Dodge Durango

Dodge Durango

Manufacturer	Chrysler Corporation (1998) DaimlerChrysler AG (1998–2007) Chrysler LLC (2007–2009) Chrysler Group LLC (2009-present)
Production	1998–2008 2010–present
Predecessor	Dodge Ramcharger Dodge Journey (Europe)
Successor	Jeep Grand Wagoneer (2014)
Class	Mid-size SUV (1998–2003) Full-size SUV (2004–present)
Body style	4-door SUV
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive

The Dodge Durango is a sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by the Dodge division of Chrysler. The first two generations were very similar in that both were based on the Dodge Dakota, both featured a body-on-frame construction and both were produced at the Newark Assembly plant in Newark, Delaware. However, they did differ in that the first generation was classified as a mid-size SUV while, the second generation was classified as a full-size SUV.

The third generation Durango however is built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, features unibody construction and is currently being assembled at the Jefferson North Assembly plant in Detroit, Michigan. However, it does retain the previous generation's classification as a full-size SUV.

First generation (1998–2003)

First generation

Production	1997–2003
Assembly	Newark, Delaware, United States (Newark Assembly)
Class	Mid-size SUV
Platform	Chrysler DN platform
Engine	3.9 L (238 cu in) Magnum V6 4.7 L (287 cu in) PowerTech V8 5.2 L (318 cu in) Magnum V8 5.9 L (360 cu in) Magnum V8
Transmission	4-speed TorqueFlite automatic (3.9L, 5.2L, & 5.9L engines) 4-speed RFE automatic (2000–2002 w/4.7L engine) 5-speed RFE automatic (2003 w/4.7L engine)
Wheelbase	116.2 in (2,950 mm)
Length	193.5 in (4,910 mm) (2001–2003) 193.3 in (4,910 mm) (1998–2000)
Width	71.5 in (1,820 mm) (1998–2000) 71.3 in (1,810 mm) (2001–2003)
Height	70.0 in (1,780 mm) (2001–2003) 72.9 in (1,850 mm) (1998–2000)
Curb weight	4,500 pounds (2,000 kg) (1998–2000) 4,520 lb (2,050 kg) (2001–2003)
Related	Dodge Dakota

The Durango was marketed as a sturdy truck-based SUV designed to hold up to eight passengers and tow up to 8,950 lb (4,060 kg) when properly equipped. The 4.7 L PowerTech V8 replaced the 5.2 L Magnum V8 engine for 2000; however, the 5.2 was still available in the early 2000 models. In that same year a special AWD performance version called the R/T was released with a 5.9 L Magnum V8. In 1999 and 2000, a limited edition Shelby S.P.360 version was offered that featured a supercharged version of the 5.9 L Magnum V8 engine. Output is 360 hp (270 kW; 360 PS) and 412 lb·ft (559 N·m) of torque. Exterior modifications include unique wheels, tires, suspension, and bumpers. It came standard with Viper blue paint with two racing stripes down the center of the truck. It boasted a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.1 seconds. The top speed was 142 mph (229 km/h).

1998: First model year for Durango, available only in 4WD.

1999: The Durango was made available with 2WD. A 3.9L Magnum V6 engine was available, however few were sold. Minor changes were made for the 2nd year, two new paint colors and notable options available including 6 in × 9 in (150 mm × 230 mm) heated rear view mirrors and steering wheel-mounted radio controls. Leather seats became standard on SLT Plus models, and body-color wheel flares became standard on SLT Plus and 4WD Models.

2000: The new 4.7 L PowerTech V8 engine replaced the 5.2 L Magnum V8 as the standard engine for 4WD models. The 3.9L Magnum V6 engine was no longer available, leaving only V8s for the rest of the production run. The high performance Durango R/T came equipped with a performance tuned 5.9 L Magnum V8 and AWD.

2001: Dodge focused on interior upgrades as Durango's interior trim panels, dash mounted controls, instrument panel, overhead console, and steering wheel were all redesigned. The transfer case selector on 4X4 models changed from a manual lever on the console to a switch on the dash. The instrument cluster was updated and an electronic vehicle information center (EVIC) was incorporated into the overhead console. For improved rear passenger comfort, a dual-zone climate control system was added as standard equipment. Sound systems were improved on all models and now came standard with SX speakers. Other minor changes include door panels, revised seats, aluminium wheels, and minor changes to trim options.

2002: The new SXT version of the Durango was offered as the entry-level trim package. Optional side curtain airbags were added for safety.

2003: Durango featured minor mechanical changes, most notable was the addition of 4-wheel disc brakes.

Trim levels

• 1998–2003 - SLT
• 1998–2003 - SLT PLUS
• 1999–2000 - S.P. 360
• 2000–2003 - Sport
• 2001–2003 - SRT
• 1999–2003 - R/T.

