The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine with variable valve technology is an all-new design featuring double overhead camshafts, variable displacement oil pump and high-flow intake and exhaust ports, dual independent cam phasing. That all translates into an exceptionally flat torque curve with 90 percent of the peak value available from 1,600 to 6,400 rpm. Outcome: smooth, responsive driving experience. The engine delivers a 12 - 15 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the previous V6 engine.

The 5.7L V8 engine features advanced fuel-saving technology that automatically deactivates four cylinders when eight are not needed. When cruising at highway speeds between 40 and 60 mph, the multi-displacement system uses advanced computer technology and electronic throttle control to transform the engine seamlessly from V8 power to an efficient four-cylinder power plant in 0.04 seconds.

The 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 5.7L HEMI® V8 features state-of-the-art variable valve timing on the exhaust valves to improve fuel economy^{2011_durango_fuel_eco_2} and refinement, and maximize performance. By closing the intake valve later, the engine can recycle energy to push the crank instead of rejecting it as heat.

The variable valve timing improves fuel economy on two fronts. First, it reduces the engine's pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the crankshaft instead of being rejected out of the exhaust port as heat. Essentially, variable valve timing improves engine breathing, which improves efficiency and power.

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