2026 Dodge Durango Hellcat Brief Review: Unreservedly American

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      What was intended to be a one-year special has unexpectedly continued. I could never have predicted that by 2026, I would be driving a new Hellcat-powered WK2-based Durango, but here we are, and it’s exactly as you remember.

      The 2026 Dodge Durango Hellcat stands out as the only three-row, supercharged V8 crossover SUV that comes with a factory warranty. It’s loud, quick, fast, comfortable, thirsty, and remains unchanged from what it once was.

      Joel Feder

      The Essentials

      Dodge has transformed the three-row family vehicle into a V8-exclusive offering and fully embraces its American muscle heritage. The V8 has effectively sustained the WK2-based Durango, which is now 15 years old. The Hellcat versions have been a major hit, and now there’s a “Jailbreak” option that allows for an astonishing array of build configurations. Just the seatbelt colors alone come in four options, not to mention the six wheel choices, four brake caliper colors, six paint selections, six badge colors, five dual-stripe styles, a gloss black hood alternative, five interior color variations, and three seating arrangements.

      The Durango’s exterior remains largely unchanged. We’re on our third facelift with a fourth on the way. I’ve seen the new design but wasn’t permitted to take photos. The current model? It’s sharp. The curved fenders conceal the wide wheels of the Hellcat variant. The hood features scalloped vents to release heat and allow cool air into the supercharged V8. Large dual exhaust tips suggest it’s going to be loud. I personally like that the wheels are just 20 inches and nearly touch the massive brakes. It’s not ostentatious, but it looks the part.

      Joel Feder

      Inside, the Durango has remained surprisingly competitive and modern due to its various updates. The 7-inch digital gauge cluster is complemented by a 10.1-inch touchscreen that hosts numerous SRT-specific screens, from digital gauges for different powertrain systems to launch control settings and more. A nice touch is the climate control screen that depicts a driver in a racing helmet, a nod to the Hellcat. Traditionalists will appreciate the physical buttons and knobs for the entire climate control system, along with a volume knob.

      Joel Feder

      In all my years with the WK2-based Durango, I encountered something new during my test: a five-passenger seating setup without a third row. Instead, there are two under-floor storage bins that provide ample hidden space.

      Joel Feder

      Driving the 2026 Dodge Durango Hellcat

      You might have heard this before. The 2026 Dodge Durango is equipped with a renowned supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 engine that produces 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. A ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission distributes power to all four wheels. Dodge claims a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, a quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds, and a top speed of an impressive 180 mph.

      This vehicle is a powerhouse. It’s incredibly loud, especially during cold starts or at full throttle. It can drone on the highway at certain speeds and RPMs, and you will always hear that supercharger whine when it’s under load.

      Joel Feder

      Despite the aging WK2 chassis, it still performs excellently and puts many newer platforms to shame in terms of feel and packaging. The semi-adaptive dampers are tuned to provide a firm ride that is never harsh, even on rough Midwest roads. It’s completely manageable as a daily driver.

      However, one cannot overlook the EPA fuel economy ratings: 12 mpg in the city, 17 on the highway, and 13 combined. And that’s for the premium fuel. Over 307 miles of mixed suburban driving, the onboard trip computer indicated an average of 13.7 mpg for the Durango Hellcat.

      Joel Feder

      Quick Verdict

      With a starting price of $81,990, including a $1,995 destination charge, the 2026 Dodge Durango Hellcat is not exactly affordable. With the Jailbreak options added, including the stripes, red badging, red seatbelts, and the Premium Group—featuring a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with an 825-watt amplifier—the total came to $88,160.

      It’s interesting to note that a Rivian R1S dual-motor with the Performance Upgrade can match the 0-60 mph sprint time and provide similar power (slightly less horsepower but more torque) for a similar price,assuming you go with the Large battery and not the Max battery, which has a 329-mile EPA estimated range.

      The 2026 Dodge Dur