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1-888-696-6197
1600 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Dodge Durango
MSRP*
$39,295.00
Fuel Economy
City
13.0
L/100K
13.0
L/100K
Highway
8.9
L/100K
8.9
L/100K
Vehicle Dimensions (mm)
5075
1925
3043
1801
2013 Dodge Durango SXT AWD |
|
|---|---|
| Fuel City | 13.0L/100K |
| Fuel Highway | 8.9L/100K |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Max Power | 216 KW 290 HP |
| Body Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Number of Doors | 5 |
| Engine | 3.6l |
| Drive Wheels | 4X4 |
2008 Dodge Durango SLT Plus Road Test
The Durango has been a staple in the large SUV market since a little after
2004, having thoroughly grown up physically and in ability. No longer just the SUV version of the midsize Dakota pickup truck, the Durango bridges the gap between midsize SUVs, like the Ford Explorer, and authentic full-sizers like the Tahoe and Expedition. As an in-between vehicle, it’s been geared to deliver the best of most worlds - full-size capability in a package that’s 7/8ths the size.
In 2007, this current-generation Durango received its first major refresh. The arrival of the update was fairly quiet, falling at around the same time that Chrysler launched its version of the SUV, dubbed Aspen. Gone were the intriguing fenders, inspired by 2001’s Powerbox concept, the squished headlamps and the slightly odd bulging grille. I happen to think that the revised Durango looks a whole lot better, if not a bit more conventional, and what’s more is that unlike some mid-life updates this one integrates the original design seamlessly into the newer look. And while I generally find that large, chrome-plated wheels aren’t a necessity when it comes to full-size SUVs, this particular Durango looks quite smashing sitting on its chromed five-spoke wheels.
On the inside, the changes are much less noticeable. The interior - dash, door panels, seats - is predominantly identical, and is clearly truck-derived and finished more for durability than luxury. You won’t find the suede-inserts, wood-grain and soft-touch plastics as in the Aspen, but everything is clearly laid out if not a bit ‘90s in design. The big changes for this year include the addition of Chrysler’s excellent MyGig infotainment system to the options list that includes traffic assistance for the navigation, as well as a reverse camera and iPod audio integration. Dodge also upped the second row seat to a standard 40/20/40 layout, perfect for those who need to carry four people plus long objects (like snowboards). Alternatively the second row can be had with a pair of captain’s chairs divided by a floor-mounted console. Despite being a bit smaller than its rivals, the Durango can also be configured as a true eight-seater, with a flat-folding 40/60 split bench. Dodge also added pinpoint LED lighting throughout the interior this year, for a higher end feel.
When it comes to big SUVs, there is really no replacement for power, which is why, for the longest time, I’ve always vouched for the 5.7-litre Hemi as the engine to have if considering a Durango. Besides enabling the heavy ute to tow its impressive max load of 8,750 lbs (3,969 kg), it’s powerful, smooth, and all things considered, isn’t terrible on fuel thanks to MDS cylinder deactivation. MDS works, by the way. I spent a great deal of time cruising on the highway, as well as slowly around town, and was surprised at how much of this time the Durango only operated on four cylinders. I do have to wonder - what’s stopping Chrysler from offering an on-off switch for MDS, allowing owners to keep the vehicle running on four cylinders under slightly higher loads, such as traversing a grade?
Hemi aside there have been some changes to the Durango’s powertrain lineup, namely the introduction of a new entry-level engine. The new 4.7-litre SOHC V8, as seen in the Dakota, base Ram 1500, Grand Cherokee, Commander and others, has been upgraded significantly with twin-spark
plugs per cylinder, a higher compression ratio and internals with improved flow. It also runs on E85 as standard. Output takes a massive hike from 235 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque to 303 and 330 respectively, which isn’t too far off the pace of the Hemi that makes 335 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. Here in Canada, all Durangos are four- or all-wheel drive, whereas four-wheel traction is an option in the US. In the case of the 4.7 it’s a full-time electronically controlled AWD setup, whereas the 5.7's torque connects through a transfer case with a low-range, more suitable for 4x4ing. Still, the Durango wasn’t designed for extreme off-roading, although its low-range is handy for max pulling power, such as lugging a boat up a slippery ramp.
