- The 2026 model gains a stronger V8 without raising price.
- Output climbs to 475 hp with a notable torque increase.
- Acceleration improves significantly over the previous R/T.
The Durango is creeping into its 15th year on sale, yet Dodge seems determined to prove it’s far from finished. Enter the 2026 Durango R/T 392 Launch Edition, which swaps in a larger, far more muscular Hemi V8, bringing an extra 115 hp over the outgoing 2025 R/T without nudging the price up a cent.
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This new R/T 392 slots between the GT Plus AWD Hemi and the SRT Hellcat, effectively taking over from the now-defunct R/T. The name tells you most of what you need to know. Under the hood sits the 6.4-liter 392 Hemi V8, replacing the outgoing model’s smaller 5.7-liter unit.
How Much Stronger Is It?
Output climbs to 475 hp (354 kW / 482 PS) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque, marking a 32% jump in horsepower and a 21% increase in torque over the old R/T. Dodge is quick to point out that this makes it the most powerful offering in its segment under $50,000, while also claiming best-in-class towing at 8,700 pounds (3,946 kg). Big numbers, and clearly part of the pitch.
That power is sent to all four wheels through a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic, backed by an electronic limited-slip differential at the rear. The Launch Edition also comes loaded as standard, with adaptive damping, a high-performance suspension setup, Brembo brakes with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, a louder exhaust, and SRT performance Drive Modes.
Thanks to the power boost, the Durango R/T 392 accelerates from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in 4.4 seconds down from 6.2 seconds in the previous R/T. It runs the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds and tops out at 160 mph (258 km/h). For a large three-row SUV, those are numbers that still feel faintly ridiculous.
What Sets It Apart Visually?
Well, not much, to be honest, as Dodge hasn’t strayed far from the familiar formula. The updates are limited to silver R/T 392 badging and a revised rear spoiler. Standard 20-inch alloy wheels come finished in Satin Carbon, set off by red brake calipers that do most of the talking.
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For those who want something spicier, the optional Blacktop Package which swaps in 20-inch Lights Out wheels, gloss black badging, and Eclipse Black tailpipes. There’s also a selection of racing stripes in Bright Blue, Carbon Fiber, Flame Red, Low Gloss Gunmetal, and Sterling Silver, plus a new Green Machine paint added to the broader Durango lineup.
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Inside, the Launch Edition offers Nappa leather and suede upholstery, SRT seats with heating and ventilation, plus heated captain chairs on the second row. Step up to the Launch Edition Premium and you get carbon fiber trim, additional leather across the dash and doors, a suede headliner, a sunroof, an 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, upgraded brakes, a full suite of driver assistance tech, and the Trailer Tow Package.
What Does It Cost?
Pricing lands at $49,995 before tax, title, and fees. That’s $6,320 more than the GT Hemi AWD, yet crucially identical to the 2025 R/T, which made 115 hp less at 360 hp. The better-equipped Launch Edition Premium starts at $57,595, undercutting the SRT Hellcat by $22,400. A curious bit of value positioning, especially for something that refuses to act its age.
