Review: 2015 Dodge Durango

There has been an increase in seven-seat SUVs in recent years. Automakers such as Hyundai and Nissan have gotten into the segment with their Santa XL and Rogue, while others have refreshed and updated their existing offerings.

The Dodge Durango stands from the pack though, based solely on looks. It’s as if Dodge decided to take their American muscle heritage and pack it into a three-row SUV. If that was the objective, they’ve certainly succeeded.

First Impressions
This is one big boy. The bulging front-end and grille greets you with a thunderous slap to the back rather than a business-like handshake. It has a strong body and has a classic American design. There aren’t frilly add-ons or ornate design features that glimmer in the sun—just steel and chrome to mesmerize your eyes. It starts at $41,395 and jumps to $54,395 for the Citadel model.

What I Liked
I test drove the R/T AWD—the second highest trim, which starts at $51,395—that had every single bell and whistle included. This model comes standard with a 5.7L Hemi V8 engine capable of 360 HP and paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission—and, surprisingly, it drove like a dream. At first glance I expected a harsher ride from a vehicle so big and bulky, but this set-up delivers a drive experience that’s silky smooth.

The back two rows offer enough legroom for passengers and they fold down flat very easily when you need the cargo room—pull the handle on the back and they flop right down. I was able to fit boxes upon boxes after a lengthy Ikea trip, with room to spare.