Dodge is doubling down on V8 power for 2026, but not every buyer will be able to snag the hottest Durangos. A spokesperson confirmed the Durango R/T and the supercharged Hellcat will not be sold in the 17 states that follow California Air Resources Board (CARB) rules. Those markets include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington. The reason is straightforward. The 6.4 liter 392 Hemi and 6.2 liter Hellcat engines do not currently meet CARB emissions standards, and Dodge chose not to engineer state specific versions. The good news for shoppers in those states is that the Durango GT remains available nationwide.
Every 2026 Durango now packs eight cylinders. The base GT swaps last year’s 295 horsepower V6 for the 360 horsepower 5.7 liter Hemi, while the R/T steps up to the 6.4 liter 392 Hemi. The Hellcat returns to the top with its 6.2 liter supercharged V8 and the kind of grin inducing thrust that made it a modern muscle icon. Ordering for the 2026 Durango GT and Hellcat is open now with first deliveries slated for the fourth quarter of this year. Dodge says R/T order books will follow a bit later.
Pricing lands where shoppers expect for a three row SUV with this much attitude. The GT starts at $44,490, which is up $4,000 versus 2025. The R/T holds the line at $51,990, unchanged from last year, and the Hellcat checks in at $81,990, a welcome $5,000 drop compared with 2025. If you live in a CARB state and want the big power models, you will need to purchase out of state. For everyone else, the Durango lineup now offers a clear ladder of V8 performance, from family friendly GT to full send Hellcat, with the soundtrack to match.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
