Dodge Durango Towing Capacity (All Years 2000-2025)

The Dodge Durango is a mid-size, body-on-frame-derived SUV produced by Chrysler/Stellantis under the Dodge brand. The current third generation has been in production since 2011 and continues through the 2025 model year, while the nameplate originally launched in 1997. This guide covers verified towing specifications by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, payload considerations, and hitch requirements for all major production years.

Towing capacity varies considerably across the Durango lineup depending on engine selection, drivetrain configuration, and installed equipment packages such as the trailer tow group. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits is essential for protecting the engine, transmission, braking systems, and frame from overloading stress.

2025 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2025 Dodge Durango offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) when equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and available factory tow package. The standard 3.6L V6 configuration is rated for up to 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg) when properly equipped. Trailer sway control and Tow/Haul mode are included to maintain stability under load.

2024 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2024 Dodge Durango reaches a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) with the available 6.4L HEMI V8. The 3.6L V6 models are rated at 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg) when properly equipped, while 5.7L V8 AWD models reach 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) and RWD models reach 7,400 lbs (3,357 kg). Engine selection is the primary factor determining the trailer weight limit in this model year.

2023 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2023 Dodge Durango shares its towing specifications with the 2022 and 2024 model years, with a maximum trailer weight rating of 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) using the 6.4L HEMI V8. The V6-equipped trims are rated for 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg) and represent the baseline towing configuration for the lineup. Staying within rated limits improves drivetrain reliability and braking performance under load.

2022 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2022 Dodge Durango carries a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg), which is the highest rating in the current generation. The GVWR for this model year is 7,100 lbs (3,221 kg), and curb weight is approximately 5,378 lbs (2,440 kg). The 6.4L V8 SRT configuration and factory tow package are required to achieve the peak trailer weight limit.

2021 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2021 Dodge Durango introduced the special “Tow N Go” package for select trims equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8, enabling an 8,700 lb (3,946 kg) trailer weight rating. This package included Brembo 6-piston brakes, Bilstein adaptive damping suspension, an electronic limited-slip rear axle, and an integrated trailer brake controller. The 6.2L supercharged Hellcat V8 was offered exclusively for this model year as a limited-run variant.

2020 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2020 Dodge Durango has a maximum towing capacity of 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) for 6.4L SRT-equipped models. V6-equipped models with a light-duty cooling system are rated as low as 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg), while models with the heavy-duty cooling system reach 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg). The 5.7L HEMI V8 configuration ranges from 7,200 to 7,400 lbs (3,266 to 3,357 kg) depending on drivetrain.

2019 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2019 Dodge Durango SRT with the 6.4L HEMI V8 maintains a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg). Non-SRT V8 models range from 7,200 to 7,400 lbs (3,266 to 3,357 kg) based on whether AWD or RWD is selected. V6 models with heavy-duty cooling are rated at 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg), while light-duty cooling reduces the limit to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).

2018 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2018 Dodge Durango SRT with the 6.4L HEMI V8 carries a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg). Non-SRT models are generally listed at a standard maximum of 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) for the 5.7L engine configurations. The GVWR for this model year is 7,100 lbs (3,221 kg) and curb weight is approximately 5,331 lbs (2,418 kg).

2017 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2017 Dodge Durango carries a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and factory tow package. The 3.6L V6 with heavy-duty cooling is rated at up to 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg). The GVWR is 7,100 lbs (3,221 kg) and curb weight is approximately 5,331 lbs (2,418 kg).

2016 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2016 Dodge Durango shares its towing specifications with the 2017 model year, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg). Engine and cooling system selection directly determines which end of the capacity range applies. Models without the heavy-duty cooling system and factory tow group are limited to lower trailer weight ratings.

2015 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2015 Dodge Durango offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 lbs (3,357 kg) with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and RWD configuration. This was the first model year where the Trailer Tow Group IV introduced a heavy-duty cooling system as part of the towing package, significantly affecting the capacity range for V6 models. Light-duty cooling V6 models are rated as low as 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg), a 2,700 lb (1,225 kg) gap from the heavy-duty figure.

2014 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2014 Dodge Durango reaches a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 lbs (3,357 kg) with the 5.7L HEMI V8 in RWD configuration. The AWD 5.7L variant is rated at 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg), representing a 200 lb (91 kg) difference tied to drivetrain choice. V6-equipped trims are rated at a uniform 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg) regardless of drivetrain.

