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2009 Dodge Durango Full Review
Date Published: 6/20/08
Also in the 2009 Dodge Durango Review:
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Dodge Durango Full Review
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2009 Dodge Durango
Sneak Peek
The 2009 Dodge Durango gets a new gas/electric Hybrid model. Durango is a traditional truck-type SUV and offers seating for five, seven, or eight. It comes in SXT, SLT, Adventurer, and Limited trims. Conventional gasoline Durango models are available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Optional on AWD versions is a low-range gear for off-roading. Hybrid models are AWD only and are not offered with low-range gearing. Maximum towing capacity is 8950 lb for conventional models and 6000 lb for the Hybrid. Rear-drive SXT and SLT versions have a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine. All others, except hybrids, have a 303-hp 4.7-liter V8. Optional on all but the SXT is a 335-hp 5.7-liter version of Chrysler's Hemi V8. Hybrids have a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that pairs with a battery powered electric motor for 385 hp. It can run on either gas or electric power or both, depending on driving needs. No plug-in charging is needed. Both Hemi V8s have Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, which shuts down four cylinders when cruising in order to save fuel. Available safety features include ABS, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. A navigation system, rear obstacle detection, power-adjustable pedals, and a wireless cell phone link are standard on Hybrid and available on other Durangos. DVD entertainment is offered on all.
News
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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2009 Dodge Durango Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger and cargo room | Acceleration (V6) |
| Trailer-towing capability | Fuel economy |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
We have not yet tested a Durango with the 4.7-liter V8 or a Hybrid model. The V6 is a weakling in this heavy wagon. It feels as slow as Dodge's 12.2-sec 0-60 mph estimate. The conventional Hemi V8 delivers plenty of power at all speeds, though Dodge's estimate of 8.2 sec 0-60 mph is not outstanding in this class.
| 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 4.7-liter V8 or a Hybrid model. The V6 is a weakling in this heavy wagon. It feels as slow as Dodge's 12.2-sec 0-60 mph estimate. The conventional Hemi V8 delivers plenty of power at all speeds, though Dodge's estimate of 8.2 sec 0-60 mph is not outstanding in this class.
Fuel Economy
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 Hemis.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 3 | 2 | 4.1 |
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 Hemis.
Ride Quality
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.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
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
Steering feels direct but overassisted, and Durango reacts slowly in quick changes of direction. Body lean is moderate but noticeable. Fine brake pedal feel.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.8 |
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
The engines are quiet at idle and growl under acceleration. No noticeable tire whine. Wind rush starts at 60 mph, but never drowns out normal conversation.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
The engines are quiet at idle and growl under acceleration. No noticeable tire whine. Wind rush starts at 60 mph, but never drowns out normal conversation.
Controls
The gauges are easy to read. All controls are within arm's reach and 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.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
The gauges are easy to read. All controls are within arm's reach and 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
Cabin materials are neither fancy nor exceptionally cheap looking. Despite some lightweight plastic pieces, most everything appears durable and looks appropriate for the price.
| 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)
Head- 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/exit requires a large step-in, but becomes easier with available running boards.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Head- 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/exit requires a large step-in, but becomes easier with available running boards.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Second row has good head-, leg-, and toe room. 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.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
Second row has good head-, leg-, and toe room. 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
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.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 10 | 10 | 8.7 |
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
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.
| 2WD SXT, 3.7 V6 | AWD Limited, 5.7 V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 6 | 6.1 |
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 | 65.5 |
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 56 | |
| Average Score | 65 | |
| High Score | 76 |
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2009 Dodge Durango Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 09/14/2007
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
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
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2009 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 | ohv V8/electric | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.7 /225 | 4.7 /287 | 5.7 /345 | 5.7 /345 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 210 @ 5200 | 303 @ 5650 | 335 @ 5200 | 385 @ 5400 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 235 @ 4000 | 330 @ 3950 | 370 @ 4200 | 380 @ 4200 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Optional | Optional |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||||
| 4-speed automatic | 14/19 | --/-- | --/-- | --/-- |
| 5-speed automatic | --/-- | 13/17 | 13/18 | --/-- |
| CVT automatic | --/-- | --/-- | --/-- | 19/20 |
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 |
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
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%.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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Also in the 2009 Dodge Durango Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Dodge Durango Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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