The Dodge Durango has long been recognized for its powerful presence in the SUV market, seamlessly blending utility with exhilarating performance. For the 2024 model year, Dodge continues to assert its dominance, spearheaded by the king of the lineup – the 2024 Dodge Durango Srt Hellcat. This isn’t just an SUV; it’s the most powerful SUV on the planet, meticulously engineered for performance enthusiasts who demand family-friendly practicality without compromising on raw power and thrilling driving dynamics. The Durango SRT Hellcat stands as the ultimate embodiment of muscle car DNA infused into a versatile SUV form, boasting staggering performance figures that firmly establish its class-leading position. Prepare to delve into the details of a vehicle that redefines expectations, offering an unmatched combination of brute force and sophisticated technology.
The Reigning King: 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Performance Prowess
At the heart of the 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat lies a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat V-8 engine, a powerhouse that unleashes a monstrous 710 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque. These aren’t just numbers; they translate to an adrenaline-pumping driving experience that few SUVs can even dream of matching. The Durango SRT Hellcat doesn’t just claim performance; it proves it with breathtaking metrics: sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, conquering a National Hot Rod Association (NHRA)-certified quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds, and achieving a top speed of 180 mph. These figures place the Durango SRT Hellcat in a league of its own, surpassing competitors and cementing its status as the quickest, most powerful, and most capable three-row SUV available.
To ensure this immense power is delivered reliably and efficiently, the 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat incorporates a suite of advanced engineering features. A dedicated cooling circuit for the charge air coolers, integrated within the supercharger housing, maintains optimal air intake temperatures below 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This system includes a pump, coolant reservoir, and heat exchanger, vital for sustained high-performance driving. The supercharger itself features twin-screw rotors meticulously set to minimize air leakage, maximizing boost pressure and overall engine efficiency. An integrated electronic bypass valve regulates boost pressure to a peak of 11.6 psi, while the 2.38-liter supercharger operates at a drive ratio of 2.36:1, reaching a maximum speed of 14,600 rpm.
The engine’s robust construction includes a cast-iron block with water jackets for optimal cooling and a forged-steel crankshaft with induction-hardened bearing surfaces built to withstand extreme stress. High-strength, forged-alloy pistons and powder-forged connecting rods further enhance durability, while piston-cooling oil jets help manage heat under intense operation. The cylinder heads are crafted from heat-treated aluminum-alloy, and the exhaust valves are sodium-cooled, complemented by hollow-stem intake valves and steel-alloy heads capable of enduring temperatures as high as 1,652 degrees Fahrenheit. A cold-air scoop integrated into the lower front fascia directly feeds the supercharger and the Hellcat engine’s massive 92-mm throttle body, ensuring maximum airflow for peak performance. Finally, the exhaust system is expertly tuned to produce the signature, throaty Dodge roar that performance enthusiasts crave.
Seamless Power Delivery and Driver-Focused Dynamics
Power in the 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is managed by the TorqueFlite 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission, renowned for its responsiveness and durability. This transmission features steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for drivers who desire manual control and offers seven distinct Drive modes: Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, Tow, Eco, and Valet. Each mode is specifically calibrated to optimize performance and handling for various conditions, allowing drivers to tailor the Durango SRT Hellcat’s behavior to their preferences and the environment.
For those seeking to personalize their 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat further, Dodge offers available Plus and Premium packages. The Plus Package enhances comfort and convenience with high-performance Laguna leather seats, Trailer-tow Group, a power sunroof, and advanced safety features. Stepping up to the Premium Package adds red seatbelts, a leather-wrapped instrument panel, carbon fiber interior accents, and a Harman Kardon 19-speaker sound system, creating an even more luxurious and engaging cabin experience.
Beyond the Hellcat: The 2024 Dodge Durango Lineup
While the SRT Hellcat steals the spotlight, the 2024 Dodge Durango lineup offers a diverse range of models and powertrain options to cater to various needs and preferences. The Durango SRT 392, powered by a 392-cubic-inch HEMI V-8 engine, delivers 475 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and a NHRA-certified quarter-mile time of 12.9 seconds. It also matches the SRT Hellcat’s best-in-class towing capacity of 8,700 pounds.
The classic 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, standard on the Durango R/T and available on the Citadel, provides a robust 360 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. For those prioritizing efficiency, the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, standard on the Durango Citadel, GT, and SXT, offers up to 295 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque while maintaining a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds.
For the 2024 model year, the Durango Citadel joins the R/T in offering the Tow N Go Package, previously exclusive to the R/T. This package brings SRT-inspired looks and enhanced performance, including best-in-class towing of 8,700 pounds, an increased top speed of 145 mph, Track, Sport, Snow, and Tow drive modes, and a retuned SRT-performance exhaust on the R/T Tow N Go model. Furthermore, Blind Spot Monitoring becomes standard across the entire Durango lineup, with a new Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Detect function included with the Trailer Tow Group, enhancing safety and driver confidence.
Design and Technology: Modern Muscle Meets Advanced Features
The 2024 Dodge Durango retains its distinctive and muscular exterior styling, embodying Dodge’s iconic DNA. The front fascia, LED lighting, sculpted hood, and grille all contribute to a bold and aggressive appearance. Inside, the Durango offers a driver-oriented cockpit with a redesigned instrument panel, center console, and door uppers. Heated front seats are standard across all models, and an available 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 system, angled towards the driver, integrates seamlessly into the dashboard.
The Uconnect 5 system is five times faster than its predecessor, offering enhanced connectivity, personalization, and a user-friendly interface. It includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features and offers available wireless charging. SRT models boast unique Uconnect features, including SRT Performance Pages for real-time vehicle performance data and configurable drive modes.
The 2024 Dodge Durango continues to provide uncompromised utility with standard seven-passenger seating and available second-row captain’s chairs. It also offers over 60 available safety and security features, including standard Blind-spot Monitoring and available Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Family Performance SUV
The 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat stands unchallenged as the pinnacle of performance SUVs, offering an unparalleled combination of raw power, refined dynamics, and family-friendly versatility. Whether you’re drawn to the unmatched horsepower of the SRT Hellcat, the balanced performance of the SRT 392, or the efficiency of the Pentastar V6, the Durango lineup delivers a compelling option for those who refuse to compromise. With its class-leading towing capability, advanced technology, and distinctive Dodge styling, the 2024 Dodge Durango remains the definitive choice for enthusiasts seeking a true muscle SUV that can handle every aspect of modern life.
