2009 Dodge Durango: Road Test
2009 Dodge Durango ▼
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- MSRP: $28,130 - $45,040
- Invoice: $25,806 - $40,911
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Our road test for the 2009 Dodge Durango includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Dodge Durango from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Dodge Durango, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Dodge Durango help you decide if a 2009 Dodge Durango is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 | 5.4 |
The V6 is a weakling in this heavy wagon. It feels as slow as Dodge's 12.2-sec 0-60 mph estimate. No opportunity yet to test the 4.7-liter V8 or the new 356-hp Hemi.
Hybrids can accelerate solely on electric power under gentle throttle up to about 25 mph. It takes a moment to kick on the gas engine after running on electric power, thus resulting in a sensation similar to low-speed throttle lag. Once the gas engine starts, acceleration is good but falls shy of being potent. Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System does not shift between four and eight cylinders as smoothly as GM's Active Fuel Management. The Hybrid's CVT transmission works well to keep the engine in its power band.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a Hybrid averaged an excellent 20.8 mpg. V6, 4.7 V8, and Hybrid Durangos use regular-grade gas. Chrysler recommends 89-octane for the conventional 5.7-liter Hemi. The 4.7 V8 can also run on E85 ethanol-blended fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.4 |
Conventional models are among the nicest-riding traditional SUVs. Those Durangos iron out small imperfections without sloppy side-to-side motions. Less impressive is the Hybrid, whose different suspension tuning causes most bumps to be felt. Bouncing over ruts and larger bumps is more evident in the Hybrid than others. Any ride penalty with the available 20-inch wheels is minimal.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.5 |
Steering feels overassisted, and Durango reacts slowly in quick changes of direction. Body lean is moderate but noticeable. The Hybrid's extra weight takes a toll here, too. It has electric power steering versus the hydraulic setup on other Durangos, but Hybrids still lack road feel. Braking control is fine on all.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
The engines are quiet at idle and growl under acceleration. Hybrids are little different. Wind rush starts at 60 mph, but never drowns out normal conversation.
CONTROLS
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
The gauges are easy to read. All controls are within arm's reach and very simple to operate. The navigation system is standard Chrysler fare, and it's fairly simple to use. It absorbs most audio functions but no climate controls. Hybrids have a power-flow display on the navigation screen that also shows when the engine is in 4-cylinder mode, as well as a real-time fuel economy readout.
DETAILS
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Cabin materials are neither fancy nor exceptionally cheap looking. Despite some lightweight plastic pieces, most everything appears durable and looks appropriate for the price, at least on conventional models. Chrysler could have dressed up the Hybrid's interior a bit more, given that model's price premium.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
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, but the available rear DVD screen blocks the view astern. Entry and exit require a large step-in, but those tasks become easier with the available running boards.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
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 SE V6 | Hybrid | 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 and Hybrid 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 includes a deep center console and useful console tray.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5.8 |
Durango matches some large SUVs for space and towing capacity. Unfortunately, it matches them for poor fuel economy, at least on conventional models. Hybrid models reward with much better mileage at little expense to towing capability, but they lack smooth throttle response and suspension sophistication. Those deficits, combined with its stiffer price tag, make the Hybrid a tough sell. A conventional V8 Durango is the best choice in this lineup.
Total Score
| 2WD SE V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 58 | 63 | 64.6 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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