As I mentioned at the beginning of this review, not a whole lot has changed under the skin since the second-generation Durango arrived on the scene back in 2004. It is the smallest of the full-size SUVs, but nevertheless remains very much a full-size SUV in the way that it drives, feeling somewhat truck-like at the helm. Mind you, due in part to its smaller frame and heavily assisted power steering, the Durango is very easy to pilot
around town or on the highway, and is even fairly relaxing thanks to good visibility around the front pillars and massive side-view mirrors that deliver a panoramic view of traffic on the left and right. Provided you view it as more of a truck than a big crossover, the Durango makes a respectable family vehicle; after all, it's a tool designed to haul a lot of people and their things simultaneously. What's more, the Durango’s fully boxed frame and durable drivetrain give it a very respectable tow rating, something no crossover can do. And its five-speed automatic comes with a tow and haul mode, although it could do with a bit of extra control. The GMT900 trucks offer manual gear select on the gearshift column, while the Durango's Japanese rivals feature floor-mounted shifters with manumatic-style gates.
Competitors in mind, there are quite a few good choices in the large SUV segment, from the GMT900 SUVs, Tahoe, Yukon and their larger siblings, Suburban and Yukon XL, to the Expedition, not to mention Nissan's recently updated Armada and Toyota's all-new Sequoia. Dodge offers a lot of metal for the money, however, with prices starting at just a little over $36,500 for the base SLT, and $38,670 for the leather-clad SLT Plus. For this sort of money you’re not likely to find anything more than midsize SUVs and
crossovers from Dodge's competitors, which puts the ball in the Durango’s court if you need something larger that’s adept at towing and hauling heavy loads but need to keep more cash in your pocket for filling the tank. A nicely dressed SLT Plus with the Hemi engine, power tailgate, MyGig infotainment system is available for less than $40,000, and surely, if you ask nicely, they might even cut you an even sweeter deal.
As demand for large SUVs has tapered and the Chrysler Aspen has been added to the lineup, Dodge has slimmed down its Durango model offerings. Gone is the mid-grade Adventurer as well as the top of the line Limited, and with the latter some of the associated luxuries like digital three-zone climate control and auto-dimming side-view mirror. The upcoming Hemi Hybrid model, available this fall, should help the Durango appeal to more buyers. It will vastly improve fuel economy without compromising interior space or performance, including towing. I drove an Aspen Hemi Hybrid prototype last year and came away impressed, given the seamless transition between gasoline and hybrid modes, as well as the SUV's overall refinement. And while the price of gas isn’t going to get cheaper anytime soon, the estimated 40-percent city fuel economy gains that the Hybrid is expected to achieve could put it at the top of the Durango’s sales charts.
Specifications (Dodge Durango):
 |
| With its new sheetmetal, the Durango looks better adjusted and smarter, too. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
In 2007, this current-generation Durango received its first major refresh. The arrival of the update was fairly quiet, falling at around the same time that Chrysler launched its version of the SUV, dubbed Aspen. Gone were the intriguing fenders, inspired by 2001’s Powerbox concept, the squished headlamps and the slightly odd bulging grille. I happen to think that the revised Durango looks a whole lot better, if not a bit more conventional, and what’s more is that unlike some mid-life updates this one integrates the original design seamlessly into the newer look. And while I generally find that large, chrome-plated wheels aren’t a necessity when it comes to full-size SUVs, this particular Durango looks quite smashing sitting on its chromed five-spoke wheels.
 |
| Not much is different in here. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
On the inside, the changes are much less noticeable. The interior - dash, door panels, seats - is predominantly identical, and is clearly truck-derived and finished more for durability than luxury. You won’t find the suede-inserts, wood-grain and soft-touch plastics as in the Aspen, but everything is clearly laid out if not a bit ‘90s in design. The big changes for this year include the addition of Chrysler’s excellent MyGig infotainment system to the options list that includes traffic assistance for the navigation, as well as a reverse camera and iPod audio integration. Dodge also upped the second row seat to a standard 40/20/40 layout, perfect for those who need to carry four people plus long objects (like snowboards). Alternatively the second row can be had with a pair of captain’s chairs divided by a floor-mounted console. Despite being a bit smaller than its rivals, the Durango can also be configured as a true eight-seater, with a flat-folding 40/60 split bench. Dodge also added pinpoint LED lighting throughout the interior this year, for a higher end feel.
