dodge has decided to bet again on what made it famous: its V8 HEMI engines. As much of the industry moves towards electric vehicles, the American brand has reinforced its line of high-performance SUVs, especially the Durango R/T 392 and the 2026 SRT Hellcatmodels that had seen their sale restricted in multiple states due to environmental regulations.
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The rise of electric mobility was not enough to replace the demand for traditional engines in certain segments.
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Low sales of electric cars and the elimination of tax incentives led Dodge to keep its V8 enginesnot only in the Durango, but also in models such as the Charger Daytona, consolidating the classic performance strategy.
Overcoming regulatory barriers
Originally, The 2026 Durango R/T 392 and SRT Hellcat were banned in 17 US states. due to the standards of the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which considers V8 engines inefficient and polluting. For the 2026 version of the Durango, the brand eliminated the V6 engines and focused exclusively on the V8s, which triggered the initial ban.
After modifying some features and passing additional emissions tests, Dodge managed to get eight more states to authorize the sale, leaving only seven states where it still cannot market these models. This partial approval represents a great advance for the brand, which can now meet the demand of enthusiasts in the majority of the country.
Stellantis, Dodge’s parent company, had already faced restrictions in 2023. Brands like Jeep and Ram had to recall specific models of Wrangler and other trucks in at least 14 states for non-compliance with emissions standardsso the company’s previous experience helped design the approval strategy for the Durango.
Engines and performance of the 2026 Durango
The 2026 Dodge Durango eliminates the V6 engines and opts for three V8 options: a 5.7 liter naturally aspirated, a 6.4 liter naturally aspirated and a 6.2 liter supercharged, the latter reserved for the 392 and SRT Hellcat editions, which generate 710 horsepower.
The 2026 SRT Hellcat establishes itself as the most powerful gasoline SUV on the market. Its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine delivers 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Additionally, it covers a quarter mile in 11.5 seconds and has a top speed of 180 mph, figures that put it on par with many sports cars rather than a traditional SUV.
These features make the 2026 Durango Hellcat a true muscle SUV, combining the space and versatility of an SUV with the raw power of a classic muscle car.
Dodge’s strategy to comply with regulations
To achieve sale in states with CARB restrictions, Dodge made specific adjustments to the emissions system and calibration of the V8 enginesensuring they met standards without sacrificing performance.
This maneuver allowed at least 10 states to approve dealer orders, expanding the geographic coverage of the 2026 Durango Hellcat and R/T 392.
The objective was not only to comply with the law, but also to maintain Dodge’s position as a benchmark for high-performance muscle SUVs. Despite environmental pressure and electrical competition, the brand found a balance that allows it to continue offering traditional engines where the market demands it.
The 2026 Dodge Durango R/T 392 and SRT Hellcat not only stand out for their engine, but also for their versatility and presence. They combine the transportability and comfort of a family SUV with the exciting driving experience of a muscle car, something that few vehicles in the segment can offer today.
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