The Dodge Durango R/T is a three-row, mid-size SUV produced by Dodge as part of the third-generation Durango lineup, which began with the 2011 model year and continues through 2026.
The R/T trim is the V-8 performance-oriented version within the Durango lineup, equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine across its production run.
This guide covers the Dodge Durango R/T towing capacity by model year, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, tongue weight, GCWR, and hitch requirements for each configuration.
Following manufacturer-rated towing specifications helps protect the engine, transmission, cooling system, and braking components from overload.
Quick Navigation
2026 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) with Tow N Go Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 1,440 lbs (653 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 870 lbs (327 to 395 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2026 Dodge Durango R/T offers a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 lbs when properly equipped. Models with the Tow N Go Package provide the highest trailer weight rating.
Staying within rated limits improves braking control, drivetrain reliability, and towing stability.
2025 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,350 lbs (612 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2025 Dodge Durango R/T has a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 lbs in rear-wheel drive form. All-wheel drive models are rated slightly lower at 7,200 lbs. Proper tow package equipment is required to reach the full trailer weight limit.
2024 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) with Tow N Go Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,350 lbs (612 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 870 lbs (327 to 395 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 Dodge Durango R/T towing capacity reaches 8,700 lbs when equipped with the Tow N Go Package. Standard models are rated at 7,200 lbs with AWD or 7,400 lbs with RWD. The tow package remains the key factor for the highest trailer weight rating.
2023 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) with Tow N Go Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,350 lbs (612 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 870 lbs (327 to 395 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Dodge Durango R/T follows the same towing specifications as the 2024 model year. Properly equipped models can tow up to 8,700 lbs with the Tow N Go Package. Standard configurations remain below that maximum trailer weight figure.
2022 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) with Tow N Go Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,350 lbs (612 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 870 lbs (327 to 395 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Dodge Durango R/T provides up to 8,700 lbs of towing capacity when fully equipped. Standard 5.7L HEMI models tow less, depending on drivetrain. GCWR and payload capacity should always be checked before loading passengers and cargo.
2021 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) with Tow N Go Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 870 lbs (327 to 395 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Dodge Durango R/T was the first year to offer the Tow N Go Package. That setup increased maximum towing capacity to 8,700 lbs on eligible models. Standard towing limits remained 7,200 lbs for AWD and 7,400 lbs for RWD.
2020 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Dodge Durango R/T has a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 lbs in rear-wheel drive form. All-wheel drive models are rated at 7,200 lbs. Heavy-duty cooling and the proper tow package are needed for the full towing limit.
2019 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Dodge Durango R/T continues the same towing specification pattern as adjacent model years. Rear-wheel drive models tow slightly more than all-wheel drive versions. Configuration and equipment determine the final trailer weight rating.
2018 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2018 Dodge Durango R/T offers up to 7,400 lbs of towing capacity in the correct configuration. AWD models remain limited to 7,200 lbs. Payload capacity and tongue weight should be reviewed together before towing near the maximum limit.
2017 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 Dodge Durango R/T retains the same towing limits as nearby model years. RWD models provide the highest conventional towing capacity. Tongue weight and GCWR remain important checks for safe trailer loading.
2016 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2016 Dodge Durango R/T can tow up to 7,400 lbs with rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models are rated slightly lower. Tow package equipment is necessary to support the full towing specifications.
2015 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 14,600 lbs (6,623 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2015 Dodge Durango R/T shows a small towing difference between drivetrains. Rear-wheel drive models reach 7,400 lbs, while all-wheel drive models reach 7,200 lbs. This rating structure continued for several later model years.
2014 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,400 lbs RWD / 7,200 lbs AWD (3,357 / 3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs AWD / 7,400 lbs RWD (3,266 / 3,357 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,200 lbs (5,987 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 to 740 lbs (327 to 336 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2014 Dodge Durango R/T is one of the earlier years with a higher RWD towing limit. Proper trailer loading remains essential because GCWR and payload capacity are lower than some newer model years. Always match the hitch class to the trailer setup.
2013 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,200 lbs (5,987 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 lbs (327 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2013 Dodge Durango R/T has a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 lbs regardless of drivetrain. RWD and AWD models share the same trailer weight rating in this period. GCWR should still be verified before towing with passengers and cargo onboard.
