Those who have been reading my stuff over the years may have noticed that I have a soft spot for eight-cylinder powertrains. Like a favorite brand of fermented suds or those select handful of songs that never grow old on the ear, V8s are my preferred preference. I’m aware that these engines are not known for their efficiency, subtlety or political correctness in modern times. Yet, whatever the V8 lacks in grace, it makes up for in showmanship, and no other brand capitalizes on that like Dodge and its signature HEMI V8.
For most of my life, Dodge has supplied a steady stream of V8s to the masses. But, after 2025, it’ll all change for a new era of thrilling horsepower and torque specs achieved with fewer pistons, more turbochargers and lithium-ion batteries. But until that approaching future arrives, I had the opportunity to drive one of the last examples of what certain members of future generations will refer to as a “golden age” in automotive performance – an Octane Red 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat.
Key Highlights
Performance: 710 hp supercharged HEMI V8!
Fuel Economy: Does it really matter? 14 mpg averaged over 1,000 miles.
Favorite Detail: Accelerating from zero to 60 in under 4 seconds.
Nitpick: Low quality resolution backup camera.
Split Personality SUV
This three-row, seven-seat family SUV carries a split personality. One that caters to family car values like big gulp hugging cup holders, snappy folding seats, wide-opening rear doors to lug bulky car seats into and side curtain airbags to keep all three rows safe. Then there’s the other side triggered by heavy throttle input that turns the SUV’s docile demeanor into a red mist of supercharged wrath. Unleashing a fear curdling fury propelled further with the sharpened grip of an all-wheel-drive system clawing at the pavement, accelerating adrenaline into your blood.
Source of Power
The source of its power lurks under the hood. A growling 6.2L supercharged HEMI V8 mixing air and premium fuel into 710 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque. This results in an SUV that will see 60 mph in under four seconds and sprint into felony traffic stop speeds according to its 200-mph speedometer and the two buttons on the center console labeled “SRT” and “Launch.” It elevates its speed so effortlessly that it highlights the worst thing about driving a high-performance vehicle – sharing the road with everyone else. Nevertheless, the Durango SRT Hellcat can use its muscle for other purposes besides speed, such as towing up to 8,700 pounds.
Superman’s Cape Red Interior
The model I tested came with Superman’s cape red upholstery accented with forged carbon fiber trim and a suede headliner as part of the optional Premium 2XY Package ($11,205). This top-shelf premium pack also included a 19-speaker Kardon Harmon audio system with a subwoofer to turn any song up to eleven.
One feature that delighted me every time I was in the driver’s seat was the center console-mounted automatic shift lever. This lever is identical to what you’d see in the Dodge Challenger and Charger. Pulling that lever down into drive and feeling the V8 vibrate under your right foot as you set off is incredibly satisfying.
However, this vibrant interior is not without faults. Compared to other 2024 model SUVs, the Durango’s rear backup camera looks low-res and grainy, like watching a video captured by the 2007 Motorola Razr flip phone. But I like the bright red pull-cords used to operate the easy-folding rear seats, which make you feel like you’re pulling the ripcord on a parachute.
Matters of the Heart
Unsurprisingly, the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is not a fuel sipper. It’s rated at 12 mpg in the city and 17 mph on the highway. Throughout a 1,000-mile road test, I averaged 14 mpg. Then there’s the elephant in the room, the price. Granted, this is one of the “last of the V8s,” and that comes with a certain future-collector premium Dodge is looking to squeeze out of every model, but asking six figures for a vehicle built on an aging platform and drivetrain doesn’t make it a great value. You don’t buy a Hellcat powered Durango with your wallet; you buy it with your heart because that’s the only way you’ll be able to justify the expense.
However, price and constant fuel stops aside, the Durango SRT delivers as a family SUV. When my two-year-old goddaughter was buckled into her car seat, the sound of the V8 starting up and revving excited her curiosity. A few miles later, that steady V8 rumble and gentle ride put her to sleep.
Engine: 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8
Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
0 to 60: 3.4 seconds
Starting Price: $95,995 (SRT Hellcat)
Price as Shown: $109,190 (SRT Hellcat Premium)
Jesus Behind the Wheel 