Engines

• 1998–2000 — 5.2 L (318 cu in) Magnum V8, 230 hp (170 kW) & 300 lb-ft (410 N-M) of torque
• 1999 — 3.9 L (238 cu in) Magnum V6, 175 hp (130 kW) & 225 lb·ft (305 N·m) of torque
• 1998–2003 — 5.9 L (360 cu in) Magnum V8, 245 hp (183 kW) & 330 lb·ft (449 N·m) of torque
• 2000–2003 — 5.9 L (360 cu in) Magnum V8, 250 hp (190 kW) & 345 lb·ft (469 N·m) of torque
• 1999–2000 — 5.9 L (360 cu in) Supercharged Magnum V8, 360 hp (270 kW) & 412 lb·ft (559 N·m) of torque
• 2000–2003 — 4.7 L (287 cu in) PowerTech V8, 235 hp (175 kW) & 295 lb·ft (400 N·m) of torque

Second generation (2004–2009)

Second generation

Production	2003–2008
Model years	2004–2009
Assembly	Newark, Delaware, United States (Newark Assembly)
Class	Full-size SUV
Engine	3.7 L (226 cu in) PowerTech V6 4.7 L (287 cu in) PowerTech V8 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi V8
Transmission	4-speed 42RLE automatic 5-speed 545RFE automatic
Wheelbase	119.2 in (3,030 mm)
Length	200.8 in (5,100 mm) Hybrid: 202.1 in (5,130 mm)
Width	76.0 in (1,930 mm)
Height	74.3 in (1,890 mm) Hybrid: 73.6 in (1,870 mm)
Related	Chrysler Aspen Dodge Dakota

2004–2006

The second generation Durango was first shown as a concept dubbed Dodge Durango R/T concept at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show. It debuted shortly before the companion Dakota. Like the Dakota, it has much in common with the large Dodge Ram pickup, including a fully boxed frame. It is 7 in (180 mm) longer, 2 in (51 mm) wider, and 3 in (76 mm) taller than the previous model. It also offered a third row bench with three seats, giving it an eight-seat capacity. The design took its styling primarily from the Dodge Powerbox concept, which was itself based on the 1999 Dodge Power Wagon Concept, and the 2003 Durango R/T concept.

Debuting for 2004 was a new coil-spring rear suspension and a solid rear axle. A Watt linkage system is fitted to the rear axle, centering the axle and reducing rear-end skate over rough surfaces, and allowing a lower and wider cargo floor.

2007–2009

2007–2009 Dodge Durango

The 2007 model was reworked to halt a sales decline, debuting at the Dallas Auto Show in April 2006. It featured a redesigned grille, hood, headlamps, fenders and wheels. New features included electronic stability control, a tire pressure monitoring system, rear park assist, and a one-touch turn signal. The 2007 model also featured a reworked floor and an electrical system in preparation for the 2009 hybrid version.^{[citation needed]}

In 2007, Chrysler introduced its own version of the Durango, called the Chrysler Aspen.

In October 2008, as demand for full-size SUVs fell off, Chrysler announced that the shutdown of the Newark Assembly facility, which produced the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen, would be moved up to the end of 2008, effectively ending production of the Durango and Durango Hybrid for the 2009 model year.

Hybrid

Chrysler started to build the Dodge Durango Hybrid 2009 in fall 2008, featuring the 340 hp (250 kW) 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi engine with MDS as well as the new Two-Mode Hybrid system developed with General Motors and BMW. The manufacturer claimed an almost 25% gain in overall fuel economy and an almost 40% gain in the city. EPA testing on the Hybrid Durango with the Hemi V8 engine indicates fuel mileage to be about 20 miles per US gallon (12 L/100 km; 24 mpg_-imp) (city) and 22 mpg_-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg_-imp) (highway) for 2009 model. The normal (non-hybrid) Durango with the 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi and 4WD gets 13 mpg_-US (18 L/100 km; 16 mpg_-imp) (city) and 19 mpg_-US (12 L/100 km; 23 mpg_-imp) (highway).

Chrysler want to position the hybrids as a less expensive alternative to GM's hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, which use a similar hybrid system.

The 2009 Dodge Durango Hybrid had a starting MSRP of $45,340. Production of the hybrid models (including the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid as well) began on August 22, 2008. The hybrid became available at dealerships in early October, the same month Chrysler announced the termination of its production. It was one of the shortest-lived model from a major automaker in modern times. Chrysler received approximately 3,000 pre-orders fro both models from dealers. It was uncertain if the automaker filled those orders. By early November 2008, 400 of the hybrid SUVs, including Chrysler Aspen, had already been built.

