2019 Dodge Durango Review
zzdcar' Expert Review
byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test EditorKurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
What's new
No major changes for 2019Newly optional 19-speaker Harman Kardon stereoPart of the third Durango generation introduced for 2011When a car company sells what passes for a family sedan with 707 horsepower, it should come as no surprise that its take on a three-row SUV should be, let's say, a little different from what other manufacturers offer. With its aging platform, the 2019 Dodge Durango remains the stubborn outlier in the ever more car-based three-row SUV segment, offering not just a healthy V6 engine but two stout V8s, class-leading towing capacity and muscle-car styling cues.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Dodge Durango SXT 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota$172/mo for Durango SXT
Durango SXT
SXT 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $30,195 MSRPSXT 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $32,795 MSRPSXT Plus 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $33,195 MSRPSXT Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $35,795 MSRPGT 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $34,645 MSRPGT 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $37,245 MSRPGT Plus 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $38,995 MSRPGT Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $41,595 MSRPCitadel 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $42,995 MSRPCitadel 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $45,595 MSRPR/T 4dr SUV (5.7L 8cyl 8A) - $43,995 MSRPR/T 4dr SUV AWD (5.7L 8cyl 8A) (Most Popular) - $46,595 MSRPAnodized Platinum 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $46,270 MSRPAnodized Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $48,870 MSRPSRT 4dr SUV AWD (6.4L 8cyl 8A) - $62,995 MSRP
vs
$229/mo
Avg. Large SUV
If the Durango looks familiar, that's because you've seen this current generation on the road since the 2011 model year. That's an eternity compared to nearly every rival, but Dodge has kept this three-row crossover relevant. For 2019, there's even more to like. Changes this year include new exterior styling on the GT trim level, a new 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a new integrated trailer brake that is included with the Trailer Tow package.
The Durango's fundamentals — including extraordinary towing capacity, available V8 power, and adult-size space in the third row — are key to its enduring appeal. On the other hand, as one of the most muscular (and oldest) vehicles in its class, the Durango is also one of the heaviest — by a lot. That weight takes a toll on maneuverability, real-world fuel economy, and acceleration with the V6 engine. It also bolsters the argument for choosing one of the exuberant V8 engines, fuel bills notwithstanding.
If you can find a powertrain that suits your needs, whether a V6 or a V8, there's a lot to like. Even at this advanced stage in its life cycle, the Durango remains one of the most capable and well-rounded three-row crossovers you can buy.
zzdcar' Expert Rating
As many SUVs strive to be more like cars, the 2019 Dodge Durango keeps it decidedly old-school, with powerful V8 engines and an impressive towing capacity. A roomy interior keeps things practical, new styling for 2019 keeps things fresh, and the 475-horsepower SRT version keeps things fast.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Dodge Durango Limited (3.6L V6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Durango has received some revisions to appearance packages and standard equipment at various trim levels. Our 2015 Durango tester's Limited trim is similar to today's GT. Otherwise, our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Durango.
Driving
The 3.6-liter V6 can seem a bit taxed in such a large vehicle, but a smart transmission helps get the most out of it both at our test track and in the real world. The Durango's other dynamic attributes, for better and worse, are more trucklike relative to its crossover competitors.
Acceleration
It reaches 60 mph in 8.1 seconds with the base V6 — a slow time compared to the segment's best, but then the V8 engines pretty much blow everything else away. The eight-speed automatic is eager to downshift when needed and holds gears when climbing and descending hills.
Braking
The pedal feel is moderate to soft with a long-travel stroke. It stopped from 60 mph in 125 feet, which is also average for the segment. Multiple panic stops displayed fade, odor and a reduction in ABS effectiveness.
Steering
Truckish and slow, the Durango's steering requires lots of cranking and doesn't self-center readily. Still, it's appropriately precise and weighted in typical driving and quick in tight U-turn situations. It has comfortable slack at freeway speeds.
