The V6 Returns! (And the V8s Get Bigger): The Ultimate Guide to the 2026 Dodge Durango

Just when we thought the V6 was history, Dodge pulled a U-turn.

If you have been following the news about the 2026 Dodge Durango, you might have heard rumors that the V6 engine was discontinued. For a few months, that was actually true. Dodge announced they were going “All-V8” for the new model year.

But here in Garrett County, we know that while horsepower is fun, practicality matters too. And apparently, the rest of the country agreed.

Due to overwhelming demand from drivers who love the Durango’s style but want better fuel efficiency for their daily commute to Oakland or Deep Creek, Dodge has officially brought back the V6 for 2026.

The 2026 Lineup: The Best of Both Worlds

For 2026, you now have more choices than ever. You can stick with the reliable, efficient V6, or step up to some of the most powerful V8 engines ever put in a family SUV.

1. The Dodge Durango GT (The V6 is Back!)

The Commuter’s Choice. After a brief scare, the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 returns as the standard engine for the GT trim. This is the sweet spot for families in Accident, MD who need an AWD vehicle that handles snow and school runs without the premium fuel bill of a V8.

• Power: 295 HP / 260 lb-ft torque.

• Why We Love It: It delivers the aggressive “Muscle SUV” looks—especially with the Blacktop Package—but keeps your mpg reasonable for highway driving on I-68.

• See more specs on the official Dodge Durango page.

2. The Dodge Durango “GT Hemi”

The New Middle Ground. This is where things get interesting. If you want a V8 but don’t quite need the R/T’s race-track suspension, Dodge has added a V8 option to the GT trim.

• Engine: 5.7L HEMI® V8.

• Power: 360 HP.

• Best For: Towing the boat to Deep Creek Lake without stepping up to the more expensive R/T trim.

3. The Dodge Durango R/T

Since the GT got the 5.7L engine, the R/T had to level up. For 2026, the R/T now comes standard with the massive 6.4L HEMI® V8 (previously reserved for the SRT 392). See our inventory now! 

• Power: 475 HP.

• The Upgrade: This is effectively a track car with three rows of seats. It offers blistering acceleration and a thunderous exhaust note that echoes off the mountains.

Skip the Order Wait: V6 Durango In Stock NOW

Because the V6 was “cancelled” and then “uncancelled,” inventory across the country is chaotic. Ordering a 2026 V6 model today could mean months of waiting while the factory catches up.

But you don’t have to wait.

We have a stunning White Knuckle Clear Coat Durango GT Plus available right now on our lot in Accident.

This specific model features the highly desirable Blacktop Redline Package, giving you the “SRT” look—including the Performance Hood and 20-inch Black Noise wheels—powered by that hard-to-find V6 engine.

Click the link below to claim this rare find before it’s gone: 👉 View the In-Stock V6 Durango Blacktop Redline

Whether you want the return of the V6 or the roar of the new 392 V8, Auto Land of Accident is your local headquarters for American muscle.

Visit us today: 113 S Main St, Accident, MD 21520 (Serving Oakland, McHenry, and all of Garrett County)