2018 Dodge Durango
Overview
Most manufacturers tend to focus on the “utility” aspect of SUVs, building big boxes capable of hauling lots of people and stuff but without any charisma. The 2018 Dodge Durango bucks that trend, channeling some of the spirit of Dodge’s muscle cars and—in the form of an available HEMI® V8—some of their substance as well.
The Perfect Ride for...
Drivers who want an SUV with plenty of room for friends and family, not to mention plenty of power to overcome the most challenging obstacles. The Durango is a five-door SUV with seating for five, six, or seven (depending on the model and seating options selected), and it packs a punch under the hood, the biggest punch, really, in a HEMI®. It’s available in four trim levels, priced starting from $29,995.*
In the form of the Durango SRT®, the Durango is the perfect ride for anyone interested in a day at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving, as one comes standard with a purchase of that version.
Drive & Handling
The 2018 Dodge Durango has a more aggressive attitude than most SUVs. Even the base the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 offers plenty of grunt to get this three-row SUV moving. In the Durango, it produces 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Citadel models, and models equipped with the Blacktop trim package, get a horsepower boost (thanks to a freer-breathing dual exhaust), while torque remains the same.
The Durango also offers something virtually no other SUV in its segment does: V8 muscle. The 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 produces 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are coupled to eight-speed automatic transmissions with rotary shift knobs and paddle shifters for manual control. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive optional. Dodge also quotes decent tow ratings for both engines: 6,200 pounds for the V6, and 7,400 pounds for the V8.
EPA-rated fuel economy for the V6 is 21 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway) with rear-wheel drive,** while four-wheel drive models lose 1 mpg in the city and highway categories. The HEMI® V8 is rated at 17 mpg combined (14 mpg city, 22 mpg highway) with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.**
Key Features
Tech by trim level
Even the base Durango SXT comes fairly well equipped, with features like automatic headlights, three-zone automatic climate control, and a full-length floor console. For 2018, a new GT model replaces the previous Limited. In addition to the SXT’s standard equipment, this model features LED daytime running lights, remote start, memory system, heated front and second-row seats, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, SiriusXM® satellite radio, Uconnect® infotainment system with 8.4-inch touchscreen, and more.
In addition to the applicable standard equipment from the SXT and GT models, the Durango Citadel adds a power sunroof, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power tailgate, rain-sensitive front wipers, and upgraded Uconnect® Access infotainment system with 3D navigation, and live streaming Internet radio.
Finally, the R/T is the top Durango model, as well as the sportiest. It’s the only model offered with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V8, and also features a BeatsAudio™ premium audio system, heated steering wheel, and HID headlights.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2018 Dodge Durango includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, active head restraints, and seven airbags. Optional equipment includes a rearview camera, park assist, blind spot monitoring with rear cross path detection, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and advanced brake assist.
Alternative Options
If an unstoppable SUV isn’t what you’re looking for, Dodge offers many other vehicles that are sure to fit your needs. For the gearheads, we recommend the 2018 Dodge Challenger: a classic muscle car redefined. If you need to haul the whole family in comfort and style, check out the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan: a classy and modern people mover.
Gallery
* MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.
** EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
Image: Dodge