 |
| Second row seat is now split 40/20/40, making the Durango even more practical. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
When it comes to big SUVs, there is really no replacement for power, which is why, for the longest time, I’ve always vouched for the 5.7-litre Hemi as the engine to have if considering a Durango. Besides enabling the heavy ute to tow its impressive max load of 8,750 lbs (3,969 kg), it’s powerful, smooth, and all things considered, isn’t terrible on fuel thanks to MDS cylinder deactivation. MDS works, by the way. I spent a great deal of time cruising on the highway, as well as slowly around town, and was surprised at how much of this time the Durango only operated on four cylinders. I do have to wonder - what’s stopping Chrysler from offering an on-off switch for MDS, allowing owners to keep the vehicle running on four cylinders under slightly higher loads, such as traversing a grade?
Hemi aside there have been some changes to the Durango’s powertrain lineup, namely the introduction of a new entry-level engine. The new 4.7-litre SOHC V8, as seen in the Dakota, base Ram 1500, Grand Cherokee, Commander and others, has been upgraded significantly with twin-spark
 |
| Four wheel drive with low-range is handy for pulling boats out of the water. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
As I mentioned at the beginning of this review, not a whole lot has changed under the skin since the second-generation Durango arrived on the scene back in 2004. It is the smallest of the full-size SUVs, but nevertheless remains very much a full-size SUV in the way that it drives, feeling somewhat truck-like at the helm. Mind you, due in part to its smaller frame and heavily assisted power steering, the Durango is very easy to pilot
 |
| Power operated tailgate is now available; rubber mats cover the floor and the seatbacks preventing things from getting too dirty. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
Competitors in mind, there are quite a few good choices in the large SUV segment, from the GMT900 SUVs, Tahoe, Yukon and their larger siblings, Suburban and Yukon XL, to the Expedition, not to mention Nissan's recently updated Armada and Toyota's all-new Sequoia. Dodge offers a lot of metal for the money, however, with prices starting at just a little over $36,500 for the base SLT, and $38,670 for the leather-clad SLT Plus. For this sort of money you’re not likely to find anything more than midsize SUVs and
 |
| If you need to tow a lot, but don't want to spend a lot, the Durango is a viable solution. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
As demand for large SUVs has tapered and the Chrysler Aspen has been added to the lineup, Dodge has slimmed down its Durango model offerings. Gone is the mid-grade Adventurer as well as the top of the line Limited, and with the latter some of the associated luxuries like digital three-zone climate control and auto-dimming side-view mirror. The upcoming Hemi Hybrid model, available this fall, should help the Durango appeal to more buyers. It will vastly improve fuel economy without compromising interior space or performance, including towing. I drove an Aspen Hemi Hybrid prototype last year and came away impressed, given the seamless transition between gasoline and hybrid modes, as well as the SUV's overall refinement. And while the price of gas isn’t going to get cheaper anytime soon, the estimated 40-percent city fuel economy gains that the Hybrid is expected to achieve could put it at the top of the Durango’s sales charts.
