1998-2003 Dodge Durango: Year-to-Year Changes

1999 Dodge Durango: A 2-wheel-drive Durango joined the original 4WD model for 1999, and a V6 engine became available. Additional standard equipment included cruise control, tilt steering, remote keyless entry, power locks, and power windows. An SLT option package now included leather upholstery, steering-wheel radio controls and (when ordered on the 4WD model) 31-inch wheels and tires. Heated mirrors were new options. A redesigned overhead console gained reading lights. Both 4WD systems had shift-on-the-fly capability. The base 4WD setup could be used only on slippery surfaces. A more costly 4WD option could be left engaged on dry pavement.

2000 Dodge Durango: A completely different engine went into 4-wheel-drive Durangos this year. Borrowed from the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the new 4.7-liter V8 produced 235 horsepower and replaced the former 5.2-liter V8. It also used a different automatic transmission. That 5.2-liter engine remained standard on 2WD Durangos, and vehicles equipped with the SLT option package could have the 5.9-liter, 245-horsepower V8. The V6 engine slipped away. All models gained Chrysler's Enhanced Accident Response system, which lights the interior and unlocks power door locks when airbags deploy. A revised front suspension with rack-and-pinion steering went into this season's 4x4s. The SLT package included body-color exterior trim and fog lamps. The SLT Plus package, for 4WD models, added leather upholstery and 31-inch tires with wheel-arch flares.

2001 Dodge Durango: In 2001, the Durango lost its available 230-horsepower 5.2-liter V8 engine, but gained interior revisions, including a new dashboard with an oil-level indicator, a new center console, and a dashboard control for the 4-wheel-drive system.

2002 Dodge Durango: Dodge's SUV gained optional curtain side airbags and a DVD entertainment system for 2002.

2003 Dodge Durango: Standard 4-wheel disc brakes highlighted changes to the 2003 Durango as Dodge readied a redesigned replacement as a 2004 model.