The 2027 Dodge Durango is set to bring a new era of performance and bold styling to the three-row SUV market, embracing electric power while holding onto its legacy of power and presence. With the Hemi and Hellcat engines being phased out, the Durango's fourth generation will stand as a testament to Dodge's commitment to blending muscle with modernity.
The latest Durango is crafted to stand strong in both the high-performance and family SUV segments. It’s built to offer a thrilling driving experience alongside the practicality that busy families need, making it a versatile option that can handle rugged adventures and everyday errands. Whether you’re drawn to its power or its spaciousness here at Landmark Dodge of Morrow, the new Durango aims to be a top choice among both performance-focused and family-friendly SUVs.
Blending Power and Practicality
For years, the Dodge Durango has maintained a reputation as a robust SUV with muscle car sensibilities and the practicality needed for family life. While early reports hinted that Dodge would fully transition the Durango to an all-electric model under the Stealth badge, recent developments suggest the transition will be more gradual.
Rather than a single all-electric offering, the 2027 Durango will offer both traditional combustion engine options and electric variants. The two-row Stealth model is expected to follow a year later, adding further versatility to Dodge's lineup. This flexible approach enables Dodge to cater to high-performance enthusiasts and family SUV buyers.
The strategy is similar to the way the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L offer varied appeal across different buyer segments. While there have been discussions surrounding Dodge's future plans for the Durango, the brand's continued focus on the popular three-row SUV segment suggests a strong commitment to providing versatile options for its customers.
Why the Durango Matters in Today’s Market
As other family-oriented SUVs aim to maximize cargo space and convenience, the Dodge Durango places an emphasis on providing what parents need most—time. Known for its impressive power, the outgoing Durango SRT Hellcat featured a formidable 710 horsepower, appealing to drivers who value utility and speed.
While the new Durango will leave behind the V-8 engines that have been synonymous with Dodge’s high-performance models, it will continue to honor the SRT legacy, offering a version that can deliver both thrilling acceleration and the practical space required for everyday family use.
Even without a V-8, the new Durango is expected to uphold its quick acceleration, potentially rivaling the Hellcat’s 3.4-second 0-60 mph time. This makes it an ideal choice for parents who need a practical vehicle but don’t want to compromise on excitement. Dodge’s decision to keep the Durango nameplate alive through this transition is a significant move, as the brand navigates a market increasingly leaning toward electrification and efficiency.
In the face of various challenges—such as the Hornet SUV's slower sales and the Charger’s task of convincing V-8 enthusiasts to switch to six-cylinder and electric options—the Durango's role in Dodge's lineup becomes even more crucial. Not only does it need to capture the attention of current Dodge fans, but it also needs to attract new buyers who might be drawn to high-performance electric SUVs.
Platform and Powertrain: A Range of Options
The 2027 Durango will be built on the STLA Large platform, which also underpins other new Dodge models, like the 2024 Charger and the electric Jeep Wagoneer S. This platform will support both combustion and electric powertrains, allowing Dodge to offer buyers a range of choices.
For those who still prefer traditional engines, the Durango will initially be available with combustion options, likely featuring the Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engine in two configurations: a 420-horsepower version and a more powerful 540-horsepower version. Additionally, a base model may include the familiar Pentastar V-6 engine or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, providing an accessible entry point for buyers.
Electric enthusiasts can look forward to an all-electric Durango variant that follows the example of the Jeep Wagoneer S. This electric model is expected to offer up to 600 horsepower, with a 100-kWh battery delivering over 300 miles of range on a single charge. For those seeking the power of combustion engines and the efficiency of electric, a plug-in hybrid version may also be part of the lineup, further broadening the Durango’s appeal in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
Looking Ahead
As Dodge phases out its iconic V-8 engines and embraces the future with electric powertrains, the 2027 Durango stands as a pivotal model for the brand. With the new platform and diverse range of powertrain options, it offers a compelling package that blends performance, practicality, and eco-friendly choices. Whether buyers are looking for a powerful family SUV or a high-performance electric vehicle, the 2027 Dodge Durango is positioned to meet those needs.
With both combustion and electric options, Dodge is setting the stage to thrill its devoted fans and capture the attention of a new generation eager for bold, high-performance SUVs. This dual approach promises a lineup that stays true to Dodge’s powerful legacy while embracing the future with electrifying potential.
