To say the Dodge Durango is venerable is true, but also a back-handed compliment: the model’s last major overhaul dates to 2011. This is an eternity in the industry. And in a segment as competitive as the one Dodge’s SUV sits in, it could prove catastrophic if the automaker doesn’t get more proactive. Dodge has managed to tweak the Durango over the years and keep it modern enough to compete.
But that only works for so long. The Durango as it stands now is seriously starting to show its age. And any major changes that may be made, won’t happen soon. Rumours are that they may come in 2020. We’ll see.
Meanwhile, Dodge has, for the 2019 model-year, once again made a few changes to its muscular SUV, offered in five versions: SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T and SRT. Here are the highlights of what’s new:
The GT variant now shares the same fascia with the SRT and R/T versions; same for the LED anti-fog lights. This version also comes with a different available performance hood featuring a central air duct and two diffusers to remove heat.
For the mid-range Citadel, the captain’s chairs are now standard equipment. All Durangos equipped with the optional Trailer Tow Package now get a standard integrated trailer brake system.
As for the SRT, the main calling card of which is a 392-cubic-inch (6.4L) HEMI V8 delivering 475 hp, it can now be equipped with a 19-speaker harmon/kardon audio system, high-performance Brembo brakes with two-piece rotors as well as 20-inch wheels in Matte Vapor or Brass Monkey finish.
The R/T trim will get Sepia leather seating and that same premium audio system, which by the way delivers a healthy 825 watts.
The captain’s chairs are installed as standard equipment and the harmon/kardon audio system is offered as an option in the Citadel versions.
It’s clear from all this that Dodge is doing what it can to keep the Durango in the game vis-à-vis its rivals.
The fact remains though that its long-term survival depends on a substantial renewal, carried out sooner rather than later.