Specifications (Dodge Durango):
- Price Range (Dodge Durango MSRP): $36,545 - $54,470
- Price as Tested (MSRP): $46,970
- Body Type: 5-door SUV
- Layout: front engine, 4WD
- Engine: 335 hp, 370 lb-ft of torque, 5.7L, 16-valve OHV HEMI V8 (std. 302 hp, 329 lb-ft of torque, 4.7L, 16-valve SOHC V8)
- Transmission: 5-spd auto
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, BA
- Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 5,100 / 1,930 / 1,867 / 3,028 mm (200.8 / 76.0 / 73.5 / 119.2 in)
- Curb Weight: 2,322 kg (5,120 lbs)
- Tires: 265/50R20 (std. 265/60R18)
- Cargo Volume (behind 3rd row / 2nd row / 1st row): 569 / 1,937 / 2,900 L (20.1 / 68.4 / 102.4 cu-ft)
- Fuel Economy (city / hwy): 16.4 / 11.0 L/100 km
- Observed Fuel Economy: 14.5 L/100 km
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive; 60/100,000 powertrain
- Competitors: Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Trailblazer / Tahoe, Chrysler Aspen, Ford Explorer / Expedition, GMC Yukon / Envoy, Nissan Pathfinder / Armada, Toyota 4Runner / Sequoia
- Web Site: www.dodge.ca
Interior
- Seating: 7 passengers
- Audio system with AM/FM radio, satellite
radio, CD player (reads MP3 format) - 12V in cargo area and front
- Front and rear reading lights
- Driver and passenger vanity mirror
- Service interval indicator
- External temperature
- Floor covering: carpet in passenger
compartment and carpet in load area - Driver and passenger 3rd row windows
- Seat upholstery: cloth
- Front driver seat : bucket, front
passenger seat : bucket - Third row seats: power, split-folding
split bench with seating for two fold
flat to floor - Power steering
- Ventilation system with cabin filter
- Air conditioning with automatic control,
three-zone - Rear side windows: wind-up on driver
side and passenger side - Tinted glass
- Compass
- Fuel consumption(L/100km) : city= 13.0 ;
highway= 8.9 ; combined= 11.2 ; - Audio Connectivity: AUX jack and USB
- 6 speakers
- Remote audio controls: steering wheel
mounted - Cruise control
- Cargo area light
- Main dashboard display
- Tachometer
- Trip computer: includes avg fuel econ
and fuel range - Carpet floor mats
- Load restraint: net
- Front seat center armrest
- Rear seats: split-folding split bench
with seating for three - Multi-function steering wheel ; includes
height adjustment and telescopic
adjustment - Cupholders in front row and rear seats
- Passenger seat and rear seats secondary
ventilation controls - Auto-dimming rear view mirror
- Hinge rear window with defroster and
intermittent wiper - Front power windows with 2 express, rear
power windows - Dashboard and floor console
- Privacy glass on rear and rear side
Exterior
- Fixed mast antenna
- Front fog lights
- Driver and passenger door mirror:
heated, body colour, power adjustable - Spare wheel: spacesaver with steel rim
- Roof spoiler
- Pearl paint
- Windshield wipers with variable
intermittent wipe - Doors: driver, rear driver, passenger
and rear passenger : front hinged
Mechanical
- Remote control trunk/hatch release
- 3.060:1 axle ratio
- Emissions data: CO2: 5,352 kg/yr
- Fuel system: multi-point injection
- Independent front wishbone suspension
with stabilizer bar and coil springs,
independent rear multi-link suspension
with coil springs - Hill holder
- Full and part-time 4WD drive with
automatic selection - Electronic traction control (via ABS &
engine management) - Block heater
- Fuel: unleaded ( 87 octane)
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic w/manual
mode ; incl. shifter on floor - Powertrain type : combustion
Safety
- 4 disc brakes (2 ventilated)
- Painted front and rear bumpers
- Headlights: halogen with complex surface
lens - Daytime running lights
- Remote keyless power locks
- Front side airbags
- Height adjustable front seat belts with
pre-tensioners for driver and passenger - Third row seat belts for driver and
passenger - Brake assist system
- Smart key:
- ABS
- Immobilizer
- Headlight control with dusk sensor
- All three rows protected by curtain
airbags - Intelligent driver and passenger front
airbag - 2 active height adjustable head
restraints for front seats, 3 height
adjustable head restraints for rear
seats, 2 height adjustable head
restraints for 3rd row seats - Rear seat belts for driver, rear seat
belts for passenger, 3-point rear seat
