The 2018 Dodge Durango GT serves as the sport-styled mid-tier trim of Dodge's three-row midsize SUV, pairing the muscular exterior appearance of the higher V8-powered trims with the efficiency and everyday drivability of the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. It bridges the gap between the base SXT models and the high-performance R/T and SRT variants, offering aggressive styling elements, a driver-focused interior, and robust utility features.
Introduction to the 2018 Dodge Durango GT
When automotive shoppers and enthusiasts research the 2018 Dodge Durango GT, they are typically looking for a comprehensive breakdown of what sets this specific trim apart from the broader Durango lineup. Released during the third-generation Durango production run, the GT trim was introduced to give buyers the aggressive SRT-inspired fascia, LED running lights, and larger wheels without requiring the step up to a heavier, more expensive V8 engine.
Understanding the 2018 Durango GT requires examining its powertrain architecture, chassis tuning, interior technology, seating configurations, and towing capabilities. Whether you are evaluating a used model or researching historical automotive specifications, this guide provides a granular look at the engineering, dimensions, and standard versus optional equipment that define the 2018 Dodge Durango GT.
Powertrain and Mechanical Specifications
At the heart of the 2018 Dodge Durango GT is Chrysler’s ubiquitous 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This powerplant utilizes an aluminum block and aluminum cylinder heads, dual overhead cams (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT) to deliver a balance of usable low-end torque and highway efficiency.
- Engine Displacement: 3.6 liters (220 cubic inches)
- Horsepower: 295 horsepower at 6,400 RPM
- Torque: 260 lb-ft at 4,800 RPM
- Valvetrain: Chain-driven DOHC with 24 valves and VVT
- Fuel Induction: Sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection
- Recommended Fuel: Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane acceptable, 89 recommended for optimal performance)
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power is routed through a ZF-sourced TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission. This transmission features electronic range selection, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters (standard on the GT trim), and adaptive shift programming that adjusts shift points based on driving style and load.
Buyers could configure the 2018 Durango GT in either Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD). The AWD system utilizes a single-speed active transfer case that continuously monitors wheel slip and distributes torque to the front axle when necessary, ensuring enhanced traction in inclement weather without requiring driver intervention.
Exterior Dimensions and Styling Cues
The 2018 Durango GT adopted several aggressive design cues previously reserved for the V8-powered R/T trim. Built on a sturdy unibody platform shared with the Jeep Grand Cherokee (though stretched significantly to accommodate a third row), the Durango GT features a commanding road presence.
- Wheelbase: 119.8 inches
- Overall Length: 511.0 inches (201.2 inches)
- Overall Width (excluding mirrors): 75.8 inches
- Overall Height: 70.9 inches
- Ground Clearance: 8.1 inches
- Curb Weight: Approximately 4,756 lbs (RWD) to 4,968 lbs (AWD)
Distinctive exterior features standard on the GT include a performance-inspired front fascia with projector fog lamps, LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), a gloss-black grille, and standard 20-inch hyper black aluminum wheels wrapped in 265/50R20 all-season tires. A power liftgate also comes standard, adding daily convenience.
Interior Layout, Comfort, and Cargo Capacity
Inside, the 2018 Dodge Durango GT provides a driver-centric cockpit finished with sporty accents. Unlike lower trims, the GT comes standard with leather-trimmed seats featuring perforated suede inserts, power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support, and heated front seats and steering wheel.
Seating and Passenger Space
The vehicle features a standard three-row configuration seating up to seven passengers in a 2-3-2 layout:
- Front Row: Bucket seats with generous head and legroom (39.9 inches of headroom, 40.3 inches of legroom).
- Second Row: A 60/40 split-folding bench seat with fold-down armrest and cupholders. Second-row captain's chairs were available as an optional standalone upgrade, reducing total seating capacity to six.
- Third Row: A 50/50 split-folding bench seat designed primarily for children or occasional adult use, featuring easy fold-flat capability into the cargo floor.