• SXT 2004–2009
• SLT 2004–2009
• SLT Plus 2004–2009
• Night Runner 2005–2007
• Limited 2004–2009
• Adventurer 2005–2008

Engines

• 2004–2009 - 3.7 L (226 cu in) PowerTech V6, 210 hp (160 kW) at 5200 rpm and 235 lb·ft (319 N·m) at 4000 rpm
• 2004–2007 - 4.7 L (287 cu in) PowerTech V8, 235 hp (175 kW) at 4500 rpm and 300 lb·ft (407 N·m) at 3600 rpm
• 2004–2009 - 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi V8, 335 hp (250 kW) at 5200 rpm and 370 lb·ft (502 N·m) at 4200 rpm (MDS equipped for 2006+ 5.7 L engines for improved fuel mileage)
• 2008–2009 - 4.7 L (287 cu in) PowerTech V8, 303 hp (226 kW) at 5,650 rpm and 330 lb·ft (447 N·m) at 3,950 rpm

• 

  2009 Durango SLT

• 

  2009 Durango Limited

Third generation (2011–present)

Third generation

Production	2010–present
Model years	2011–present
Assembly	Detroit, Michigan, United States (Jefferson North Assembly)
Class	Full-size SUV
Engine	3.6 L Pentastar V6 5.7 L Hemi V8
Transmission	5-speed W5A580 automatic 5-speed 545RFE automatic 6-speed 65RFE automatic 8-speed 845RE automatic(2014-)
Wheelbase	119.9 in (3,045 mm)
Length	199.8 in (5,075 mm)
Width	75.8 in (1,925 mm)
Height	70.9 in (1,801 mm)
Related	Mercedes-Benz M-Class Mercedes-Benz R-Class Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2)

On August 16, 2010, Dodge released an Internet site and teaser photos of the third generation of Dodge Durango. The new Durango is built alongside of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the Jefferson Ave. Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan. The new Durango shares not only the assembly line with the Grand Cherokee, but also the running gear, powertrains, and chassis parts. The new Durango features two engines. The base engine is a new 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 290 hp (220 kW; 290 PS) and 260 lb·ft (350 N·m) of torque at 4,800 rpm; 90% of peak torque is available from 1,600 to 6,400 rpm. The Pentastar V6 is attached to the Mercedes W5A580 five-speed automatic, with Chrysler's controls and the driver-interactive control. The 5.7 L Hemi VVT V8 returns with 360 hp (270 kW; 360 PS) and 390 lb·ft (530 N·m) of torque, which features the 545RFE 5-speed automatic. The HEMI V8 also comes with a "fuel-saver"(cylinder deactivation) mode. This feature is primarily used when the vehicle is cruising at constant speeds on level ground.

The wheelbase of the new Durango is longer than that of the Grand Cherokee. It features three rows of seating compared to the Grand Cherokee's two rows.

The 2011 Dodge Durango entered production on December 14, 2010, alongside the second generation Charger in the 2011 vehicle lineup. It went on sale for general dealership availability in mid-January 2011.

2014 Dodge Durango

Dodge unveiled a revised Durango at the 2013 New York Auto Show. Outside, it will feature sportier-looking lines, as well as a new design trim similar to Rallye, with blackened plastic bumper and outline. It also features a new LED taillight cluster closely resembling the style of the 2011 and newer Dodge Charger. Inside, it will feature a new steering wheel.

Engines

Model	Engine	Displacement	Power @ rpm	Torque @ rpm	Years	Note
Express	3.6 V6 Pentastar	3,604 cc (219.9 cu in)	290 hp (220 kW; 290 PS) @ 6400 rpm	350 N·m (260 lb·ft) @4800 rpm	2011–
Crew					2011–	option 5.7 V8 HEMI
CrewLux					2011–	option 5.7 V8 HEMI
Citadel					2011–	option 5.7 V8 HEMI
Heat					2011–
R/T	5.7 V8 HEMI	5,654 cc (345.0 cu in)	360 hp (270 kW; 360 PS) @ 5150 rpm	530 N·m (390 lb·ft) @4250 rpm	2011–	MDS

Total American sales

Calendar Year	US Sales
1997	20,263
1998	156,923
1999	189,840
2000	173,567
2001	130,799
2002	106,925
2003	108,010
2004	137,148
2005	115,439
2006	70,606
2008	41,420
2009	3,521
2010	572
2011	51,697
2012	42,589

Recall

On August 16, 2012, Chrysler recalled 1,661 2013-model Dodge Durango sport utility vehicles in the United States and Canada because some airbags may not deploy in an accident. The recall affects 1,449 of the seven-passenger versions of the SUVs in the United States and 212 in Canada and other markets.

External links

• Official site