The Durango has been redesigned for 2004, with a more aggressive look, a more powerful line of engines and enough charisma to give the competition many sleepless nights.
The new Durango is seven inches longer and three inches wider than the outgoing 2003 model. This increase in exterior dimensions translates into more head, hip, leg and shoulder room for the Durango's passengers. As with the original, the new Durango features seating for seven and plenty of room for cargo. Dodge says that with the third-row seat folded, the Durango offers more cargo space behind the second-row seat than the Explorer and Tahoe.
Power for the base Durango is supplied by a sturdy 3.7-liter V6 that makes 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft. of torque. Optional engines include the 4.7-liter magnum V8 good for 230 horsepower and the mighty 5.7-liter HEMI V8 that turns out a tire-ripping 330 horsepower and 370 lb-ft. of torque. The Durango is powered by its rear wheels and offers the option of on-demand four-wheel-drive. V8 powered Durangos also come with a tow/haul transmission setting that reduces gear searching by remaining in a lower gear for better pulling power.
Power is only part of the Durango story; style is the rest. If this SUV doesn't grab your attention than you need to have your pulse taken ASAP. The look is pure Dodge and very un-SUV in its proportions. Though the Durango is longer this year, the short front and rear overhangs make it look deceptively compact and rugged. The huge tires and wheels are showcased by a set of oversized wheel flares built into the sheetmetal and enormous flush-mounted headlights flank the giant cross-hair grille.
Inside, a new dash features a massive central speedometer surrounded by smaller secondary white-faced gauges. The center stack that holds the radio and HVAC controls drops down to meet a large console that effectively separates the driver from his or her passenger. Improved seating provides better support for the lower back and thighs and optional adjustable pedals help drivers of all sizes find the perfect driving perch. On the safety front, the Durango comes standard with four-wheel anti-lock brakes and dual-stage front airbags with occupant sensing system. For the first time, the Durango offers the option of a side-curtain airbag that covers all three rows.
Creature comforts abound in the new Durango and include such available toys as a 384-watt Infinity sound system, rear-seat DVD player, rear-seat climate controls, automatic temperature control (Limited only), power sunroof, leather seats and much more.