Handling
When driving around turns, the Durango feels even bigger than it is due to slow steering and minimal tire grip. It's a large, lumbering SUV. Those upsizing from a more sprightly car may want to look elsewhere.
Drivability
The slow steering may put off those accustomed to driving cars, but it's an improvement for those downsizing from old-school truck SUVs. The transmission can hunt for gears in typical flat-ground driving and it's overly eager at times to reach top gear.
Off-road
The ground clearance of 8.1 inches is good for a family-oriented SUV. A dual-range transfer case is standard on the R/T and optional on the Citadel.
Comfort
Families who spend a lot of time in the car would be wise to consider the road-trip-ready Durango. We were impressed during highway testing, which showed a quiet, comfortable vehicle with supportive seats.
Seat comfort
The driver's seat is firm and supportive, with ample adjustment. The optional second-row captain's chairs recline but don't slide, yet this didn't seem to negatively affect comfort. The third row provides average comfort for the segment.
Ride comfort
The ride is composed, planted and comfortable, even in the Durango on big optional wheels. Those who appreciate the large, heavy feel of a truck will feel right at home, albeit without the uncouth jiggling and occasionally harsh ride motions.
Noise & vibration
The Durango is louder at full throttle than some competitors, but it's quieter when cruising, with nicely quelled road and wind noise. The cabin is a peaceful place to enjoy a family road trip.
Interior
Some competitors may offer seat belts for eight, but that's really a token provision. In reality, the Durango presents more useful passenger space, a less confining view out, and an easier means of getting inside. Dodge's user-friendly tech interface is another benefit.
Ease of use
As always, Dodge's touchscreens, especially the 8.4-inch one, are benchmarks for user-friendliness with large virtual buttons, logical menus and helpful secondary physical controls. Everything is easy to reach.
Getting in/getting out
The rear doors that open nearly 90 degrees are better than most. The flip-and-fold second row makes access to the third row also better than most, although there is the typical high step-up versus a minivan.
Roominess
The Durango is one of the most spacious three-row SUVs. Adults can fit with comfort in all outboard seating positions, which is rare. Third-row head- and legroom are especially good. Only two seat belts in the third row mean it can fit seven people max.
Visibility
There's good visibility straight back that's aided by large mirrors and optional blind-spot warning. But the rear headrest and a thick rear roof pillar hamper reversing. The rearview camera helps, but it lacks clarity. Forward visibility is average.
Quality
The materials quality is average with expected soft-touch surfaces of pleasant texture. Construction is nothing special. It doesn't look or feel as high-end as the related Jeep Grand Cherokee, but it's also nothing to be ashamed of.
Utility
With maximum cargo space that matches that of all but the largest SUVs, a useful fold-flat front passenger seat, and the highest tow ratings among its rivals, the Durango is exceptionally well-rounded when it comes to overall utility.
Technology
A choice of two large touchscreen displays, fast software processing, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available accident avoidance tech features make the Durango one of the most tech-connected crossovers in any class.
Audio & navigation
Navigation comes standard on the Citadel trim level and is optional on GT. The 8.4-inch touchscreen is a worthwhile upgrade. The powerful 19-speaker Harman Kardon system is a good option for premium sound.
Smartphone integration
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on the Durango.
Driver aids
The Technology Group, which is only available as an option and not available on base SXT trims, includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist.
Which Durango does zzdcar recommend?
The R/T doesn't come cheap, but it's the specification that really lets the Durango flex its muscles. With standard V8 power, a 7,400-pound towing capacity and a sporty stance, the R/T is family-friendly transportation with attitude. Go with any number of the interesting paint colors, such as F8 Green, In-Violet or Reactor Blue to shake up the school run.
2019 Dodge Durango models
The 2019 Dodge Durango is a three-row crossover SUV available in five trim levels: SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T and SRT.