2013 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2013 Dodge Durango is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 lbs (3,357 kg) and shares the same towing specifications as the 2012 and 2011 model years. The V6 configuration is uniformly rated at 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg) for this generation, with no light-duty cooling system distinction prior to 2015. Proper hitch class and tow package installation are needed to achieve the top trailer weight rating.

2012 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2012 Dodge Durango carries a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 lbs (3,357 kg) and uses the same engine and capacity structure as the 2013 model year. The 5.7L HEMI V8 with a Class IV hitch and factory tow group is required to achieve the maximum trailer weight limit. The GVWR for this model year is 7,100 lbs (3,221 kg).

2011 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2011 Dodge Durango is the first model year of the current third generation and is rated for up to 7,400 lbs (3,357 kg) maximum towing capacity. This year used 2WD and 4WD designations rather than RWD and AWD, but drivetrain selection produced no difference in trailer weight ratings for 2011-2013 models. The 3.6L V6 is rated at 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg) across all drivetrain variants.

2009 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2009 Dodge Durango belongs to the second generation of the nameplate and carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,900 lbs (2,676 kg). Three engine options were available, with the 5.7L HEMI V8 producing the highest trailer weight ratings in this generation. The GVWR for this model year is 6,650 lbs (3,016 kg).

2008 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2008 Dodge Durango shares the same towing specifications as the 2007 and 2009 model years, with a maximum trailer weight rating of 5,900 lbs (2,676 kg). The second-generation platform used a body-on-frame construction paired with the Chrysler 8-speed and 4-speed transmissions depending on configuration. Curb weight for this model year is approximately 5,106 lbs (2,316 kg).

2007 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2007 Dodge Durango is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 5,900 lbs (2,676 kg). This model year is part of the second generation, which ran from 2004 through 2009, and uses engine options ranging from the base 3.7L V6 to the 5.7L HEMI V8. Curb weight is approximately 5,133 lbs (2,328 kg) and GVWR is 6,650 lbs (3,016 kg).

2006 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2006 Dodge Durango carries the same maximum towing capacity of 5,900 lbs (2,676 kg) as the adjacent model years in the second generation. The GVWR for 2006 is 6,700 lbs (3,039 kg), slightly above the 2007-2009 figure. Engine selection between the 3.7L V6, 4.7L V8, and 5.7L HEMI V8 affects performance characteristics but the published maximum towing figures are consistent across this generation.

2005 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2005 Dodge Durango is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg), a marginal increase over the 2006-2009 figure. The GVWR is 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) and curb weight is approximately 5,117 lbs (2,321 kg). Three engine configurations were available, with the HEMI V8 providing the most torque for trailer work.

2004 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2004 Dodge Durango carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) and shares specifications with the 2005 model year. The GVWR is 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) for this model year. The 2004 model year marked the beginning of the second generation and was the first Durango to offer the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine option.

2003 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2003 Dodge Durango is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 7,550 lbs (3,424 kg), the highest figure in the first and second generations. The 5.9L V8 engine was available for this model year and contributed to the elevated trailer weight rating. The GVWR for 2003 is 6,400 lbs (2,903 kg).

2000-2001 Dodge Durango Towing Capacity

The 2000 and 2001 Dodge Durango models are rated at a maximum towing capacity of 4,100 lbs (1,860 kg). The GVWR for these model years is 6,400 lbs (2,903 kg), with a curb weight of approximately 4,689 lbs (2,127 kg). Engine options included the 4.7L V8, 5.2L V8, and 5.9L V8 for this first-generation configuration.

Towing Equipment and Setup

Proper towing equipment directly affects trailer control, braking distance, and drivetrain longevity. Equipping the Durango with the correct components for the load is as important as staying within the rated towing capacity.

Tow Package

The factory Trailer Tow Group on the Durango typically includes a Class IV hitch receiver, a 4/7-pin wiring harness, heavy-duty engine oil cooling, rear load-leveling shocks, and a full-size spare tire. Models without the factory tow package are limited to lower Class III capacities and should not be used near the maximum trailer weight limit.

