Overview & Reviews

Though the Dodge Durango has long been classified as a midsize sport-utility vehicle, its designers actually made it a half-size larger in order to fill the niche between the midsize and full-size SUV classes. As such, the Durango is often just the right size for those folks who need more interior room and towing capability than a typical midsize SUV can deliver, while not being as bulky and hard to park as a full-sizer.

The first two generations of the Durango were truck-based SUVs in the traditional style. A used model from this period should be a fair choice, though in the later part of the 2000s, the Durango was outclassed by newer crossover SUV competitors. The third-generation Durango, however, has joined the crossover club. It still offers V8 power and stout towing capabilities, but is a much nicer and well-rounded vehicle overall.

Current Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango is a large crossover SUV that seats seven passengers, though buyers can opt for second-row captain's chairs that lower capacity to six. Four trim levels are offered: well-equipped SXT, midlevel Limited, sporty R/T and plush Citadel.

Both V6 and V8 power are offered. The 3.6-liter V6 has respectable muscle -- 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Standard on the R/T and optional on the Limited and Citadel is a 5.7-liter V8 good for 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. All models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. One may also choose among rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive (V6 only) and four-wheel drive with added low-range gearing (V8 only).

In reviews, we've found the Durango confident in terms of handling while still providing a composed and comfortable ride over bumps and ruts. Performance is adequate with the V6, while the V8 provides fairly strong acceleration and added grunt, which would be an asset for those who plan on towing.

Inside, the Durango offers an attractive and upscale design, with class-competitive quality and features, including an 8.4-inch touchscreen display (standard on all but SXT) and an available rear-seat Blu-ray player. The second and third rows offer enough room for most families (the rearmost row can even comfortably sit 6-foot adults), though its seven-passenger max falls one person short of its GM and Toyota rivals. Even so, the Durango comes highly recommended as a choice for a midsize or large crossover SUV.

Used Dodge Durango Models
Revived for 2011 after a one-year hiatus, the current-generation Dodge Durango boasts a full redesign with major improvements in several key areas. A carlike unibody (as opposed to body-on-frame) design notably improved interior space and ride/handling dynamics compared to its forebears. The exterior styling traded the former trucklike look for a more upscale persona, while the cabin followed suit with big improvements in fit and finish. Both the V6 and V8 came with a five-speed automatic. The following year brought a six-speed automatic transmission for V8 models, available second-row captain's chairs and revised trim levels.

Potential buyers should note that these Durangos lack the current version's eight-speed automatic transmission, refreshed styling and updated cabin that offers additional upscale features, including an 8.4-inch touchscreen display and a rear-seat Blu-ray player.

The second-generation Durango was produced from 2004-'09. It was first offered in ST, midgrade SLT and Limited trim levels and it came with one of three engines: a 210-hp V6, a 230-hp 4.7-liter V8 or a 330-hp 5.7-liter V8. These were offered with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with low-range gearing. Alternatively, a single-speed transfer case could be specified on select 4WD models, which essentially meant that you could get a Durango with all-wheel drive. All Durangos came with automatic transmissions as standard -- four speeds for the V6, five for the V8s.

For 2008, the V8 engines were given a welcome nudge in power. The 4.7-liter now produced 303 hp and was more fuel efficient as well, while the Hemi produced 376 horses. In an interesting side story, the Durango Limited HEV hybrid was produced briefly for 2009. It was a so-called "two-mode" hybrid featuring a Hemi V8 (345 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque), two electric motors (87 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque) and a dual-mode transmission with variable ratios.

There were other changes during this Durango's life. Side airbags and refreshed styling arrived for 2006 and the ST trim level was renamed SXT. Two years later, new options such as a back-up camera, a CD/MP3 player, DVD-compatible audio and a MyGIG multimedia infotainment system with a hard drive to store digital music files made the Durango more competitive in an increasingly high-tech market. An Adventurer trim level also debuted, slotting between the SXT and Limited.

In our tests, we found the second-generation Durango handled adequately for a traditional body-on-frame SUV, though car-based crossover SUVs of the time were noticeably superior at providing carlike driving dynamics. Interior quality was a couple notches below what we've come to expect from family-friendly utility vehicles, and its interior space was inferior to bigger truck-based SUVs and large crossovers. Given the Durango's mass, the V8s are preferable for towing and acceleration, but fuel economy was poor no matter what engine you picked. As such, we'd suggest looking at a 2008 or later Durango and even then only if you need a big SUV that can tow and haul a lot of heavy stuff.

Launched in 1998, the first-generation Dodge Durango brought big-rig looks to a segment full of what essentially were tall station wagons. Then, as now, the Durango was larger than the typical midsize SUV but it looked and felt more like a shrunken full-size SUV. It was a sport-ute for the truck person: a vehicle that sat eight, but in pretty much every other way was the antithesis of a minivan.

The Durango was offered with several engine choices, including a wimpy V6, a couple of V8s and even a rare performance-oriented Shelby model with a high-powered V8, a lowered suspension, big wheels and racing stripes. None of the Durango's engines were particularly sophisticated, nor were they very fuel-efficient. Generally, we suggest looking for a used Durango equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 (offered from 2000-'03) or the 5.9-liter V8: The 4.7-liter delivered the best mileage out of the lot, while the 5.9-liter offered the most torque. Despite its rugged underpinnings, the first-gen Dodge Durango had better road manners than most truck-based SUVs of this era thanks to its long wheelbase, wide track and carefully tuned suspension.

