Chesrown CDJR of Sidney
For years, the choice between a Dodge Durango GT and an R/T was simple: did you want a sensible V6 daily driver (GT) or a V8 muscle truck (R/T)?
For 2026, Dodge has rewritten the rules.
In a bold move to celebrate the end of an era, Dodge has standardized HEMI® power across the retail lineup. The V6 is largely relegated to fleet duty, meaning the 2026 Durango GT now comes with the legendary 5.7L HEMI® V-8 as its primary engine. Consequently, the R/T has graduated to the massive 6.4L “392” HEMI® V-8.
This shift changes everything for Sidney, Ohio buyers. The question is no longer “V6 or V8?”, it is now “5.7L or 6.4L?” This guide breaks down the new heavy-hitting comparison.
The biggest news for 2026 is under the hood. The GT inherits the engine that made the R/T famous, while the R/T inherits the engine that made the SRT® famous.
| Feature | 2026 Dodge Durango GT | 2026 Dodge Durango R/T |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 5.7L HEMI® V-8 | 6.4L “392” HEMI® V-8 |
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 475 hp |
| Torque | 390 lb-ft | 470 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | ~6.2 Seconds | ~4.4 Seconds |
| Drivetrain | AWD Available | AWD Standard |
The Takeaway: The 2026 GT is significantly faster than last year’s model, cutting over a second off its 0-60 time. It is now a true muscle SUV. The R/T, however, is now a legitimate performance monster, offering nearly 500 horsepower without needing a supercharger.
For Sidney families hauling boats to Indian Lake, both trims are capable, but the R/T is the clear heavyweight.
Durango GT |
Durango R/T |
|---|---|
 |
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| Rated to tow up to 7,400 lbs. This is plenty for most pontoon boats, mid-size travel trailers, and dual-axle utility trailers. | When equipped with the Tow N Go Package, the R/T achieves a Best-in-Class 8,700 lbs towing capacity. This package also adds upgraded Brembo® brakes and adaptive damping suspension to handle the extra load with stability. |
This is where the difference in “feel” becomes apparent.
Durango GT: Tuned for comfort and daily drivability. It absorbs the bumps of Shelby County roads well while still feeling planted.
Durango R/T: Features a sport-tuned suspension and steering. It is stiffer, flatter in the corners, and more responsive. If you opt for the Tow N Go package, you get the SRT® Active Damping Suspension, which adjusts shock stiffness in real-time for track-level handling or towing stability.
Dodge offers distinct visual packages to separate the trims.
Durango GT Blacktop |
Durango R/T Redline |
|---|---|
 |
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| A Sidney favorite. It adds gloss black badging, black mirror caps, and 20-inch black noise wheels for a sinister, street-ready look. | New for 2026, this package combines the blacked-out aesthetic with aggressive Redline Red stripe accents, 20-inch forged wheels, and red brake calipers. It visually signals the 6.4L power lurking under the hood. |
Buy the GT if: You want the rumble and passing power of a V8 but need a vehicle that remains practical for the school run and road trips. It offers a massive power upgrade over the outgoing V6 without the premium price tag of the 392.
Buy the R/T if: You demand exhilaration. The 6.4L engine transforms the Durango into a three-row muscle car that can embarrass sports sedans at stoplights. It is the perfect choice for the enthusiast who needs to tow 8,700 lbs but refuses to drive a boring truck.