- Every 2026 Durango is V8-only, with the base GT using a 360 hp 5.7-liter HEMI.
- CARB states lose R/T 392 and SRT Hellcat trims, leaving only the GT available.
- Out-of-state purchases may work, but registration depends on local state laws.
Dodge is going all-in on V8 power for 2026. While fans might be stoked, not everyone is going to have access to the most powerful versions. In states that follow the recommendations of the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the Durango R/T 392 and Durango Hellcat are off the table. Even buying from out of those states could land those who live in CARB states in sticky legal situations.
More: You Asked For More Hemis, So Durango Delivers For 2026
“Starting with orders placed on August 13, every Durango will come standard with a HEMI V8. It’s another Dodge power move that delivers the affordable performance our Dodge customers demand and deserve.” Those are the words of Matt McAlear earlier this year when he proudly announced the latest Durango. Now, though, we’re hearing that dealers have bad news for some customers.
Hemi Power Meets Red Tape
Both the Durango R/T 392 and the Hellcat are ‘FED States Only’ products meaning that they can’t be sold in any state that follows CARB rules. Neither the 6.4-liter V8 nor the 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 meets CARB emissions requirements. Stellantis could probably overcome that with additional certification, tuning, or other modifications, but for now, it seems too costly or too complicated.
Dodge told MoparInsiders that “The HEMI-powered Durango R/T 392 and the Durango SRT HELLCAT are available in non-CARB states. We’re continuing to evaluate the opportunity to provide the full V8-powered Durango lineup to all customers.” In other words, buyers in CARB states could end up getting access at a later date, but for now, it’s off the table.
What Buyers Can Actually Do
That’ll leave said buyers with a few options. They can simply stick with the 5.7-liter V8, but if that’s not enough, they could try to buy from out of state and then register the SUV in the state. That could be a simple process, or it could be one that proves nearly impossible, depending on the regulations in the given state. Or, they can simply wait to see if Dodge decides to rework the certifications and open the bigger V8s to everyone.
