2005 Dodge Durango Limited Test Drive

Although the base engine in the four-wheel drive Durango Limited is DaimlerChrysler's 4.7-litre (287 cu in),

My tester flexed its muscles with the optional 335-hp 5.7-litre (345 cu in) V8 Hemi. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

230-horsepower V8, my tester flexed its muscles with the optional 5.7-litre (345 cu in) V8 Hemi. Lately this gentle giant has been finding its way into quite a few DaimlerChrysler products.

In this application, the potent powerplant ejects 335 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. These numbers hustle the Durango quite effortlessly to 96 km/h (60 mph) in an estimated 8.2 seconds. With the Hemi growling beneath the hood, highway passing is spirited and hill climbing is effortless. When lazing about town, the menacing growl is nothing more than a muted burble.

Power from either of the Durango's V8s is fed through a five-speed automatic transmission, equipped with a locking

The rigidity of the Durango's body structure is outstanding, giving the Durango a refined ride. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

torque converter. This unit performed flawlessly during my demanding test period. Gear changes were barely perceptible, and there was no "slap" or "clunk" anywhere in the drivetrain, which is an admirable four-wheel drive achievement.

Complementing the Durango's refined ride is a sense of solidity attributable to very low levels of road and wind noise, both of which only become apparent at highway speeds and above. In fact, the rigidity of the Durango's body structure is outstanding. Potholes are quietly absorbed without undue thumpiness, shudder or rattle, which speaks volumes about the integrity of its ladder-frame chassis.