2012 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,200 lbs (5,987 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 lbs (327 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2012 Dodge Durango R/T matches the 2011 and 2013 model years for towing specifications. Maximum trailer weight is 7,200 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V-8. Hitch setup and trailer brakes remain important for towing near rated limits.
2011 Dodge Durango R/T Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,280 lbs (581 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,200 lbs (5,987 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 720 lbs (327 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2011 Dodge Durango R/T is the first model year of the current-generation Durango. It offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 lbs with either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. This makes it one of the baseline reference years for Dodge Durango R/T towing specs.
Towing Equipment & Setup Tips
Proper towing equipment is required to safely use the Dodge Durango R/T near its rated towing capacity. The correct setup helps support braking performance, vehicle control, and drivetrain durability under load.
Factory Tow Package
The factory tow package adds key towing equipment such as a Class IV hitch receiver, wiring harness, trailer brake controller, and heavy-duty cooling components. Models without the proper tow package may have lower towing limits even if the engine and drivetrain are the same.
Trailer Brakes
Trailer brakes are important when towing heavier loads. A trailer brake controller helps synchronize trailer braking with the vehicle and improves stopping distance. This becomes more important as trailer weight approaches the maximum trailer weight rating.
Weight Distribution
A weight-distributing hitch helps transfer some trailer tongue weight to the front axle. This improves steering response and helps reduce rear suspension squat. It is useful for heavy trailers, especially when tongue weight is near the upper limit.
Transmission Cooling
A transmission cooler or heavy-duty cooling system helps manage heat while towing. Towing increases load on the powertrain, especially during low-speed driving, long grades, or hot weather. Proper cooling supports transmission life and more stable towing performance.
Tire Load Ratings
Tire load ratings must match the vehicle payload capacity and trailer tongue weight. Under-rated tires can overheat and reduce stability. Tire pressure should also be checked before towing.
Trailer Sway Control
Trailer sway control helps reduce side-to-side trailer movement during crosswinds or lane changes. This system improves towing stability and helps maintain control. Hitch setup, trailer balance, and tire condition also affect sway behavior.
| Specification | Normal Towing Setup | Heavy Towing Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class | Class III or IV | Class IV |
| Trailer Brakes | Recommended | Required |
| Weight Distribution | Usually not required | Recommended |
| Cooling System | Standard | Heavy-duty cooling preferred |
| Tongue Weight Control | Moderate importance | High importance |
FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Dodge Durango R/T?
The maximum towing capacity of a Dodge Durango R/T is 8,700 lbs when properly equipped. That figure applies to models with the correct tow package and configuration. Many standard versions are rated lower.
How much can a Dodge Durango R/T tow with a tow package?
A Dodge Durango R/T with a tow package can tow between 7,200 lbs and 8,700 lbs depending on model year, drivetrain, and package type. The highest ratings require the Tow N Go Package on newer models. Standard tow package equipment also affects hitch class and trailer brake support.
Does 4WD or AWD affect Dodge Durango R/T towing capacity?
Yes, drivetrain can affect Dodge Durango R/T towing capacity. In many later model years, rear-wheel drive models tow slightly more than all-wheel drive versions. Earlier years had the same towing rating across both drivetrains.
What trailer weight is safe for a Dodge Durango R/T?
A safe trailer weight depends on the vehicle’s exact towing specifications, payload capacity, and loaded tongue weight. Staying below the rated maximum trailer weight is necessary, but cargo and passenger weight must also be considered. Many owners leave extra margin instead of towing at the exact limit.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Dodge Durango R/T?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for every trailer. It becomes useful when towing heavier loads with higher tongue weight. This setup helps improve balance, steering, and braking stability.
Does the Dodge Durango R/T need trailer brakes?
Trailer brakes are strongly recommended for heavier trailers. They improve stopping performance and help reduce load on the vehicle’s braking system. A trailer brake controller is part of the preferred towing equipment setup.
Conclusion
The Dodge Durango R/T towing capacity ranges from 7,200 lbs to 8,700 lbs depending on model year and equipment. Drivetrain, tow package, hitch class, payload capacity, and GCWR all affect the final towing limit. Tow N Go equipped models provide the highest maximum trailer weight rating in newer years.
Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual before towing heavy loads.
