This Is The Cheapest V8-Powered SUV You Can Buy Right Now originally appeared on Autoblog.
Accessible V8s are rare, but here’s one of them
In recent months, the V8 engine has had a bit of a revival. Dodge’s CEO hinted that the Hemi V8 would be returning to the new Charger, while Jeep will be expanding the availability of its V8 across its range. Before that, Ram reintroduced the V8 engine option for its 1500 pickup.
What hasn’t changed is that the average V8-powered vehicle is pretty pricey to buy. That brings us to the subject of this piece: If you want a practical SUV but are desperate for the roar of a V8, what’s the cheapest model you can buy, and how much is it?
2026 Dodge Durango GT Is The Cheapest V8 SUV
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Dodge just announced that the Hemi V8 engine is now standard across the entire 2026 Durango lineup, replacing the previous V6 on lower trims. With an MSRP of $42,495, that makes the 2026 Dodge Durango GT the cheapest V8-powered SUV you can buy right now—pictured above is the 2025 Durango GT, as Dodge hasn't yet shared images of the updated GT.
The GT has a slightly detuned version of the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, but it still packs a punch with 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque; that’s 22% more power and 50% more torque than the previous V6. Not only does it sound a lot better, but the 0-60 time drops from 7.4 to 6.2 seconds.
For even more power, the Durango R/T produces 475 hp and 470 lb-ft from its Hemi V8, and still costs under $50,000. Nothing else in the segment comes close to that kind of power. Most three-row rivals have turbo-fours or V6s making under 300 hp. Mazda will sell you a 340-horsepower I6 version of its CX-90, but that costs over $50k.
Related: 2026 Dodge Durango Goes All-V8 — Even the Base Model Gets a Hemi
A Practical SUV With Cool Styling
Not only is the base Durango GT quicker than its rivals, but it’s also practical and not boring to look at, despite how long it has been around. It has 33.5 inches of third-row legroom, which is not class-leading but fine for kids. The cargo area behind the third row measures 17.2 cubic feet, rising to 43.3 cubic feet behind the second row.
Dodge hasn’t yet released the full specification sheet for 2026 Durangos, but it should at least match the 2025 model. For the GT, expect LED headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels. The 2025 model had a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, three-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating, and the user-friendly UConnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen.
Dealer orders for the cheapest 2026 Durango (and the SRT Hellcat with 710 hp) have already opened, and these models will arrive at dealerships in the fourth quarter. Orders for the R/T will open later in the year.
Related: 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Review: I Daily Drive it, Worth $100k? Let's Find out
Final Thoughts
The cheapest Dodge Durango is not the best vehicle in its class. If you want something more luxurious, get a Mazda CX-90. Models like the Toyota Grand Highlander and Kia Telluride are more practical and come with a more generous list of features, while incorporating more modern interfaces.
But none of these three-row rivals are nearly as fun or refreshingly old-school as the Durango GT V8. That Hemi V8 adds a level of driver appeal and performance that’s largely missing in this segment and at this price point, and as long as you’re okay with the relatively high fuel bills, the 2026 Durango is easily the enthusiast’s choice in this class.
This Is The Cheapest V8-Powered SUV You Can Buy Right Now first appeared on Autoblog on Aug 17, 2025
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Aug 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
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