It’s something you don’t see every day. On the one hand, it’s a three-row SUV that can haul the entire family and all its stuff. On the other hand, it’s an aggressively dressed powerhouse of a vehicle that gets 710 hp and can tow up to 8,700 pounds. What are we talking about? The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat. A supercharged supreme SUV.

The 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

Dodge may not have as many vehicles in its lineup as it has in years past. The automaker is focusing on what works for them. One thing they’ve had great success with? Its showy, high-performing Hellcat-line of vehicles.

But do we need a family SUV that gets 710 hp?

The 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat features a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that has a top speed of 180 mph and gets 645 lb-ft of torque under that intimidating exterior. It has all-wheel drive standard and can tow up to 8,700 pounds. It’s the basic family SUV on steroids and it can either give the kids a fun ride or a good scare.

When it comes to appearance, all 2021 Dodge Durangos feature a new front fascia similar to that of the Charger. The grille has been updated and the LED headlights are a little slimmer. The Hellcat models don’t have official fog lights in an effort to keep everything cool as possible.

Both the Durango SRT Hellcat and its Durango SRT 392 sibling offers a two-piece chin splitter. There’s also a spoiler in the back that, according to MotorTrend, gives 140 pounds of downforce at the max speed of 180 mph. The opening at the lower part of the front fascia pulls air into the Hellcat’s intercooler. 

What people are saying about the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

A lively discussion followed leaked looks at the new 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat when they hit the internet. One Reddit user said that it was the vehicle to have when “you want to humiliate the PTA president at the stoplight on the way to the soccer game.” They aren’t wrong.

To some, the facelift the Durango got was incidental. They are mostly interested in the new supercharged engine. Another user said they were happy to finally see a Challenger-style interior in another vehicle. Others were impressed with the look of the Durango SRT Hellcat and what it promised to do. They were, however, hesitant about what they expect to be a high sticker price.

Others weighing in on the conversation explain they find the tendency to make vehicles sporty and high-powered to make sales is “stupid.”

Too much?

Is the new 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat cool enough in both looks and capabilities to put any doubts to rest? Time will tell. The limited availability of the new SUV will likely help.

The Durango SRT Hellcat will only be offered for the 2021 model year. While it’s not a limited edition, there will only be a six-month production run beginning in early 2021. According to MotorTrend, the number of Durango SRT Hellcats produced could be less than 2,000 units. Tim Kuniskis, head of Alfa Romeo and head of passenger cars for FCA in North America explained that he didn’t know what the final production numbers will eventually be. 

Why will it only be available for one model year? The reason is that the Durango SRT Hellcat can’t pass the new emissions rules that go into effect in 2022. The good news? This doesn’t affect the entire Hellcat lineup. Just the Durango SRT Hellcat for now.

The recent technology and aggressive styling of the new SUV will no doubt draw attention. But the main appeal will be what’s under the hood. Those who want a 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat need to act quickly to get this outrageous new SUV before it’s gone.