Has anyone driven both of these cars now that they have the 8-speed tranny? Any impressions you'd like to share?

In 2011 the V6 was a dog (with all deference to you V6 owners) compared with the V8. What's it like today?

 

The 8 speed made the difference for me in getting the 6. like you said 11-13 is just weak and would have to get the v8 in those years imho.

 

The 6 is still TQ deficient compared to an 11-13 HEMI
No REPLACEMENT FOR DISPLACEMENT
STEVE

 

I haven't driven the Hemi with the 8 speed, only the v6 and thought it was the fix needed. Currently own a 2011 and it is a dog but gets great mileage. This could end up being pages long v6 vs v8. My opinion, if your mostly just driving and not towing, I would go with the v6( you do miss that awesome sound!). However if you do plan to tow, check the ratings of both and get the factory tow package(not just the hitch) with the engine size you choose.

Chris

 

I've driven them both and there just isn't common ground.

I liked them both but.....

The Durango with the 6 is good reliable transportation....you can mod it up where it sounds a little louder, rides a little lower, goes a little quicker....but it won't be the R/T.

The R/T adds a lot if spice to your daily driver. The R/T's exterior looks, louder exhaust and lower stance combined with a huge kick in the pants when you stomp on it makes it special.

 

True, but can't you add the RT package with the V6? I know it's not a true RT, but has all the visuals right?

Chris

 

what are the current factory mpg claims between the two?

 

It is called the Rallye package, has the same wheels, body matched panels, black headlights, dual exhaust. Looks just like the R/T, but you lose a lot of options (interior and exterior) that you would get with the R/T. I am actually getting a Granite Rallye package this week (like how the wheels match the paint and everything flows real nice), then I am getting a Katzkin leather package that is black with silver stitches and I will get Rallye embroidered into the front headrests too.

 

If you're at all worried about Chrysler transmissions, get the V8. ZF makes the tranny for the V8 Ds. Chrysler makes them for the V6. The V6 tranny is a ZF design, but Chrysler modified it to work with their existing transmission plant in Kokomo. A simple search of the forum here provides numerous examples of poor shifting V6 transmissions, even with a few replacements already.

 

AWD or RWD?

I believe the RWD versions are:
V6: 25/18/20
V8: 23/14/17

AWD models:
V6: 24/17/19
V8: 22/14/16

Overall, a 3 mpg difference between the two. Hemi does take midgrade though.