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| The current Durango attracts a much younger audience than its Ford Explorer counterpart, due to its more aggressive style and off-road performance. There's no doubt the next generation Durango, if truly based on this concept, will drop the demographic even further toward thirty something. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
While larger doesn't necessarily translate directly into improved, when referring to the new Durango RT HEMI concept the 'bigger is better' motto fits. Its machismo brawn even allows 9-stone weaklings to feel powerful, especially when revving its tremor inducing powerplant. But more than image and performance, the next generation Durango will pack more functionality, improved quality and a high level of creature comfort.
"Dodge owners, and particularly Dodge Durango owners, are made up of young active families that 'go' and 'do,' whether it is hauling cargo, off-roading or towing their boat on the weekend," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President-Dodge Marketing. "Dodge Durango buyers average about seven years younger than Ford Explorer buyers and they want a vehicle that provides room for the family, but one that can get them anywhere they want to be, no excuses. Being Dodge owners, they also don't want to look like everyone else doing it. So we have an SUV that only Dodge could create, with style, power and passion."
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| The Durango RT HEMI's bold crosshair grille is intimidating at the least, while its twin hood 'nostrils' blatantly declare its message of HEMI power that lays beneath. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
It's true, only Dodge could have envisioned the Durango RT HEMI concept, and then only Dodge would have had the guts to build it to production specs. And that said, only the company that provokes this younger generation to 'grab life by the horns' would dare bring it to production relatively unchanged, as they've done with concept cars so many times previously.
If this 'concept' is any indication of the 2004 Durango, and I think it's 95% true, then Dodge fans, and for that matter SUV fans North America wide, have got something to get very excited about.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 5-door SUV
- Layout: front engine, 4WD
- Engine: 345 hp, 3750 lb-ft of torque, 5.7-L, 16-valve, V8
- Transmission: 5-spd auto
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: N/A
- Seating Capacity: 7
- Cargo Volume (seats upright): 2,860 L (101 cu ft)
- Web Site: www.dodge.ca