belts for center - Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
stability control - Low tire pressure monitor
- Roll stability control
Dimensions
- External dimensions: overall length
(mm): 5,075, overall width (mm): 1,925,
overall height (mm): 1,801, ground
clearance (mm): 207, wheelbase (mm):
3,043, front track (mm): 1,623, rear
track (mm): 1,627 and curb to curb
turning circle (mm): 11,300 - Cargo capacity(in litres): rear seat
down: 2,391, all seats in place: 487 and
third row seats removed: 1,350 - Fuel tank: 93 litre capacity
- Power: 290 hp @ 6,400 rpm; 260 ft lb of
torque @ 4,800 rpm - Front and rear alloy wheels: 18"x 8.0"
- Internal dimensions: front headroom
(mm): 1,013, rear headroom (mm): 1,011,
front hip room (mm): 1,449, rear hip
room (mm): 1,423, front leg room (mm):
1,025, rear leg room (mm): 981, front
shoulder room (mm): 1,486 and rear
shoulder room (mm): 1,481 - Engine: 3.6L Pentastar V 6 DOHC with VVT
- Front and rear all-terrain tires
265/60/T - Weights: gross vehicle weight (kg):
2,948, published curb weight (kg):
2,229, gross trailer weight braked (kg):
2,812 and payload allowance (kg): 719
Misc
- Charges: Air Conditioning Tax $ 100.00
- 4X4 specifics: approach angle (degrees):
16.3 and departure angle (degrees): 21.4 - Bluetooth ; includes phone connection
and includes music streaming
- Delivery/freight charge: $ 1,695.00
- Uconnect voice activating system;
includes radio and phone
(GWA) Power Sunroof
Power glass sunroof ; includes tilting function, sliding function, sunshade and one-touch opening
(J003) Standard Metallic Paint
Metallic paint
(J005) Standard Gloss Paint
Gloss paint
(CSC) Cargo Compartment Cover
Cargo area cover
(AHX) Trailer Tow Group IV
Trailer towing preparation includes: trailer hitch Heavy duty alternator Automatic rear suspension levelling Spare wheel: fullsize with steel rim Heavy duty engine cooling system
(MET) Metallic Paint
Metallic paint
(PER) Pearl Paint
Pearl paint
(AJY) Popular Equipment Group
Internal Hard Drive : 28.00 GB storage Entertainment display screen located in front ; includes DVD MP3 player Audio system with digital media card Audio Connectivity: USB ParkView rear radar & camera parking distance sensors DVD Luxury trim: leather on shifter Leather steering wheel Multi-function display screen 6.5
(RHB) Media Center 430N CD/DVD/MP3/HDD/NAV
Memory card/stick navigation system: 3D and voice info with touch screen controls ; includes 6.5-in. colour screen Voice activating system; includes naviagtion system Internal Hard Drive : 28.00 GB storage Audio Connectivity: AUX jack and USB Multi-function display screen 6.5 Entertainment display screen located in front ; includes DVD DVD MP3 player
(ADL) Skid Plate Group
Underbody protection for fuel tank, for transfer case and for engine
(CFU) 2nd Row Fold/Tumble Captain Chairs
Seating: 6 passengers Rear seats: split-folding captain's chairs with seating for two ; also incl. tip/tumble ; details: manual recline and manual fore/aft 2 head restraints for rear seats Deletes: Rear seat belts for center
(CVR) 2nd Row Console w/Armrest & Storage
1 12V in rear Audio Connectivity: USB
(JPR) Power 8-Way Driver Seat
Front driver seat with 6 power adjustments ; details: power height, power lumbar and power tilt
(MW1) Bright Side Roof Rails
Removable roof rails chrome/silver
(WF3) Wheels: 20 x 8 Polished Aluminum
Front and rear alloy wheels: 20"x 8.0" Front and rear all-season tires with black sidewall : 265/50/T
(AEE) Mopar Chrome Appearance Group
Sports pedals Chrome/bright trim exhaust pipe Driver and passenger door mirror: chrome Chrome side tube step
(ALB) Mopar Black/Chrome Appearance Group
Black side tube step Sports pedals
Excludes: [AEE] Mopar Chrome Appearance Group
(AZC) Rallye Appearance Group
Front and rear alloy wheels: 20"x 8.0" Front and rear all-season tires with black sidewall : 265/50/T Body colour grille Exhaust pipe dual Luxury trim: leather on shifter Leather steering wheel Deletes: Roof rails
(AFY) Digital Suede Interior Package
Seat upholstery: upgraded cloth
*Disclaimer: Pricing is subject to change without notice, Installed options may also vary by dealer. Price is plus HST. See dealership for final pricing and availability.
Copyright © 2013 Destination Chrysler
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