The 2026 Dodge Durango stands apart from other three-row SUVs in a segment that's steadily moving away from V8 power, while the all-new 2027 Kia Telluride is a top-down redesign. If you're shopping for a three-row SUV, find out how these models compare. Which will you drive home?
Key Takeaways:
- Dodge makes the Durango an all-V8 lineup for 2026 as it discontinues the V6.
- Kia replaces the previous Telluride with an entirely redesigned second-generation model--as a result, it skips the 2026 model year.
- The Durango stays in the lead with best-in-class towing capacity and traditional V8 performance.
What's New for the Latest Model of the Dodge Durango?
Dodge eliminates the Durango's V6, making the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 the standard engine in the entry-level GT model. Buyers moving into the R/T now get the 6.4-liter 392 HEMI V8, while the R/T Blacktop Redline Package adds 20-inch gloss-black wheels, black exterior badging, and SRT-inspired aerodynamic styling.
Dodge also celebrates America's milestone birthday with an America250 Special Edition. Available on GT Plus, HEMI Plus, and HEMI Premium models, it features a full-length body stripe star motif, black 20-inch wheels, and patriotic red, white, and blue interior accents.
Kia takes a much different approach. Rather than updating the outgoing Telluride, the automaker ended production after the 2025 model year and now introduces a redesigned second-generation model for 2027 with changes throughout.
What Engine is Found in the 2026 Dodge Durango?
As you've just learned, every 2026 Durango now has only V8 power. The GT models use a 360-hp 5.7-liter HEMI V8, while R/T models upgrade to a 475-hp 6.4-liter 392 HEMI V8. Both engines mate with an eight-speed automatic and are available with either rear- or all-wheel drive.
The redesigned Telluride has only one engine, a 274-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic, and buyers can choose either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Powertrains
| 2026 Dodge Durango |
2027 Kia Telluride |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 or 6.4L 392 V8 |
2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| 8-speed automatic transmission |
8-speed automatic transmission |
| RWD standard, AWD available |
FWD standard, AWD available |
Which Is the Best Three-Row SUV for Towing: The 2026 Dodge Durango or the Kia Telluride?
The Durango also wins in the category. When equipped with the Tow 'n Go Package, it delivers a best-in-class capacity of 8,700 pounds, making it well suited for larger campers, boats, and enclosed trailers. In comparison, the Telluride tows up to 5,500 pounds.
Tech found in the Dodge Durango and Kia Telluride
The Durango features Dodge's 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, one of the easiest infotainment platforms to use thanks to its responsive interface and dedicated physical controls for climate and audio functions. Every Durango includes Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Audio options range from a standard six-speaker stereo to an available 10-speaker Alpine system or a premium 20-speaker Harman/Kardon setup.
The redesigned Telluride comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and offers an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Kia also introduces a new generative AI voice assistant for the latest generation. Audio choices range from a standard 12-speaker sound system to an available 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system.
Which Three-Row SUV Is Right for You?
The Durango's power, best-in-class towing capability, and a lineup that refuses to follow the industry's shift toward smaller engines make it one of the last true muscle SUVs on the road. The Durango remains in a class of its own. At Coleman Motors, we can help you find the perfect Dodge Durango!
