The 2011 Durango is a somewhat jumbo midsize SUV in Dodge’s vastly improved lineup of late. The Durango is completely new for 2011, and highly impressive. In Canada, all Durangos are configured with all-wheel drive, while in the US, rear-wheel-drive is available.
Regardless of which side of the 49th the cheque is written, one can opt for Chrysler’s new Pentastar V6 engine or their powerful HEMI V8 to propel the Durango.
New lines are softer and sleeker
The new Durango is a more sophisticated looking affair over the last generation’s truck-inspired appearance. Its lines flow more freely, imparting an aura of luxury despite the vehicle’s internal ruggedness. Although I appreciated the external improvements Dodge vested upon the Durango, it is the vehicle’s spacious cabin that stole the show.
The highlight of the luxurious cabin in my view is the single-piece dashboard that Dodge has engineered for the Durango. It’s comprised of a joint-free, soft-touch material that binds the instrument panel, duct work and centre stack together into a solid unit, with little room for error.
Assembly standards are first-rate and the content level in my top-of-the-line Citadel tester was as comprehensive as that found in high-end SUVs. Seating up front is delightful and supportive; however, the same isn’t as accurate in describing the second and third rows. Although supportive, I thought that the 2nd row of seats could have been more substantial.
The 3rd row, which seats two and is split 50/50, is of typical size and substance, but more easily accessed than the 3rd row in many similarly sized SUVs. Both the second and third rows fold flat to provide a cavernous cargo bay. When all seats are occupied, the Durango can accommodate seven contented travelers.
Lots to enjoy
Dodge claims to have expended considerable effort in refining the Durango’s ride quality and comfort level, and that effort has paid off handsomely. The Durango delivers a highly absorbent ride, which is more consistent with a premium marque, not something from the Dodge boys. But the pleasures don’t end there.
In addition to spoiling occupants with a decadent ride, the Durango treats them to a quiet, hushed environment that’s largely free of engine, road and wind noises. It’s these attributes that combine with the civilized ride dynamics to deliver a delightful transportation experience.
Could there be room for improvement?
Regardless of which side of the 49th the cheque is written, one can opt for Chrysler’s new Pentastar V6 engine or their powerful HEMI V8 to propel the Durango.
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| The 2011 Durango is a somewhat jumbo midsize SUV in Dodge’s vastly improved lineup of late. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
New lines are softer and sleeker
The new Durango is a more sophisticated looking affair over the last generation’s truck-inspired appearance. Its lines flow more freely, imparting an aura of luxury despite the vehicle’s internal ruggedness. Although I appreciated the external improvements Dodge vested upon the Durango, it is the vehicle’s spacious cabin that stole the show.
The highlight of the luxurious cabin in my view is the single-piece dashboard that Dodge has engineered for the Durango. It’s comprised of a joint-free, soft-touch material that binds the instrument panel, duct work and centre stack together into a solid unit, with little room for error.
Assembly standards are first-rate and the content level in my top-of-the-line Citadel tester was as comprehensive as that found in high-end SUVs. Seating up front is delightful and supportive; however, the same isn’t as accurate in describing the second and third rows. Although supportive, I thought that the 2nd row of seats could have been more substantial.
The 3rd row, which seats two and is split 50/50, is of typical size and substance, but more easily accessed than the 3rd row in many similarly sized SUVs. Both the second and third rows fold flat to provide a cavernous cargo bay. When all seats are occupied, the Durango can accommodate seven contented travelers.
Lots to enjoy
Dodge claims to have expended considerable effort in refining the Durango’s ride quality and comfort level, and that effort has paid off handsomely. The Durango delivers a highly absorbent ride, which is more consistent with a premium marque, not something from the Dodge boys. But the pleasures don’t end there.
In addition to spoiling occupants with a decadent ride, the Durango treats them to a quiet, hushed environment that’s largely free of engine, road and wind noises. It’s these attributes that combine with the civilized ride dynamics to deliver a delightful transportation experience.
Could there be room for improvement?
 |
| The 3rd row, which seats two and is split 50/50, is of typical size and substance, but more easily accessed than the 3rd row in many similarly sized SUVs. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |