2008 Dodge Durango Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

The 2008 Dodge Durango gets a more powerful V8 engine. Durango is a traditional truck-type SUV and offers seating for five, seven, or eight. It comes in SXT, SLT, Adventurer, and Limited trims. All have an automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. A low-range gear for off-roading is available on AWD models. Rear-drive SXT and SLT versions have a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine. All others, including AWD models, have a new 303-hp 4.7-liter V8. This engine replaces a 235-hp 4.7 V8. Optional on all but the SXT is a 335-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System cylinder deactivation. Maximum towing capacity is 8950 lb. Available safety features include ABS, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Available features include a navigation system, rear obstacle detection, power-adjustable pedals, DVD entertainment, and a wireless cell phone link.

Competition

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Veracruz, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Highlander.

News

Sources say the announced hybrid-power Durango will now debut sometime in 2008, perhaps as an '09 model. The first such vehicle from Chrysler Group, it employs a gasoline/electric powertrain developed by DaimlerChrysler with General Motors, and Germany's BMW. GM plans to offer this so-called two-mode system on full-size Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs by late 2007. The hybrid Durango uses a 5.7 Hemi V8 assisted by two small electric motors instead of one larger unit. Drive is to all four wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission. Dodge claims up to 25 percent better fuel economy vs. a regular Hemi Durango, plus more-responsive power delivery than "traditional" hybrids.

Sources say Durango V6 engines may be replaced by model-year 2010 with new designs boasting greater fuel efficiency. A new 5.6-liter diesel V8 is also rumored for that timeframe. Expected to produce some 260 hp, it's being developed as another joint effort of Chrysler Group and engine specialist Cummins, which has long supplied a straight-six turbodiesel for Dodge's big Ram pickups.

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2008 Dodge Durango Road Test

Pros	Cons

Passenger and cargo room	Acceleration (V6)

Trailer-towing capability	Fuel economy

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
1	5	5.5

We have not yet tested a Durango with the new 4.7-liter V8. The V6 is a weakling in this heavy wagon. It feels as slow as Dodge's 12.2-second 0-60 mph estimate. The Hemi V8 delivers plenty of power at all speeds, though Dodge's estimate of 8.2 seconds 0-60 mph is not outstanding in this class.

Fuel Economy

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
3	2	3.6

In Consumer Guide testing, AWD Limiteds with the 5.7 V8 averaged 13.9-15.3 mpg. Chrysler says the new 4.7 V8 is more efficient than the previous 4.7 V8, but we're skeptical. V6 and 4.7 V8 Durangos use regular-grade gas. Chrysler recommends 89-octane for the 5.7 V8.

Ride Quality

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
6	6	5.5

Among the nicest-riding traditional SUVs. Durango irons out small imperfections without sloppy side-to-side motions. There's some bouncing over ruts and larger bumps. Any ride penalty with the available 20-inch wheels is minimal.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
4	4	4.4

Steering feels direct but overassisted, and Durango reacts slowly in quick changes of direction. Body lean is moderate but noticeable. Fine brake pedal feel.

Quietness

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
5	5	5.4

The engines are quiet at idle and growl under acceleration. No noticeable tire whine. Wind rush starts at 60 mph, but it never drowns out normal conversation.

Controls

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
7	7	6.3

The gauges are easy to read. All controls are within arm's reach and are very simple to operate. We have not tested a Durango with the available navigation system, but similar units in other Chrysler vehicles are relatively simple to operate.

Details

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
5	5	5.4

Cabin materials are neither fancy nor exceptionally cheap looking. Despite some lightweight plastic pieces, most everything appears durable and looks appropriate for the price.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
7	7	7.1

Headroom and legroom are generous, even beneath the housing of the optional sunroof. It's easy to find a comfortable driving position. Thick front pillars obstruct the view around corners. Large mirrors aid rear vision, and the available rear DVD screen does not block the view astern. Entry and exit require a large step, but become easier with available running boards.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
7	7	6.1

Second row has good headroom, legroom, and foot space. Legroom is tight for taller riders only with the front seats fully back. The 2nd row flips and folds with one hand to allow access to 3rd row. The 3rd row can accommodate adults for short trips.

Cargo Room

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
10	10	8.6

Cargo volume is outstanding. The 2nd- and 3rd-row seats fold to create a nearly flat floor. The one-piece 3rd-row bench seat can only be folded from inside the vehicle, and only after its cushion is moved forward. Available on SLT and standard on Limited is a split 3rd row that can be folded in an easier one-step operation from outside the tailgate area. Liftover is relatively low, and the tailgate opens at floor level for easy loading. Plenty of in-cabin storage, including a deep center console and useful console tray.

Value within Class

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
4	6	5.8

Durango matches some large SUVs for space and towing capacity. Unfortunately, it matches them for poor fuel economy, too. Still, avoid the underpowered V6 in favor of a V8, preferably the 5.7-liter Hemi.

Total Score

2WD SXT, 3.7 V6	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
59	64	63.7

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		53
Average Score		63
High Score		76

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2008 Dodge Durango Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 02/15/2008

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

2WD SXT 4-door wagon	$26,455	$24,315	$800

AWD SXT 4-door wagon	$29,735	$27,289	$800

2WD SLT 4-door wagon	$29,785	$27,279	$800

AWD SLT 4-door wagon	$33,065	$30,253	$800

2WD Adventurer 4-door wagon	$31,710	$28,992	$800

AWD Adventurer 4-door wagon	$33,930	$31,023	$800

2WD Limited 4-door wagon	$34,995	$31,916	$800

AWD Limited 4-door wagon	$37,215	$33,946	$800

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

Model	Rebate & Incentives	Type	Expires

Durango	$3500-$4500 cash back or 0%-5.9% financing.	Customer	07/31/08

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

SXT

Powertrain

3.7-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Dual front airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, 2nd-row split folding seat, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, tachometer, passenger-side visor mirror, variable-intermittent wipers, cargo cover, rear defogger, variable-intermittent rear wiper/washer.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, roof rails.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Full-size spare, 245/70R17 on/off-road tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, flex-fuel 4.7-liter V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.

SLT adds to SXT:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Rear air conditioning and heater, 8-way power driver seat, 2-passenger 3rd-row folding bench seat, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, satellite radio, floormats.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Fog lights.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

265/60R18 on/off-road tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, flex-fuel 4.7-liter V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.

Adventurer adds to SLT:

Powertrain

Flex-fuel 4.7-liter V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Running boards.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

265/65R17 on/off-road white-letter tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.

Limited adds to Adventurer:

Safety

Rear-obstacle-detection system.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather upholstery, heated front seats, 4-way power passenger seat, power-adjustable pedals, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, pedals), 3-passenger 3rd-row split folding seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, Alpine AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, hard drive, rearview camera, driver-side automatic day/night, universal garage door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic day/night rearview mirror, power liftgate, automatic headlights.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Deletes: in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, running boards.

265/60R18 on/off-road tires, chrome alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
22/26D Quick Order Pkg.
SXT	$1,605	$1,380
Rear air conditioning, 2-passenger 3rd-row folding bench seat, bodyside moldings, 265/60R18 on/off-road tires, alloy wheels.

Interior Convenience Group AFH
SLT, Adventurer	$625	$538
Overhead console, vehicle information center, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage door opener, rear map lights, cargo net, automatic headlights. SLT requires power sunroof.

Convenience Group ADC
SLT, Adventurer	$1,700	$1,462
Interior Convenience Group plus rear-obstacle-detection system, power sunroof, power-adjustable pedals, 3-passenger 3rd-row split folding seat, power liftgate.

Technology Group
SXT	$1,030	$886
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, satellite radio, remote engine start, laminated side glass.

Technology Group II
SLT, Adventurer	$2,105	$1,810
SLT/Adventurer w/Convenience Group	$1,850	$1,591
Rear-obstacle-detection system, rearview camera, Alpine sound system, hard drive, leather-wrapped steering w/radio controls, wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night rearview mirror. Replaces in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer w/single-disc CD/MP3 player.

