2002 Dodge Durango: Road Test
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2002 Dodge Durango ▼
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- MSRP: $25,400 -$36,920
- Invoice: $23,286 -$33,574
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Our road test for the 2002 Dodge Durango includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Dodge Durango from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Dodge Durango, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Dodge Durango help you decide if a 2002 Dodge Durango is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
The 4.7 V8 is smooth and powerful. Stronger yet is the 5.9, which has a 7550-lb maximum trailer-towing rating that matches that of some full-size SUVs.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 3.8 |
Fuel consumption is big-SUV greedy. Test 4.7-liter 4x4s with the 4-speed automatic averaged only 11.8 mpg; we haven't measured fuel economy with the 5-speed automatic. Test 5.9 SLT averaged just 11.2 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 |
Absorbent and composed even on bumpy roads.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.5 |
Doesn't feel ponderous despite usual SUV body lean and nose plowing in fast turns. Directional stability is good. Front-disc/rear-drum brakes don't stop this large vehicle with confidence. Most rivals have standard 4-wheel ABS, which is optional here.
QUIETNESS
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Quiet as most any midpriced SUV. Road noise is low, wind rush moderate, and engines intrusive only under hard throttle.
CONTROLS
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 6 |
Simple and handy. Quality of materials generally good, although door handles and some interior details have a flimsy, plasticky feel.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.2 |
Generous shoulder, leg, and head room. Step-in height acceptable even on 4x4s. Headrests, thick side pillars impede rearward vision.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Second row is roomy, but seat padding is disappointingly thin. Available 3rd-row seat is comfortable only for children.
CARGO ROOM
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
A week's groceries fit behind 3rd seat. The 2nd- and 3rd-row benches easily fold level with load floor for generous space.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 4.5 |
Durango approaches full-size SUVs for roominess and power but sells at midsize-SUV prices. That merits our Recommended rating.
Total Score
| Sport 4WD, 4.7 V8 | SLT Plus 4WD, 5.9 V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 56 | 56 | 49.5 |
Total Score: 56
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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