The Dodge Durango, despite being built on a venerable platform, has experienced an impressive surge in sales, achieving its highest third-quarter performance in two decades. This remarkable success is largely attributed to a strategic decision by Dodge to standardize the powerful Hemi V8 engine across the entire 2026 Durango lineup. This bold move has not only invigorated demand for the Durango but also positively impacted other Stellantis brands, indicating a broader market trend where the allure of V8 engines is regaining traction as the pace of electrification moderates. The enthusiasm from consumers for these high-performance, internal combustion engines signals a continued appreciation for traditional automotive power and capability.
This renewed focus on V8 power extends beyond the Durango, influencing other models within the Stellantis family. The reintroduction of the Hemi V8 as an engine option for the Ram 1500 pickup truck, for instance, has also been met with significant consumer interest, leading to increased sales. This trend suggests a strategic pivot or perhaps a rebalancing of priorities within the automotive industry, recognizing that a substantial segment of the market still desires the raw power and distinctive driving experience offered by V8 engines. As the industry navigates the transition towards electric vehicles, the sustained demand for V8-powered vehicles presents a compelling case for automakers to maintain a diverse powertrain offering that caters to a wide array of consumer preferences.
Durango's Enduring Appeal and V8-Powered Revival
The Dodge Durango, now in its third generation, has defied expectations by securing its most successful third-quarter sales in two decades, a testament to its enduring market appeal. This achievement is particularly notable given the model's mature platform, which has been in production for nearly 14 years. The significant increase in sales, a 44% year-over-year jump in Q3, can be directly linked to Dodge's innovative decision to equip all 2026 Durango models with the potent Hemi V8 engine. This strategic shift not only boosts the vehicle's horsepower by 65 over the previous V6 option but also enhances its towing capability to an impressive 8,700 pounds, solidifying its position as a highly capable and desirable SUV. This move positions the Durango as an exceptional value, especially considering its competitive starting price, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a powerful V8-equipped SUV.
The current generation Dodge Durango, despite its long tenure, recently posted its strongest third-quarter sales in 20 years. This impressive performance, marked by a 44% increase in Q3 sales compared to the previous year, underscores the model's unexpected resurgence. A pivotal factor in this success was Dodge's mid-Q3 announcement to make the Hemi V8 engine standard across the entire 2026 Durango lineup. This 5.7-liter V8 engine offers a substantial increase of 65 horsepower over the outgoing V6, along with a robust 8,700-pound towing capacity for all trims. The top-tier Durango Hellcat further amplifies this power with a supercharged V8 delivering 710 hp. Starting at an accessible $42,495, the base Dodge Durango GT is now recognized as the most affordable V8-powered SUV available, a factor undoubtedly contributing to its record-breaking sales. Additionally, the Durango's top ranking in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study further highlights its high owner satisfaction and overall desirability.
The Broader Impact of V8 Relevancy on Stellantis and the Industry
The success of the V8 strategy extends beyond the Dodge Durango, demonstrating a positive ripple effect across other Stellantis brands. This is particularly evident with the Ram 1500 pickup truck, which saw a 10% year-over-year sales increase in Q3 following the reintroduction of the Hemi V8 as an engine option. This strong market response, with Hemi-powered Ram 1500s selling out within an average of five days, signals a clear consumer preference for these powerful engines. This trend suggests a broader industry dynamic where, despite the push towards electrification, V8 engines are reclaiming their significance, especially in larger vehicles and performance-oriented models. Automakers are increasingly recognizing the importance of catering to this enduring demand, re-evaluating their powertrain strategies to offer a mix of traditional and electric options.
Stellantis's strategic emphasis on V8 power has yielded positive results not only for the Durango but also for other models, including the Ram 1500 pickup truck. Following the reintroduction of the Hemi V8 as an option, the Ram 1500 experienced a 10% sales jump in the third quarter compared to the previous year, with overall light-duty pickup sales for 2025 increasing by 4%. This enthusiastic market reception, characterized by Hemi-powered 1500s selling quickly, highlights a notable shift in consumer demand. Industry-wide, there's a growing recognition that V8 engines maintain strong appeal for larger and performance-focused vehicles, causing manufacturers to reassess their rapid shift towards exclusively electric lineups. This is exemplified by Mercedes-AMG's decision to consider a V8 for the upcoming CLE 63, moving away from a previously planned four-cylinder hybrid. This indicates a broader trend of V8 engines regaining market relevance, alongside more affordably priced V8 options like the Ford F-150, Ford Mustang GT, and Chevrolet Tahoe, demonstrating that traditional powerful engines continue to hold a significant place in the automotive landscape.