I'm looking at a couple DDs one is a V6 Express with 96k and the other is a V8 Citadel with 87k. Both are 2 owner SUVs with good maintenance, I like the idea of the V8 and options, but the MPG and low options on the V6 are appealing also. The V8 is $5,000 more than the V6. What are the thoughts of my peers?

 

it all depends on what you want to do with it, if have any inkling thought of towing i would get the v8.

 

It will be mainly a daily driver that will pull a small utility trailer, possibility a small fishing boat down the road.

 

The 3.6 is a good engine but underpowered in the Durango. We have one in our Journey and its a rocket. Test drove a Durango with the 3.6 and it was nothing like our DJ. Go with the Hemi. More suited to the size of a larger SUV.

 

The 2011-13 models felt sluggish with the V6. The 14 and newer tranny is better suited and makes it a lot more fun to drive. My feeling is that on a test drive I didn't realize how sluggish it was. It wasn't until I owned it for a few weeks that I really regretted not getting the V8 on my 2012 model.

 

The Pentastar V6 is definitely a great design and a very reliable motor. I'm happy having it and the W5A580 five speed auto in my truck because I just know it's going to be a trouble free combo.

BUT...if I had the choice to do it all over again I'd spring for the V8 in a heartbeat. I don't mind the V6 and it actually does OK in most situations, and when I bought my Durango I just didn't know enough about them at the time to wait and hold out for the Hemi. The other guy is right, the transmission programming SUCKS. A little more spirited shifting makes the V6 feel much more adequate, but with a 2011 you're gonna have a durable yet sluggish W5A580 five-speed. I tolerate mine and when you get on it, it moves but it's nothing like a Hemi. For any guy's guy, the sound of the Hemi at ingnition is worth the 5,000. It would be for me.

Go with the V8.

 

Mine is an '11 Crew with tow package and V6 with almost 115,000 miles on it. Having not driven one with a Hemi, I can only speak to the adequate V6 in my vehicle. I tow a boat a fair amount around Wisconsin (weight of boat, trailer and motor = 3900# plus all the stuff in cargo area). I own a second home in Florida, so drive the D there one to two times per year with cargo fully loaded and bikes on hitch mounted rack. Just made the trip in late December and vehicle performed as advertised. I'm happy with what I have and would buy a new D with the V6 again if I were in the market.

 

Thanks for the replies. I have a 11 Ram 1500 4x4 with the Hemi and 3.92 gears. Love the truck, the ride, the performance, and the sound of the Hemi under WOT. The only dislike is the MPG and as I get older the height of the truck bed. In discussing pricing on the two Durangos the V6 has now been offered to me $2K less than stated above, so now there is a $7K difference between the V6 and V8. I'm trying to get the dealer to move on the V8 some more, but as of now they are staying firm.

 

To finish up this thread. I ended up buying the V6 Durango. I deal was too good to pass up. Thanks to all who gave me their input.

 

Congrats. It's a great vehicle that will serve you well either way.