All Durango models except the SRT are rear-wheel-drive and offer optional all-wheel drive. The SRT is only available with all-wheel drive. Seven-passenger seating is standard in the SXT, the GT and the R/T, while second-row captain's chairs (reducing capacity to six) are standard on the Citadel and the SRT and optional on all others. If you need to prioritize cargo over passengers, you can order the base SXT with just two rows of seats, or you can order the Lightweight Performance package on the SRT that also removes the third row. The other trims are three-row only.
The base SXT comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine (295 hp, 260 pound-feet of torque) matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, a load-leveling rear suspension, foglights, heated mirrors, a rearview camera, keyless ignition and entry, three-zone automatic climate control, a 60/40-split folding and reclining second-row seat, a 50/50-split folding third-row seat with power-folding headrests (or alternatively, an option to remove the third-row seat), cloth upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Technology features include Bluetooth, two USB ports, a 7-inch touchscreen interface, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and a six-speaker sound system.
The GT adds 20-inch wheels, a power liftgate, rear parking sensors, remote ignition, an eight-way power driver's seat, a 115-volt power outlet, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and satellite radio. For 2019 the GT now shares the LED foglights and aggressive front fascia found on the R/T, along with a new hood that's similar to the one on the SRT.
Going with the Citadel gets you xenon headlights, power-folding mirrors, automatic high beams, automatic wipers, upgraded brakes, front parking sensors, roof-rail crossbars, a sunroof, a cargo cover, leather and vinyl upholstery, additional leather trim, heated front- and second-row seats, a six-way power passenger seat, a power-adjustable steering wheel with heating, driver-seat memory settings, an 8.4-inch touchscreen interface, a navigation system, and a nine-speaker Alpine audio system with a subwoofer and HD radio.
An optional Anodized Platinum appearance package adds upgraded leather upholstery with silver accent stitching and special interior trim. There's also an optional 825-watt, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, which is also available as an option on the R/T and the SRT.
The R/T moves into high-performance realms with the 5.7-liter V8 engine (360 hp, 390 lb-ft) as standard, an upgraded steering system, upgraded brakes, a lowered ride height, a performance hood design, LED foglights, leather and simulated-suede upholstery, and a nine-speaker Alpine audio system. The Citadel's standard roof rails and sunroof are optional. The 5.7-liter V8 is also optional for the Citadel.
Some of the higher trims' standard features are also offered on lower trims as options. A Technology Group package for the Citadel and the R/T adds adaptive cruise control, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning, a forward collision warning system with automatic braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist. You can also add full leather upholstery bundled with ventilated front seats to the R/T and the Citadel.
Optional on the GT and the R/T is a Brass Monkey appearance package that adds a gloss-black grille, black headlight bezels, 20-inch bronze-painted wheels, and extra body-colored trim. An optional Blacktop appearance package (also for the GT and the R/T) is similar and fits the Durango with 20-inch black-painted wheels and a variety of black-out exterior trim items. The Blacktop package also bumps engine power up to 295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Other options include black running boards and bright pedals (Mopar Running Board package); a second-row console with an armrest and storage (includes an in-console 12-volt power outlet and a USB charge port); a dual-screen rear entertainment system (with Blu-ray compatibility); and a trailer-tow package, which now includes trailer brake control.
Finally, the SRT trim level tops it off with a 6.4-liter V8 engine (475 hp, 470 lb-ft), performance-tuned steering, an adaptive high-performance suspension, electronically controlled limited-slip differential, upgrade Brembo brakes, SRT Performance Pages (various configurable performance parameters), auto-leveling headlights, upgraded leather and simulated-suede upholstery, and ventilated front seats.
SRT options include a sunroof, full leather upholstery, the rear entertainment system, the SRT Interior Appearance Group (which includes carbon-fiber accents and a soft-touch headliner), the Technology Group and the Lightweight Performance package, which removes the third-row seats.
Options on every Durango include a blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning system and a CD player.
2019 Durango Highlights
Type: SUVSRTSUVTrim: SXTSXT PlusGTGT PlusCitadelR/TAnodized PlatinumSRTSXT
Base MSRP | $30,195 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $172/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 43.3 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
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