Sam Krahn 
The updated 2021 Dodge Durango is incoming, and it appears FCA isn’t even going to let the Coronavirus pandemic affect it too much. It’s unclear if FCA was planning on revealing and launching the SUV any sooner, but Mopar Insiders is reporting a production start date of October 5, and dealer ordering opening August 6, 2020. This means a reveal is definitely happening this summer, possibly soon.
Mopar Insiders’ sources say the updated Durango has been a priority during the shutdowns associated with COVID-19. Engineers working on the project were supposedly developing the vehicle from home, in their own garages. This is all in an effort to get the vehicle to market with little or no delay. That’s dedication.
There is a good chance Dodge intended to reveal the 2021 Durango at the Detroit Auto Show in June, but it has since been canceled. Now, expect a debut in the form of a standalone event, likely streamed online or with a limited press audience. FCA could even introduce the Durango and other upcoming FCA models like the new Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ram Rebel TRX at a joint event this summer.
The 2021 Dodge Durango won’t be an all-new model, but rather a significant update on the current vehicle. The biggest changes come in the powertrain department, with the introduction of the first ever Durango Hellcat. This model is also rumored to be introduced with a special, limited edition model.
Below the Durango Hellcat, the mid-level performance Durango SRT should continue for 2021. Also a first for the Durango will be hybrid models. All powertrains under the SRT model will gain FCA’s eTourque mild hybrid system. The base engines will be the Pentastar V6 and 5.7 liter HEMI V8 available, both mild hybrids.
Other than the powertrains, the 2021 Dodge Durango will get a new front facia and headlights On the inside, expect a revamped interior, and possibly the 10.1 inch Uconnect infotainment system from the Ram 1500.
