If a vehicle class has had a bigger popularity boom than the SUV, we’re unaware of it. Hailed by many as the ideal method of family-oriented transportation and used for various applications, the SUV ranges from subcompact and practical, all that way to spacious and workplace-oriented. With a never-ending number of different makes and models to be found on the road, finding one that stands out can almost seem impossible. However, not every SUV is the Dodge Durango.
If we go by appearances and exterior design alone, the Durango might appear to be one of many SUVs that offer three rows of seating and abundant storage. However, the Durango provides a unique edge over the competition that truly sets it apart: a performance that surpasses expectations and delivers unbridled power to anyone who gets behind the wheel.
Speaking of getting behind the wheel, a lush and sophisticated interior rivals many luxury sedans and offers the comfort and amenities many drivers look for and the right style to match the vehicle’s outpouring of substance. Before heading to your local Dodge dealer for that test drive, you might want to consult the information we’re delivering today. We’re presenting this helpful buying guide to help you determine what items on the Durango suit you best. Start your engines; it’s time to put the “power” into purchasing power. For this guide, we’ll focus on the more practical models and not the high-performance SRT trims.
The Right Amount of Power
The most notable attribute of the Durango is its powertrain, which is undoubtedly geared towards high-performance drivers who live for exhilaration and adrenaline. The base engine, which is the farthest thing from basic, we might add, is a V6 engine that pairs with a competent eight-speed automatic transmission. 295 hp is certainly more than enough to provide excitement and drivers with a keen eye for fuel economy, as the EPA estimates the V6 with RWD will achieve 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.
Because Dodge is a company that believes in raising the stakes as far as performance is concerned, drivers who have a desire for horsepower can take advantage of the Durango’s 5.7 HEMI V8. Eight cylinders afford you the thrill of 360 hp and an impressive towing capacity of 8,700 lbs. Testing from Car & Driver Magazine proved the effectiveness of the Durango’s robust powertrain, with the SUV only needing just over six seconds to reach 60 mph. For a three-row SUV, this is more than remarkable.
Features By Trim
As with any vehicle on the marketplace, the features and amenities that provide comfort and enhance the experience on the road tend to vary with trim levels. Depending on your preferences, choosing the proper trim is essential to ensure you get the Dodge Durango that ideally suits you.
Dodge Durango SXT
Base trims of any particular model are sometimes considered Spartan or bare bones. You’ll be pretty happy to know that even the Durango has a wide array of items that come standard on each trim. The SXT features cloth upholstery and three-zone climate control, ensuring each row of seating can have its preference for comfort. Front-row occupants have the advantage of heated seats, and an 8.4-inch infotainment screen is compatible with Apple and Android products and emphasizes intuitiveness and user-friendly design.
Dodge Durango GT
While still relatively affordable, the GT trim increases the luxurious items and available technology, granting drivers an economical option with considerable sophistication. Exterior items adding to the Durango’s aesthetic include 20-inch wheels and chrome-tipped dual exhaust. Drivers who value safety will enjoy the full suite of safety features that are included standard.
Dodge Durango GT Plus
The GT Plus is where the Durango takes its first steps away from practicality and emphasizes luxury more. It receives notable upgrades such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and the Durango’s available 10.1-inch infotainment screen, which includes navigation.
Dodge Durango GT Premium
The GT Premium builds upon the items of the other two GT models, and audiophiles will undoubtedly want to take advantage of the Alpine stereo system with nine speakers. Safety-oriented drivers should also consider the GT Premium, as a host of safety and driving features, including Advanced Brake Assistance, automated high beams, and ParkSense with Stop rear increase oversight and offer an added layer of protection. Wireless phone connectivity is also included for families who enjoy their apps and smartphone usage.
Dodge Durango R/T
The R/T version of the Durango is the ideal compromise between luxury and performance. In addition to building upon the sophisticated offerings of the GT trims, it comes standard with the potent 5.7 HEMI V8, which we discussed earlier. Aside from this notable upgrade, the R/T has specially designed suspension to accentuate the vehicle’s performance.
Dodge Durango R/T Plus
The R/T Plus includes various items perfect for those who spend considerable time on the road or do a fair amount of towing and trailering. It includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Forward Collision Warning with Full-Stop, and a Blind-Spot Monitoring feature with Trailer Detection. Towing features include a hitch, integrated trailer brake controller, and heated and ventilated front seats to ensure maximum comfort during travel.
Dodge Durango R/T Premium
If you’re looking for even more luxury and sophistication, you’ll want to consider the R/T Premium. A 19-speaker stereo system from the experts at Harman Kardon is too tempting for any audiophile to say no to, and an upgraded headliner and a carbon-fiber interior upgrade the SUV’s sophistication.
Dodge Durango Citadel
At last, we’ve reached the top of the mountain and the most decadent version of the Dodge Durango. Sitting on a pair of 20-inch carbon wheels and a chrome trim, the Citadel makes a memorable first impression wherever it happens to go. If the exterior makes you take notice, the interior will completely immerse you in a world of luxury and refinement. Nappa Leather upholstery, heating and ventilation in the front seats, and second-row captain’s chairs make a comfortable ride for drivers and passengers alike. For those who love towing as much as they love sophistication, the available Tow N Go package introduces adaptive suspension damping, an advanced braking system from Brembo, and a limited-slip rear differential.
Final Thoughts on the Pinnacle of SUVs
The Dodge Durango happens when one of the most revered brands, which has always emphasized high performance, adapts this work to a vehicle class that many consider the most practical and versatile in the marketplace. Drivers who favor economy and need something useful for their daily commutes can take advantage of the base and GT trims, which have a V6 powertrain and intuitive infotainment setup that many modern drivers look to take advantage of.
For drivers who favor performance and exhilaration, the Durango’s R/T models exhibit the raw power that could only come from a HEMI V8. To compensate for this considerable level of high performance, the specially designed suspension ensures a comfortable ride, and with the safety and driver assist features that are included, you’ll have the best peace of mind.
Of course, you can certainly have it all with the Citadel. A blend of style, performance, luxury, and technology all rolled into one convenient package; there’s no expense spared. No matter what you’re looking for in an SUV, there’s a perfect Dodge Durango.