Cargo Volume
The Durango offers versatile cargo management options:
- Behind Third Row: 17.2 cubic feet
- Behind Second Row (Third Row Folded): 43.3 cubic feet
- Maximum Cargo Capacity (All Rear Seats Folded): 84.5 cubic feet
Technology, Infotainment, and Safety Features
Technology in the 2018 Durango GT centers around Fiat Chrysler's Uconnect system, widely praised in the automotive industry for its intuitive interface, quick processing speeds, and crisp graphics.
Infotainment System
- Standard Display: 8.4-inch touchscreen display (Uconnect 4C).
- Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, allowing seamless smartphone mirroring.
- Audio: Standard Alpine audio system featuring 9 speakers, a subwoofer, and a 506-watt amplifier.
- Ports: Multiple USB ports, auxiliary input jacks, and a 115-volt auxiliary power outlet.
Safety and Driver Assistance
While advanced active safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning were optional safety packages, standard baseline safety equipment on the 2018 GT included:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Roll Mitigation
- Trailer Sway Damping
- Hill Start Assist
- ParkSense Rear Park Assist System with dynamic gridlines
- ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera
- Advanced multistage front airbags, supplemental side-curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags
Towing Capacity and Performance Metrics
Despite utilizing the V6 engine rather than the legendary 5.7L HEMI V8, the 2018 Dodge Durango GT maintains impressive towing capability when properly equipped.
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 6,200 lbs when equipped with the optional Trailer Tow Group IV package.
- Trailer Tow Group IV Contents: Includes a Class IV hitch receiver, 4- and 7-pin wiring harness, heavy-duty engine cooling, rear load-leveling shocks, and a full-size spare tire.
- Fuel Economy Estimates (EPA Ratings):
- RWD: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined.
- AWD: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 24.6 gallons, providing a substantial cruising range on highway road trips.
Detailed Specifications Summary
| Specification Category | 2018 Dodge Durango GT Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 3.6L Pentastar V6 DOHC 24V VVT |
| Horsepower | 295 hp @ 6,400 RPM |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft @ 4,800 RPM |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP50) with paddle shifters |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (Standard) / All-Wheel Drive (Optional) |
| Wheel Size & Tires | 20-inch x 8.0-inch Hyper Black aluminum, 265/50R20 all-season |
| Seating Capacity | 7 standard (6 optional with second-row captain's chairs) |
| Max Towing Capacity | 6,200 lbs (with Trailer Tow Group IV) |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 18 City / 25 Hwy / 21 Combined MPG |
| Infotainment Screen | 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Apple CarPlay / Android Auto |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2018 Dodge Durango GT come with a V8 engine?
No. The 2018 Dodge Durango GT comes exclusively with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 295 horsepower. If you want a V8 engine in the 2018 Durango lineup, you must step up to the R/T trim (which features the 5.7-liter HEMI V8) or the SRT trim (powered by the 6.4-liter HEMI V8).
What is the towing capacity of a 2018 Dodge Durango GT?
When properly equipped with the Trailer Tow Group IV package, the V6-powered Durango GT can tow up to 6,200 lbs. Without this factory towing package, towing is not recommended or is limited to lower weight thresholds depending on aftermarket receiver installations.
Is the 2018 Dodge Durango GT available in all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive (AWD) was available as an option across all trim levels of the 2018 Durango, including the GT. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) was standard on the GT, offering slightly better fuel economy and a traditional driving dynamic.
Does the 2018 Durango GT have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. The 2018 Durango GT features the 8.4-inch Uconnect 4C touchscreen infotainment system as standard equipment, which includes native support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.
How many seats does the 2018 Dodge Durango GT have?
The Durango GT comes standard with a three-row seating configuration that accommodates up to seven passengers. Buyers could also select an optional second-row captain's chair configuration, which reduces the seating capacity to six passengers while adding a center console and pass-through space.
Final Recommendation
The 2018 Dodge Durango GT represents a sweet spot for buyers seeking a spacious, aggressive-looking three-row SUV without the heavy fuel consumption associated with V8 engines. When evaluating a used model, verify whether it is equipped with All-Wheel Drive if you live in a climate with severe winters, and look for models featuring the Trailer Tow Group IV if you plan on hauling boats, campers, or utility trailers. Always request a comprehensive vehicle history report and check for routine maintenance records regarding the transmission and cooling systems.
