V8 Power Lives On: A Buyer's Guide to the 2026 Dodge Durango GT vs. GT HEMI V-8

The 2026 Dodge Durango lineup gives Montreal-Est families a choice that matters: the efficient 3.6L V-6 in the GT or the muscular 5.7L HEMI V-8 in the GT HEMI V-8. Both three-row SUVs deliver the capability and space your family needs, but each takes a different approach to power and performance.

Understanding which Durango fits your driving needs starts with knowing how you'll use it. Daily commutes through Montreal-Est and occasional weekend trips call for different capabilities than regular trailer towing or cottage country getaways. This guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide.

At a Glance: GT vs. GT HEMI V-8

Engine Performance and Daily Driving

The Durango GT's 3.6L Pentastar V-6 delivers 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This proven powertrain provides smooth acceleration for merging onto Autoroute 25 and confident passing power on Highway 40. The V-6 balances performance with fuel efficiency, making it well-suited for families who primarily use their SUV for school runs, grocery trips, and weekend activities around the Montreal region.

The GT HEMI V-8 steps up to a 5.7L HEMI V-8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. That extra power translates to noticeably quicker acceleration and stronger mid-range punch. The HEMI V-8 excels when you need to merge quickly in heavy traffic or accelerate confidently with a full load of passengers and cargo. This engine was rebadged from the R/T trim for 2026 and comes with limited availability across Canada.

Towing and Hauling Capability

The Durango GT's V-6 engine achieves best-in-class V-6 towing at 2,812 kg (6,200 lbs). This capacity handles most family towing needs, from utility trailers and small campers to jet skis and snowmobile trailers. The V-6 provides enough muscle for weekend getaways to the Laurentians or trips to cottage country without strain.

The GT HEMI V-8 equipped with the Tow N Go Package delivers 3,946 kg (8,700 lbs) of maximum towing capacity. That represents a 40% increase over the V-6, opening up possibilities for larger travel trailers, heavier boat configurations, and equipment trailers that exceed the V-6's limits. The extra torque from the HEMI V-8 also provides more relaxed highway towing performance, maintaining speed more easily on hills and requiring less downshifting when accelerating with a loaded trailer.

Interior Space and Practicality

Both Durango models share the same three-row interior layout with seating for up to seven passengers. You get up to 50 seating configurations and a maximum cargo capacity of 2,409 litres (85.1 cubic feet) with all rear seats folded. This flexibility works equally well for transporting hockey equipment, helping a family member move, or loading up for a camping trip.

Standard equipment on both trims includes 20-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, a 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with navigation, heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path detection, ParkSense rear park assist, and a power liftgate. The GT HEMI V-8 adds standard 20-inch Satin Carbon split 5-spoke wheels for a more aggressive appearance.

All-Weather Capability

Both Durango models come standard with all-wheel drive, giving you confident traction on snow-covered Montreal-Est streets and icy highway on-ramps during Quebec winters. The AWD system automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels based on available traction, helping maintain stability in challenging conditions.

The added torque from the HEMI V-8 can provide stronger acceleration in slippery conditions once you're moving, while the V-6's lighter weight may offer slightly better low-speed traction control in parking lot snow. Both powertrains pair with the same AWD hardware and suspension components, so winter driving capability remains strong across the lineup.

Which Durango is Right for You?

Choose the Durango GT with the 3.6L V-6 if you want balanced performance and efficiency for daily driving around Montreal-Est. This powertrain handles school drop-offs, commuting, and weekend adventures with ease while delivering strong towing capability for occasional trailer use up to 2,812 kg (6,200 lbs). The V-6 makes sense for families who value fuel efficiency and don't regularly tow heavy loads.

Choose the Durango GT HEMI V-8 with the 5.7L V-8 if you want maximum power and serious towing capability. With the Tow N Go Package, this engine delivers 3,946 kg (8,700 lbs) of towing capacity alongside stronger acceleration and more confident passing power with passengers and cargo aboard. The V-8 fits families who frequently tow larger trailers, regularly drive with full passenger loads, or simply prefer the performance and sound of HEMI V-8 power. Keep in mind that limited availability means you'll want to act quickly if the HEMI V-8 appeals to you.

Experience the 2026 Durango at Grenier Chrysler Montréal-Est

Both Durango powertrains offer the muscle SUV capability, three-row versatility, and all-weather performance that Montreal-Est families need. The right choice depends on how you'll use your vehicle day to day. Our team at Grenier Chrysler Montréal-Est in Montreal-Est can help you compare both models in person and answer questions specific to your driving needs. Stop by our showroom to explore the 2026 Durango lineup and find the powertrain that matches your family's lifestyle.