It’s official: there is a new Dodge Durango in town. This model, which has been on sale in its current form for a record-setting 15 years, is now adding an improved performance-oriented variant to its lineup, and there is plenty to be excited about.From premium interior features to a new addition to the engine lineup, the R/T 392 Launch Edition is breathing new life into an SUV with a long history. In this list, we have put together 10 reasons why we think the new member of the Durango family could be the ultimate mainstream SUV, ready to transport a family and offer performance thrills at the same time. Large And In Charge: The 392 Hemi V8 Engine DOdgeOne of the most striking features of the R/T 392 Launch Edition is its engine. Although there have been versions of the Durango powered by a Hemi V8 before, this is a first because Dodge has introduced the 392-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) Hemi V8 to the model. It produces an eye-watering 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The output means the Launch Edition produces the most horsepower in its segment for under $50,000, and is paired with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.The transmission is high-tech and performance-oriented, adapting automatically to factors such as gradient, engine load, traction, and driving style. Although it is automatic, the gearbox also allows manual shifting via paddle shifters or an “M-gate” manual shifter on the center console, offering additional driver engagement and fun. Power is sent to all four wheels via an AWD system that continuously changes the amount of torque going to the front and rear axles. Upgrades Oriented Towards Performance… DOdge When comparing the new R/T 392 Launch Edition to the 2025 Durango R/T with its 5.7-liter Hemi V8, the difference is striking. Not only does the new model produce 32% more power thanks to an additional 115 hp, but it also delivers 21% more torque (80 lb-ft). The 0-60 drops from 6.2 seconds to 4.4 seconds, a time that was not too long ago firmly in performance-car territory and would not be associated with a mid-size SUV.The Launch Edition comes equipped with a host of performance-related upgrades. These include an electronically limited-slip rear axle, an adaptive-damping high-performance suspension, red Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes, a high-performance exhaust, and SRT Performance Drive Modes. ...And Towing Prowess DOdgeAlthough performance is the R/T Launch Edition’s primary focus, it’s important not to lose sight of the fact that the model is still an SUV, with all the practicality one would expect. One of the things this Durango is very good at doing is towing: compared to the 2025 Durango R/T, the new model has 20% more standard towing capacity. The Launch Edition is capable of towing up to 8,700 pounds, making it a top performer in the class. Among the large menu of options, buyers can also get a Trailer Tow Package, which is ideal for drivers who regularly find themselves pulling a trailer. An Aggressive Style To Match DOdgeAll that performance needs matching looks to go with it, and on that front, the Launch Edition definitely delivers. The aggressive silhouette of the Durango is boosted by body-color flares, red “392” fender badging, silver exterior emblems, and a rear spoiler. The Launch Edition is fitted with 20-by-10-inch Satin Carbon wheels, wearing Pirelli Scorpion Zero Run-Flat 295 tires.The Launch Edition also comes with custom aesthetic options. These include the Blacktop Package, which adds Eclipse Black exhaust tips, gloss black exterior badges, and 20-inch Lights Out wheels for a darker look. There are also a variety of stripe color options, including Bright Blue, Carbon Fiber, Flame Red, Low Gloss Gunmetal, and Sterling Silver. An Interior That Balances Comfort And Performance DOdgeThe R/T Launch Edition does not just focus on performance and practicality, it also gives the interior a boost. In the cabin, we find Nappa leather and suede seating. SRT performance, heated/ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs are among the features that give this Durango a premium look and feel.While the bolsters provide support and keep the driver secure during spirited driving, the other features ensure that all vehicle occupants have a pleasant, comfortable experience. The Launch Edition perfectly balances track-ready performance with luxury and family-oriented practicality. A Host Of Premium Features DodgeThere are actually two versions of the R/T 392 Launch Edition. The more expensive of the two is the Launch Edition Premium that comes with a host of standard features that are normally available as options in the Durango’s other trims. Among these amenities are a leather-wrapped instrument panel and door trim, carbon fiber interior accents, a sunroof, a suede headliner, and an 18-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Just One Member Of An Epic Lineup StellantisThe R/T 392 Launch Edition is the latest and most exciting incarnation of the Durango, but it is by no means the only version of the model around. The Durango lineup for 2026 includes plenty of options at a variety of price points and with different powertrains.The entry-level offering is the Durango GT, which starts at $38,995, with all-wheel drive adding a $2,000 premium. This V6-powered version produces 295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Next up, we have the V8-powered versions: the GT HEMI AWD making 360 hp and starting at $43,675. The R/T 392 is next, followed by the SRT Hellcat producing 710 hp and starting at $79,995, and the SRT Hellcat Jailbreak, which comes at a $995 premium and offers over 13 million customization combinations. Carrying The Legacy Of High-Performance Durangos Of The Past Dodge The R/T 392 Launch Edition is not the only performance-oriented Durango to be sold over the years. The R/T trim first appeared in 2000, just two years after the first-gen model’s debut. This version was powered by a 5.9-liter Magnum V8 producing 250 hp.The second generation of the model did not offer an R/T trim, though a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 was available on all trim levels.The third and current generation reintroduced the R/T badge and added other performance-oriented trims: the SRT 392 (offered between 2018 and 2024) and the SRT Hellcat (offered from 2021 onwards). The former was powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 producing 475 hp, while the latter has a 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 making 710 hp. Competitive Pricing Dodge The Durango R/T 392 Launch Edition may be a performance-oriented, premium vehicle, but it is not eye-wateringly expensive. The model starts at $49,995 (excluding tax, title, and fees). Coming in at a hair under the $50,000 mark, it just about manages to obtain the title of most powerful vehicle in its segment at the sub-$50,000 price point.Meanwhile, the Durango R/T 392 Launch Edition Premium, which offers several additional features for an extra dimension of luxury, is, of course, a little more expensive, starting at $57,595. Both versions of the model are now open for orders in all 50 states. Keeping The Durango Fresh And Relevant After A Decade And A Half DodgeThe R/T 392 Launch Edition is a welcome addition to the Durango family, not just because of its unique features, but also for another very important reason. The Durango holds the title of oldest new SUV still on the market today, as its current generation has been on sale for a whopping 15 years and counting.The model was first introduced in 1998, with the first generation remaining in production until 2003. The second generation also lasted five years, being introduced in 2004 and sticking around until 2009.The third and current generation, however, has lasted longer than both the preceding ones put together. It arrived on the market for the 2011 model year, and although it has been refreshed over the years to keep pace with the changing automotive market, it has continued to be sold into the present day.Sources: Dodge