In the Harry Potter series, the shapeshifting Boggarts has the power to take the shape of one’s innermost fear. If they could instead assume the form of your fearsome desire of a muscle car, chances are many of us would be looking at a Dodge Charger or a Challenger. Now, go ahead and add a Patronus charm to the equation and lo! we have the Dodge Durango! While Dodge mostly stands for raw power, Durango is all about a large family that loves classic luxuries, whose favourite traditions include lighting up bonfires and revving up eight-cylinder powerhouses.
After being around for 27 years and selling 2 million vehicles, Dodge Durango is still in its third generation and after a significant refresh in 2021 seems to remain thus at least till 2028! This simply speaks volumes for its durability of purpose and desirability of performance. The name Durango is fittingly derived from a US City in Colorado, surrounded by mountains. My test drive vehicle was the Dodge Durango with the badge R/T – Road & Track of course!
Before we go into the review, a quick brief on the origins of Dodge…
Dodge was founded in 1914 as an automotive parts supplier to companies like Ford, before hitting success with their Model 30 that spelt reliability in those days before the brand moved on to build a reputation for its macho and muscle. Today, even as it moves into electric concepts like Charger Daytona SRT, performance is held supreme.
Cabin comforts
Classic is the aura that the Dodge Durango cabin exudes. From the coarse-grained leather of the seats to the adult-rated space in the third row, and the still usable boot space, the Durango cabin is family-friendly. Music is served by an 825W Harmon Kardon music system with 19 speakers and subwoofers. The only thing you would perhaps wish for a size upgrade is the sunroof – but that again is a fad to many!
Cabin storage
With its purposeful performance hood, Dodge Durango is indeed the beast that hides a soft corner for the family. With more than 50 seat configurations, the cabin provides permutations of everyday practicality – with fold-and-tumble second row seats and split-folding second and third row seats. Cargo space maxes out at 2410L.
Cabin Tech
2025 Dodge Durango has a glossy 10.1-inch central touchscreen – rather matter-of-fact and mildly modern, which works on the latest version of U-connect infotainment interface of the Stellantis group. It lets you wirelessly sync with your smartphone through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You can also maintain up to five unique profiles and charge your phone wirelessly or using the A-type or C-type port.
Tech that celebrates driving enthusiasts assumes centre-stage in the Durango. ‘Performance pages’ roll out page after page of notes from drag races, records of G-force and much more.
The Drive
The Durango casts a lasting impression with its signature V8 engine that generates 360 hp served through an 8-speed transmission and available paddle shifters. Dipping into the HEMI V8 feels like drinking from a calm and plentiful stream of power. What would please the family even more would be the suspension setting that keeps the ride almost as comfortable while cutting across rugged mud tracks, as on a paved road.
Once you taste the power, you will have no problem justifying the fuel economy – 6.7 kmpl on my drives is exceptional for the engine size and was achieved rather effortlessly.
Available engines:
3.6L Pentastar 6 – 294 hp and 353 Nm of torque
5.7L HEMI V8 – 360 hp and 529 Nm (R/T model that I test drove)
6.2L HEMI V8 Supercharged – 710 hp and 875 Nm (Hellcat SRT model)
Safety and driver assistance
Dodge Durango R/T comes with a comprehensive list of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems – from Blind Spot Monitor and Advanced Cruise Control with distance setting. They detect threats, alert the driver and often step in to ward off collisions. While the camera isn’t the multi-view gadget offered on top trims, it is clear, wide and useful.
The essential Dodge Durango R/T
For those who are in love with the macho presence of the Dodge Charger but have the heart to place their family first, Dodge Durango is the SUV for you. The prices start at a reasonable AED 199,900, with R/T Premium AWD available for AED 219,900.
