge recommends 89-octane mid-grade fuel for optimal performance in the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, though 87-octane regular unleaded is fully acceptable for daily operation. Combined with its heavy-duty TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, the Hemi V8 powertrain offers mechanical durability that helps hold solid trade-in value when it comes time to upgrade down the road.
Pricing
Pricing by trim
| Feature | 6.4 R/T 392 AUTO 4WD | 6.4 R/T 392 PREMIUM AUTO 4WD | GT AWD | GT HEMI Plus America 250 V8 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $49,995 | $57,595 | $40,995 | $43,675 |
| Destination charge | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 |
Pricing (continued)
| Feature | GT HEMI Plus V8 AWD | GT HEMI Premium America 250 V8 AWD | GT HEMI Premium V8 AWD | GT HEMI V8 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $47,275 | $43,675 | $50,275 | $43,675 |
| Destination charge | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 |
Pricing (continued)
| Feature | GT Plus AWD | GT Plus America 250 Edition AWD | GT RWD | Police Pursuit Vehicle AWD (Fleet) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $45,595 | $49,590 | $38,995 | $44,879 |
| Destination charge | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 |
Pricing (continued)
| Feature | R/T AWD | R/T Plus AWD | R/T Premium AWD | SRT Hellcat AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $43,675 | $47,275 | $50,275 | $79,995 |
| Destination charge | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 | $1,995 |
Pricing (continued)
| Feature | SRT Hellcat Jailbreak AWD |
|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $80,990 |
| Destination charge | $1,995 |
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Dodge Durango Lineup
Q: Which 3-row family SUV offers the highest towing capacity in its class?
At A J Dohmann, customers can explore the full range of 2026 Dodge Durango trims, including the powerful HEMI V8 models, to find the perfect SUV for their needs. This capability allows the Durango to offer strong towing performance in comparison with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, or Toyota Grand Highlander.
Q: Does the 2026 Dodge Durango GT Hemi V8 require premium gasoline?
No, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine in the Durango does not require premium fuel. Dodge recommends using 89-octane mid-grade unleaded gasoline for optimum engine efficiency and horsepower, but 87-octane regular unleaded is completely acceptable for standard driving conditions. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine runs on 87-octane regular unleaded fuel.
Q: What exterior style options are offered on the Durango GT Plus Hemi?
The GT Plus HEMI V8 can be optioned with the Blacktop Redline Package, which adds dark exterior accents, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and aggressive styling cues inside and out. Additionally, Dodge offers the America 250th Anniversary Edition on GT Plus and Premium models, featuring exclusive Stars and Stripes exterior striping, blue-accented Laguna leather seats, and unique badging.
Q: How much cargo space does the 2026 Dodge Durango provide behind the third row?
The 2026 Dodge Durango features 17 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space behind the third-row seats. When extra storage capacity is required for luggage or home projects, folding down the 50/50 split third row expands cargo volume to 43 cubic feet, and folding both rear seating rows yields a maximum storage capacity of 85 cubic feet.
Q: What warranty protection comes standard on a new 2026 Dodge Durango?
Every new 2026 Dodge Durango includes standard factory coverage consisting of a 3-year/36,000-mile basic limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. The powertrain warranty covers major mechanical components including the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, and includes 24-hour roadside assistance for 5 years or 60,000 miles.
Find Your 2026 Dodge Durango GT or GT Plus at A J Dohmann
Finding the right 2026 Dodge Durango for your family begins with choosing between the daily efficiency of the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and the raw towing capability of the 5.7-liter HEMI V8. Whether you lean toward the balanced value of the standard GT or the loaded comfort of the GT Plus, our dealership team is ready to walk you through available trim packages, seating layouts, and color options on our showroom floor.
Our inventory includes a wide range of all-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive Durango models fitted with popular option groups like the Blacktop Redline Package and the Tow 'n Go Package. We invite local drivers to test out the second-row seating options, evaluate the 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen, and compare engine performance during a comprehensive test drive on local roads.
Take the next step toward upgrading your family transportation today. You can visit our dealership in Berwick to inspect our current SUV lineup, or give our team a call at (985) 384-8070 to schedule your personalized sales appointment and trade-in evaluation.
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