Trailer Brake Controller

Dodge recommends the use of trailer brakes for any load exceeding 1,000 lbs and requires them for loads over 2,000 lbs. An integrated trailer brake controller is available on select Durango trims and as a dealer-installed accessory. The 2021 Tow N Go package includes a factory-integrated trailer brake controller as part of the system.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when tongue weight reaches or exceeds 10 percent of the gross trailer weight. Tongue weight for the Durango at maximum capacity is approximately 870 lbs (395 kg). A weight-distribution system redistributes the tongue load across both axles, improving steering and braking response.

Transmission Cooler

Heavy-duty towing generates additional heat in the transmission fluid. The Durango’s factory Trailer Tow Group IV includes heavy-duty engine oil cooling as a component, reducing the risk of thermal degradation under sustained towing loads. Without this equipment, the transmission is more susceptible to wear at high trailer weights.

Tire Load Ratings

Tires must be rated to support the combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight. Exceeding individual tire load ratings while towing reduces stability and increases blowout risk. Always verify that installed tire specifications align with the Durango’s GVWR and load requirements.

Trailer Sway Control

The 2025 Durango includes electronic trailer sway control as standard equipment. This system detects lateral trailer movement and applies individual wheel braking and throttle reduction to stabilize the trailer. Operating at or below the manufacturer-rated towing limit improves the effectiveness of this system.

Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum towing capacity of a Dodge Durango?

The maximum towing capacity of the Dodge Durango is 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) for current third-generation models (2022-2025) equipped with the 6.4L HEMI V8 or 5.7L HEMI V8 with the Tow N Go package. Earlier second-generation models (2004-2009) are rated at 5,900-5,950 lbs (2,676-2,699 kg) at maximum. The 2003 first-generation model reaches 7,550 lbs (3,424 kg) due to the available 5.9L V8 engine.

How much can a Dodge Durango tow with a tow package?

With the factory Trailer Tow Group IV installed, V6-equipped Durangos (2015-present) reach 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg), while the 5.7L V8 reaches 7,200-7,400 lbs (3,266-3,357 kg) depending on drivetrain. The tow package includes the heavy-duty cooling system, Class IV hitch receiver, wiring harness, and load-leveling rear shocks required for maximum capacity. Without this package, maximum trailer weight limits are significantly reduced.

Does 4WD or AWD affect Dodge Durango towing capacity?

For current-generation Durangos (2014-present), AWD reduces towing capacity by approximately 200 lbs compared to RWD for 5.7L V8 models. For model years 2011-2013, there was no measurable difference between 2WD/4WD towing specifications. V6 models show no drivetrain-based capacity difference in the published data.

What trailer weight is safe for a Dodge Durango?

Operating at no more than 80 percent of the published maximum towing capacity is a widely recommended practice for towing safety. This provides a margin for variable trailer loading, road conditions, and equipment tolerances. For a Durango rated at 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg), a practical safe working load is approximately 6,960 lbs (3,157 kg).

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Dodge Durango?

A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when tongue weight exceeds 10 percent of the gross trailer weight. At the Durango’s maximum trailer rating of 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg), the tongue weight limit is approximately 870 lbs (395 kg). A weight-distribution system is advisable for trailers above 5,000 lbs to maintain level vehicle stance and improve steering response.

What hitch class does the Dodge Durango use?

The Dodge Durango uses a Class III or Class IV trailer hitch depending on the trim and equipment. The factory Trailer Tow Group IV includes a Class IV receiver with a 2-inch opening rated for the maximum trailer weight. Base configurations without the tow package typically use a Class III hitch rated for lighter loads.

Conclusion

The Dodge Durango towing capacity ranges from 4,100 lbs (1,860 kg) in early first-generation models to 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg) in current third-generation models properly equipped with the HEMI V8 and factory tow package. Engine selection, drivetrain, cooling system, and installed towing equipment are the primary variables that determine where a specific vehicle falls within this range. Models equipped with the 5.7L or 6.4L HEMI V8 and the Trailer Tow Group IV consistently produce the highest trailer weight ratings across all applicable model years. The factory Tow/Haul mode, trailer sway control, and integrated brake controller each contribute to safe towing performance within the manufacturer-rated limits. Always verify towing specifications using the vehicle’s owner’s manual or door jamb certification label before towing heavy loads.