Technology Group III
Limited	$1,435	$1,234
Navigation system, wireless cell phone link, remote engine start, laminated side glass.

Trailer Tow Group AHC
Adventurer, Limited, SLT, SXT	$495	$426
Heavy-duty service group, heavy-duty cooling and battery, 7-wire harness, Class IV hitch receiver. 2WD SXT/SLT require optional engine.

Powertrain
Flex-fuel 4.7-liter V8 engine
2WD SXT/SLT	$985	$847
Requires 5-speed automatic transmission.

5.7-liter V8 Hemi engine w/cylinder deactivation
2WD SLT	$1,780	$1,531
Limited	$795	$684
AWD SLT/Adventurer/Limited	$990	$851
AWD includes 2-speed transfer case. 2WD SLT requires 5-speed automatic transmission.

5-speed automatic transmission
2WD SXT/SLT	$75	$65
Requires V8 engine.

2-speed transfer case
AWD SLT/Adventurer	$195	$168


Special axle ratio
SLT, Adventurer, Limited	$40	$34


Comfort and Convenience Features
DVD entertainment system
SLT, Adventurer, Limited	$1,295	$1,114
SLT, Adventurer require Convenience Group. Limited requires Technology Group III.

Power sunroof
SLT, Adventurer, Limited	$850	$731
SLT, Adventurer require Interior Convenience Group.

Leather upholstery
SLT, Adventurer	$1,175	$1,011
SLT/Adventurer w/Convenience Group	$875	$753
SLT/Adventurer w/Technology Group II	$1,050	$903
SLT/Adventurer w/Convenience and Technology Group II	$750	$645
Includes heated front seats, 3-passenger 3rd-row split folding seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls.

Heated front seats
SLT	$250	$215


Heated 2nd-row bucket seats
SLT, Limited	$950	$817
SLT requires leather upholstery.

Cargo organizer
SXT, SLT, Limited	$200	$172
SXT requires Quick Order Pkg. 22/26D. Std. Adventurer.

Floormats
SXT	$30	$26


Appearance and Miscellaneous
Engine-block heater
Adventurer, Limited, SLT, SXT	$35	$30


Special paint
SLT, Limited	$150	$129


Premium paint
Adventurer, Limited, SLT, SXT	$225	$194


Running boards
SXT, SLT	$405	$348
Limited	$445	$383


Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Skid plates
AWD	$170	$146


265/60R18 on/off-road white-letter tires
SLT, Limited	$135	$116


20-inch chrome alloy wheels
SLT	$1,495	$1,286
Limited	$795	$684
Includes 265/50R20 tires.

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2008 Dodge Durango Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Dodge Durango 4-door wagon

Wheelbase, in.	119.2

Overall Length, in.	200.8

Overall Width, in.	76.0

Overall Height, in.	74.3

Curb Weight, lbs.	4932

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	102.4

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	27.0

Seating Capacity	8

Front Head Room, in.	40.8

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	41.4

Rear Head Room, in.	39.3

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	37.4

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	sohc V6	sohc V8	ohv V8

Size, liters/cu. in.	3.7 /225	4.7 /287	5.7 /345

Horsepower @ rpm.	210 @ 5200	303 @ 5650	335 @ 5200

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	235 @ 4000	330 @ 3950	370 @ 4200

Availability	Standard	Standard	Optional

EPA City / highway mpg

4-speed automatic	14/19	--/--	--/--

5-speed automatic	--/--	13/17	13/18

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	Dodge Durango 4-door wagon

4WD Rollover	4

Front Impact, Driver	5

Front Impact, Passenger	5

Rollover Resistance	3

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	Lifetime/--	--

Bumper-to-bumper	3/36,000	--

Corrosion	5/100,000	--

Free roadside assistance	3/36,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	None/--	--

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: USA

Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

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Also in the 2008 Dodge Durango Review:

Dodge Durango

Dodge Durango Road Test

Dodge Durango Prices & Equipment

Dodge Durango Specs & Safety

Dodge Durango Photos