2006 Dodge Durango: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

An antiskid system, eight-passenger seating, and a power liftgate are new Durango features for 2006. This truck-type SUV lends its design to the 2007 Chrysler Aspen. It comes in SXT, SLT, and Limited models. It's available with three engines: a 210-hp V6, a 230-hp V8, and Chrysler's 335-hp Hemi V8 that saves fuel by deactivating four cylinders during cruising. All have automatic transmission. All models are available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; V8 AWD models are available with low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Traction control is no longer offered, but an antiskid system is now standard on Limited and optional on other models. Curtain side airbags that cover all three seating rows are available. A power liftgate is newly standard on Limited, optional on SLT. SXTs seat five, SLTs seven. For '06, Limited trades a two-passenger 3rd-row seat for a three-passenger, increasing capacity to eight from seven. Leather upholstery and heated front seats are standard on Limited, optional on SLT. Among available features: a navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, DVD entertainment, and a wireless cell phone link.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.

New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.