If image projection and midsize-plus packaging were the first-generation Durango's strengths, its chief weakness was quality -- both real and perceived. Gaps between body panels were sizable and inconsistent, while interior fit and finish was lacking compared to the competition. Furthermore, ergonomics revealed the utilitarian pickup underneath, and the third-row seat was uncomfortable for all but children. Still, among families who needed a real workhorse, the original Dodge Durango made many friends.

User Reviews:

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  Cracking - 2005 Dodge Durango
  By Sameia - March 16 - 7:53 am

  This SUV is nice but the seat interior is terrible it cracks all up around the seat and seat belt. The bumper seem to be loose and and if in an accident it seem like Itll crack right up!?! There needs to be a recall on the seats. I also have the ABS light on which has been explained to me as a recall?

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  Outstanding! - 2004 Dodge Durango
  By jilesk - March 16 - 2:00 am

  I love my 04 Durango. The ride is smooth and it Looks great.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Dodge Durango
  By durango girl - March 15 - 4:01 pm

  I had a 2002 Durango and swore Id never own one again, but after riding in the 2004 I changed my mind. There is plenty of room and it is a comfortable ride. I didnt get the hemi because I wanted better gas mileage. I havent had any complaints about power and Ive go 19 mpg on the highway. Mileage around town is usually 15 mpg.

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  DO NOT JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER - 2004 Dodge Durango
  By Bob1972 - March 11 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS MY THIRD DURANGO I LEASED A 00 AND 02 BEFORE THIS. I WAS NOT IMPRESSED AT FIRST WITH THE NEW LOOK BUT THE DRIVE IS UNBELIEVEABLE. SO MUCH BETTER THEN THE OLD. I AM VERY HAPPY WITH HAVING MORE ROOM AND A NICE SMOOOOOTH RIDE.

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  Ill buy another one! - 2004 Dodge Durango
  By flower - March 9 - 1:52 am

  When Im ready for another vehicle this one will go to my daughter who at that time will be getting her license. Then Ill buy another newer Durango. Ive loved it since we bought it!

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  Bad Decision - 2005 Dodge Durango
  By Steve in Omaha - March 7 - 1:55 pm

  I bought this truck because it was my best bang for the buck and it was safe for all the kids. It was and it is. The truck has really disappointed though. Cheaply built, I have rust already, chrome door handles are falling apart. Strange dash lights go and off. Cruise control works, then doesnt. And dont do like I did and get one without traction control. This thing fishtails in snow like a 68 Camaro (whether in AWD or 4WD). On top of all that, the resale value seems to be tied to some sort of very heavy financial based anchor. I like the Hemi and it always starts, so theres the positive. I should have spent 8k more and purchased a GM product.

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  Everything the original 98 was and more - 2007 Dodge Durango
  By NotaBuckeye - February 27 - 8:16 pm

  Had the first version in 1998 and kept it for 7 years. The Limited with the Hemi is a great combo. This Durango is loaded except the navigation system and has seating for 8. Use every seat on trips out of state for ice skating competitions. Gas mileage is OK, 20 mpg highway, wish it was a little better. Can travel great distance with a 27 gallon tank. DVD system is great for the kids, helps the miles fly by. Cant imagine owning another SUV especially with the lifetime powertrain warranty. Great vehicle, would recommend it to anyone looking for an SUV with seating for up to 8, great power, decent mpg, and fun to drive.

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  Built Tough as Nails - 2007 Dodge Durango
  By nubnub - February 27 - 5:17 pm

  We bought the Durango especially for its build inside & out. Had no idea it also came with the Flex Fuel. What a great addition for us. I love the power & it has excelent turning radius. I do think the storage however, is very small in the console & the glove box for such a big SUV.

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  Not Good, But Not Bad - 2003 Dodge Durango
  By SBF - February 25 - 2:23 am

  Bought the truck used, had 52k on it. Comfortable ride, good looks, and compliments from a lot of people. Really like this design, the 04 and up look too square and bulky. Interior is designed well. Gas mileage is normal for a 5.9L V8 about 15-17 mpg on the highway. Disappointed that the water pump went out at 59k. Cruise control is acting up too, but nothing I cant fix. With gas prices soaring and seeming to never quit, will consider a crossover for a next SUV, no reason to have a V8 powered SUV, dont do any towing and the its the wifes daily driver.

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  Best SUV ever - 2005 Dodge Durango
  By Best Ever - February 21 - 7:31 pm

  This suv is the best SUV I have ever owned. I have driven a Chevy Suburban, Jeep Liberty and other sedans. Those were good, but this Durango has an extrememly smooth drive, powerful engine (without hemi), comfortable seats and good sound system. I love that the back doors open so wide which makes for easy storage and entrance. I have never had a single problem with this vehicle. A month after I bought the durango, my wife drove it and she bought one! Good to travel in and has great pick up. Also great in the Cleveland snow! Love it!