Eduard Huma
The Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI signifies the sunset for the legendary HEMI V8 as Dodge SRT ends the production run of its iconic powerplant. This year, Dodge will continue its electrification pivot, and to mark the end of an era and look toward the future, the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI will come with special aesthetics and chassis enhancements. Limited to 2000 units, here is a red-hot SUV that will put the HEMI up to good sendoff.
Table of Contents
A Homeward Cry of Sorrow from the HEMI
Nevertheless, it is the well-known 6.4L HEMI V8 engine residing under the hood of the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI, which has been assembled by hand at Conner Avenue Assembly Plant. Nevertheless, engineers have squeezed a few more ponies for this final model since it now has 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. They also get you used to the HEMI’s roar when you mash the throttle and the tractable torque down low in the rev range. It is an engine that has propelled so many iconic Dodge muscle cars over the years that it really needs better send-off.
In addition to muscle, the AlcHEMI receives unique trims such as orange brake calipers, a black outlet exhaust tip, and brand marks. I particularly appreciate the back quarter panel “SRT 392” emblem recalling the HEMI muscle cars of 60s and 70s. Although some might find the bright orange calipers unsophisticated against the Destroyer Grey of my test car, I think for this HEMI-powered brute, it is perfect.
Refined Dynamite for Four on Wheels
As for the dynamics, Dodge was wise and did not tamper with the outstanding handling characteristics that come with the base Dodge Durango SRT 392 for the AlcHEMI treatment. The performance suspension transmit’s the uneven roads surface irregularities with minimal distortion to the body, ensuring a smooth, stable ride regardless of its speed. Two changes I like to handling are the firmer damping on the rear suspension and the revised programming for the electronic limited slip differential that turns the SUV into the corner with the manners of a much lighter car, despite its 2.5 ton weight.
The Bilstein adaptive dampers mean that the stiffness can vary between different settings, while the AlcHEMI maintains a tense, sporty feel in Sport mode without being uncomfortable in Auto for daily use. Six-piston Brembo brakes are built to deliver substantial, and unyielding stopping power after aggressive use and, indeed, they did not fade. In addition to supplying the AlcHEMI with athletic moves, SRT engineers prudently maintained the Dodge Durango SRT’s welcoming, spacious, and well-ventilated cabin and simple entry and exit for family-oriented travel.
Functionality
Arguably bought mainly for its HEMI V8 send off, the AlcHEMI does not lose the functional aspect inherent with a three-row SUV providing the underpinnings of the Durango. Cabin space is again abundant whether in the second or third row as would be expected in a Dodge, and with the occupants of the two rear seats folded, there is a generous 85 cubic feet of cargo space. Towing capability increases marginally to 8,700 lbs thanks to the integrated trailer brake controller and load-leveling rear shocks.
The AlcHEMI further enhances the commanding presence of Dodge Durango SRT 392 by incorporating several cosmetic modifications to the vehicle’s exterior. For my changes I love the front fascia and hood with cold-air duct integration, one of five Klein blue painted car choices including Vice White, Octane Red, White Knuckle, Redline, and Destroyer Grey like my test car. These colors look like appropriate vivid hues to marking HEMI power. I also like black roof and mirror caps that stand out against the lighter shades. I do have to guess in some cases but I think the AlcHEMI does a good job of adding onto the already aggressive lines of the Durango.
The Last Blast for a Legend
Although 1500 more powerful Charger and Challenger “Last Call” special edition will debut along with the AlcHEMI in Dodge’s chestnut tribute to its HEMI V8 later this year, none can be more appropriate than this Dodge Durango SRT. The one disadvantage is exclusivity, as most enthusiasms will not get an opportunity to own a car of the AlcHEMI series due to a low production rate.
Perhaps Dodge has thrown the kitchen sink at it for its final roll of the dice on the legendary HEMI engine family, a HEMI-tastic AlcHEMI with power boosts, style and suspension modifications that befit a grand farewell. While it is somewhat sorrowful witnessing HEMI power gradually dismantled to history, the AlcHEMI looks more like a burning farewell. This special Durango Durango SRT makes the legend of the HEMI V8 to bid the goodbye in an orange-flavored way. It is doubtful that we will ever see such a potent yet sophisticated pushrod V8 again from any American car maker, making the AlcHEMI an historic tome of sorts marking 62 years of hemi rule by Chrysler.
Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI Media Gallery
