With former CEO Carlos Tavares out of the picture, the HEMI V8 gets a new lease on life under the hood of the Durango.
Dodge Keeps the V8 Flame Alive
In a surprising turn of events, Dodge has decided to extend production of its Hemi-powered Durango R/T and SRT Hellcat into the 2025 model year. Initially scheduled to end production by December 31, 2024, the decision was driven by what Dodge described as “market demand and customer feedback.” This move also aligns with leadership changes at Stellantis, following the resignation of former CEO Carlos Tavares earlier this month. Tavares, reportedly a key proponent of discontinuing the Hemi engine, faced internal resistance to his stance. Dodge CEO Matt McAlear highlighted the significance of the Hemi, calling its continued production “the perfect capstone” for two decades of Hemi-powered Durangos.
A Loss for Performance Enthusiasts
While the R/T and SRT Hellcat variants live on, the 2025 Durango lineup has lost the 392 model. Known for its 6.4-liter Hemi V8, which produced 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, the 392 offered a balanced mix of performance and practicality. Its absence narrows the choices for V-8 enthusiasts, who now must opt for either the 5.7-liter Hemi, delivering 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, or the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat engine, which boasts an impressive 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque.
Hellcat Defies Expectations
Originally planned as a one-year offering, the Hellcat SUV has now become a symbol of resistance to the broader industry’s pivot toward electrification. With a 0-to-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds, the Hellcat maintains its position as one of the fastest and most powerful SUVs on the market. For those seeking a slightly less aggressive performance option, the Durango R/T remains a capable contender, achieving 0-to-60 mph in 6.2 seconds while still carrying the allure of a V-8.
Leadership Shakeup Paves the Way
The extended production of Hemi-powered Durangos comes on the heels of Carlos Tavares’s resignation as Stellantis CEO. Insiders have cited Tavares as a driving force behind efforts to phase out Hemi engines, a move that sparked significant internal disagreement. With his departure, Dodge has seized the opportunity to fulfill long-standing customer and dealer demands for V-8-powered Durangos. As one insider reportedly stated, “Everybody wanted to keep [the Hemi],” and Dodge has made good on that sentiment by extending production into 2025.
Pricing and Accessibility
The 2025 Durango lineup starts at $41,995, with the R/T model priced at $54,495. At the top of the range, the SRT Hellcat commands a premium, with special editions starting at $113,720. Despite these high price points, the demand for Hemi-powered SUVs remains robust, underscoring the enduring appeal of powerful, gas-driven engines in a market increasingly dominated by electrification and hybrid technology. For Dodge, this decision reflects both a celebration of its performance legacy and a strategic move to satisfy loyal enthusiasts.
