Next year, Dodge is set to introduce a facelifted version of the Durango SUV and, with it, a performance-oriented SRT variant.

Word about a facelifted Dodge Durango arriving in 2017 first emerged from the company’s future product plans some two and a half years ago. At the time, however, there was no mention of an SRT, suggesting that the automaker has only relatively recently opted to develop it, tapping into the booming SUV market.

Automotive News says that the Durango SRT will be powered by the firm’s 6.4-liter V8 engine, so no SRT Hellcat is on the cards. Nevertheless, the potent powertrain should be enough to satisfy buyers.

When installed into the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, this engine pumps out 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque so identical figures can be expected for the Durango. When coupled with an all-wheel drive system and an eight speed automatic transmission, it should be able to accelerate the SUV to 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than five seconds.

As for the changes set to be adopted by the entire facelifted range, expect to see tweaked front and rear fascias, redesigned wheels and a freshened-up interior.

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