Dodge Durango

Safety

Standard in many newer Durangos from 2013 onwards are features such as blind spot monitoring, to warn of any obstacle out of the driver’s view, and rear cross-traffic alerts, notifying you of movement beside the car when reversing. Backup cameras are available to make it easier to reverse this sizeable vehicle. Depending on the model year, additional safety options for recent Dodge Durangos include:

• Lane-keeping assist to notify you when you’re about to leave your lane and automated emergency braking (as of 2018)
• Adaptive cruise control, to keep a safe distance from the cars ahead of you (new on the R/T as of 2013)
• Forward collision warning, which alerts you and applies brakes to reduce the probability of an accident (comes with the Citadel trim as of 2013)  
• Auto-levelling headlamps, which adjust for inclines

Dodge Durangos from 2008 offer full-time all-wheel drive, along with many front and rear airbags for added stability and protection.

Interior

While Dodge’s advertising for this model says that they were more concerned with performance than cupholders, the Durango interior is still designed with comfort in mind. In newer models, the second row is slightly higher than the first, creating stadium seating for the second and third rows. A heated steering wheel along with a power rear liftgate and auto-dimming mirror can be added to later model Durangos, but you can enjoy heated front seats on the Leather Interior Group package on models as old as 2009.

Technology

In addition to the newest models being compatible with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integrated, the Dodge Durango boasts the UConnect system for voice-activated tasks, such as:

• Voice-guided navigation
• Creating calendar appointments, setting timers and replying to emails and messages

Bluetooth and cabled connectivity make it easy to access devices in the Durango. A 7-inch, easy-to-use infotainment screen is available as an option to keep rear passengers entertained.

Space

The Durango has three rows of seating but is configured in a way that allows for almost 50 variations of space for passengers and cargo. Second-row captain’s style seats make for more comfortable road trips, but those headrests reduce visibility for the driver. The third row of seating is surprisingly spacious and appropriate not only for small children, though taller adults may want to bypass it, except for short drives.

Comfort

With its rear-wheel drive and sport suspension, the Dodge Durango is a swift and comfortable ride. Its longer body means increased room for passengers and cargo, but it’s bulky to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Standard 4x4 drive means that the Durango is sure on its feet, safely handling a variety of weather and road conditions. This SUV is more versatile and athletic with the larger V8 HEMI engine—optional from 2004 models and onwards—but its fuel efficiency declines with that option. Depending on whether you are moving people or towing boats, campers or large trailers, the smaller V6 engine might have enough muscle for you.