The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is making a comeback for the 2023 model year, ready to reclaim its title as the most powerful SUV on the planet. With its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat V-8 engine, producing a staggering 710 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2023 Durango SRT Hellcat is a force to be reckoned with. This SUV is the perfect choice for muscle enthusiasts who also have families.
According to Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand CEO, the enthusiasm and demand for the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat have been off the charts since its introduction in 2020. As a result, Dodge is bringing back the most powerful SUV ever as part of its 2023 lineup. Kuniskis emphasized that the Durango SRT Hellcat not only offers incredible performance but also has the capacity to tow up to 8,700 pounds, making it a versatile option for families on the move.
Unmatched Performance
The 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat boasts impressive performance figures that back up its claims. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, achieve a National Hot Rod Association (NHRA)-certified quarter-mile elapsed time of 11.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 180 mph. With these numbers, it’s clear that this SUV means serious business.
A True Muscle Family
By joining the ranks of the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger, the Durango SRT Hellcat expands the lineup of SRT Hellcat models. In addition, it contributes to the Durango lineup, which now includes six models: SXT, GT, R/T, Citadel, SRT 392, and the mighty SRT Hellcat. This means that Durango enthusiasts have a wide range of options to choose from based on their preferences and needs.
Coming Soon
Orders for the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat will open in September 2022, with the first deliveries expected in early 2023. Fans and enthusiasts will soon be able to experience the power and thrill of this remarkable SUV.
Exquisite Engineering
The Durango SRT Hellcat features a range of engineering innovations designed to optimize its performance. SRT engineers have fine-tuned the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 Hellcat engine specifically for the Durango. Notable performance features and components of the engine include:
- Dedicated cooling circuit for charge air coolers integrated into the supercharger housing, ensuring optimal airflow at temperatures below 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Twin-screw rotors in the supercharger set close to minimize air leakage and maximize performance.
- Integrated electronic bypass valve regulating boost pressure to a maximum of 11.6 psi (80 kPa), with a supercharger drive ratio of 2.36:1.
- Cast-iron engine block with water jackets for optimal cooling between the cylinders.
- Forged-steel crankshaft with induction-hardened bearing surfaces.
- Specially tuned crankshaft damper burst tested to 13,000 rpm.
- High-strength, forged-alloy pistons for enhanced durability.
- Powder-forged connecting rods with high-load-capacity bushings and diamond-like, carbon-coated piston pins.
- Piston-cooling oil jets for improved heat dissipation.
- Heat-treated aluminum-alloy cylinder heads.
- Sodium-cooled exhaust valves, hollow-stem intake valves, and steel-alloy heads that can withstand temperatures as high as 1,652 degrees Fahrenheit (900 degrees Celsius).
- Cold-air scoop in the lower front fascia to feed the supercharger and the Hellcat engine’s 92-mm throttle body.
- Exhaust system tuned to deliver the signature throaty Dodge DNA sound.
- TorqueFlite 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddles for manual-style shifting and seven available drive modes: Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, Tow, Eco, and Valet.
Design and Style
The Durango SRT Hellcat features bold styling that exudes the unmistakable Dodge DNA. Its front fascia includes a chin splitter, engine oil cooler duct, air guide, and snorkel for cold air induction. The rear spoiler not only enhances the SUV’s aerodynamic balance but also generates significant rear downforce of 140 lbs. @ 180 mph.
The Durango’s profile is sleek and forward-leaning, complemented by LED low/high headlamps, LED daytime running lamp (DRL) signatures, and a sculpted hood and grille. The SRT Hellcat fender badges proudly declare the Durango’s extraordinary performance capabilities.
Inside the Durango SRT Hellcat, the driver-oriented cockpit is refined, upscale, and high-tech. It features an available 10.1-inch touchscreen positioned at a 7-degree angle for easy access. The SRT Hellcat variant comes with red-accented gauges and standard heated and ventilated Nappa leather with suede front seats, complete with an embroidered SRT logo.
Additional Highlights and Customization
The 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat offers a range of features and options to enhance the driving experience. Some notable highlights include:
- Electric power steering (EPS) with selectable steering tuning for increased grip.
- EPS and SRT drive modes accessible through the 10.1-inch Uconnect infotainment screen, allowing drivers to tailor their driving experience by controlling various parameters such as shift speeds, steering, paddle shifters, traction, all-wheel drive (AWD), and suspension.
- Unique Uconnect features for Durango SRT models, including a “Smoke Show” start-up animation, climate control page with Dodge stripe adjustable climate control icon and “Mode person” with a race helmet, and the use of the unique Serpentine font throughout the Durango display system.
- SRT Drive modes with settings for Street (Auto), Sport, Track, and a Custom mode that enables drivers to customize their preferences.
- Launch Control feature easily accessible from a toggle switch in the cockpit, enabling consistent straight-line acceleration by managing tire slip during launch.
- Launch Assist that uses wheel speed sensors to detect wheel hop at launch and adjust engine torque nearly instantaneously, ensuring optimal grip.
- Impressive braking performance thanks to massive Brembo high-performance six-piston, two-piece (front) and four-piston (rear) calipers, and vented rotors measuring 15.75 inches (front) and 13.8 inches (rear) at all four corners.
- Durango-specific tuning, weight distribution, wheelbase, and reduced understeer for improved grip and cornering.
Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to personalize their 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat with available Plus and Premium packages that offer additional features. The Plus package includes high-performance Laguna leather seats, a trailer tow group, a power sunroof, and advanced safety features. The Premium package adds even more luxury and style with red seatbelts, a leather-wrapped instrument panel, carbon fiber interior accents, and a Harman Kardon 19-speaker sound system.
To get a glimpse of the Durango SRT Hellcat’s aggressive styling, the M1 Concourse event showcased the available Blacktop package, featuring Gloss Black badging, Gloss Black mirror caps, and 20-inch Black Noise wheels.
FAQs
Q: When can I order the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat?
A: Orders for the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat will open in September 2022.
Q: When will the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat arrive in dealerships?
A: The Hellcat is scheduled to arrive in dealerships in early 2023.
Q: How much horsepower does the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat have?
A: The 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat boasts an impressive 710 horsepower.
Q: What is the top speed of the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat?
A: The Durango SRT Hellcat can reach a top speed of 180 mph.
Q: How much can the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat tow?
A: The 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat has a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds.
Conclusion
The 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat brings unrivaled performance and power to the SUV segment. With its supercharged HEMI V-8 engine, bold styling, and innovative features, this SUV is a true beast on the road. Whether you’re a muscle car enthusiast or a family looking for a versatile and thrilling SUV, the Durango SRT Hellcat is here to exceed your expectations. Stay tuned for more updates and be prepared to experience the power of the most powerful SUV ever created.