Durango

Make
Dodge
Segment
SUV

Ever since we caught wind of a high-powered Hellcat variant of the Dodge Durango currently in the works, we've been eagerly anticipating the arrival of the tweaked 2021 model. Unfortunately, the current pandemic has presented something of an obstacle to FCA's plans, reportedly pushing delaying US vehicle programs back by some three or four months.

Previously, it had been assumed that the delays would extend to the Durango, but according to a new report, FCA is making that model something of a priority, meaning we could see it keep its original planned autumn start date.

That's according to Mopar Insiders, which reports that the 2021 Dodge Durango ought to be unveiled to the public soon, before entering production at FCA's Jefferson North Assembly Plant on October 5. The outlet's sources have suggested that dealer orders could open as early as August 6 - two months before production kicks off.

The super-potent SRT Hellcat Durango won't be all that's new for the 2021 model year, of course, as previous reports indicate that FCA will also grace its large crossover with the same mild-hybrid eTorque system as on the Ram 1500 and Jeep Wrangler, standard with either the 3.6L Pentastar V6 or the 5.7L Hemi V8.

Additionally, the Dodge Durango is expected to receive tweaked front-end styling, a revamped interior, and brand new technology like FCA's 10.1-inch Uconnect infotainment screen. That's a lot of updates to throw at a vehicle model that's expected to get a head-to-toe redesign within the next two years, but by this point, we'd imagine the vehicle program has paid for itself several times over already.

Rumor has it that the next-generation Dodge Durango could take the form of a traditional body-on-frame SUV similar to previous versions, using the ladder-frame chassis of a new Dodge Dakota mid-size pickup truck. This is unconfirmed for the time being, but trucks are having a bit of a moment right now in the US market, so it's not very difficult to believe.