Dodge Durango

Dodge Durango
Overview
Manufacturer Chrysler Corporation (1997)
DaimlerChrysler AG (1997–2007)
Chrysler LLC (2007–2009)
Chrysler Group LLC (2009-present)
Production 1997–2009
2010–present
Body and chassis
Class Mid-size SUV (1997–2003)
Full-size SUV[1] (2004–present)
Body style 4-door SUV
Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive
Chronology
Predecessor Dodge Ramcharger

The Dodge Durango is a sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by the Dodge division of Chrysler. The first two generations were very similar in that both were based on the Dodge Dakota, both featured a body-on-frame construction and both were produced at the Newark Assembly plant in Newark, Delaware. However, they did differ in that the first generation was classified as a mid-size SUV while, the second generation was classified as a full-size SUV.

The third generation Durango however is built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, features unibody construction and is currently being assembled at the Jefferson North Assembly plant in Detroit, Michigan. However, it does retain the previous generation's classification as a full-size SUV.

First generation (1998–2003)

First generation
Overview
Production 1997–2003
Assembly Newark, Delaware, United States (Newark Assembly)
Body and chassis
Class Mid-size SUV
Platform Chrysler DN platform
Related Dodge Dakota
Powertrain
Engine 3.9 L (238 cu in) Magnum V6
4.7 L (287 cu in) PowerTech V8
5.2 L (318 cu in) Magnum V8
5.9 L (360 cu in) Magnum V8
Transmission

4-speed TorqueFlite automatic

4-speed RFE automatic

5-speed RFE automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 116.2 in (2,950 mm)
Length 193.5 in (4,910 mm) (2001–2003)
193.3 in (4,910 mm) (1998–2000)
Width 71.5 in (1,820 mm) (1998–2000)
71.3 in (1,810 mm) (2001–2003)
Height 70.0 in (1,780 mm) (2001–2003)
72.9 in (1,850 mm) (1998–2000)
Curb weight 4,500 pounds (2,000 kg) (1998–2000)
4,520 lb (2,050 kg) (2001–2003)

The Durango was marketed as a sturdy truck-based SUV designed to hold up to eight passengers and tow up to 8,950 lb (4,060 kg) when properly equipped.[2] The 4.7 L PowerTech V8 replaced the 5.2 L Magnum V8 engine for 2000; however, the 5.2 was still available in the early 2000 models. In that same year a special AWD performance version called the R/T was released with a 5.9 L Magnum V8. In 1999 and 2000, a limited edition Shelby S.P.360 version was offered that featured a supercharged version of the 5.9 L Magnum V8 engine. Output is 360 hp (270 kW; 360 PS) and 412 lb·ft (559 N·m) of torque. Exterior modifications include unique wheels, tires, suspension, and bumpers. It came standard with Viper blue paint with two racing stripes down the center of the truck. It boasted a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.1 seconds. The top speed was 142 mph (229 km/h).

1998: First model year for Durango, available only in 4WD.

1999: The Durango was made available with 2WD. A 3.9L Magnum V6 engine was available, however few were sold. Minor changes were made for the 2nd year, two new paint colors and notable options available including 6 in × 9 in (150 mm × 230 mm) heated rear view mirrors and steering wheel-mounted radio controls. Leather seats became standard on SLT Plus models, and body-color wheel flares became standard on SLT Plus and 4WD Models.

2000: The new 4.7 L PowerTech V8 engine replaced the 5.2 L Magnum V8 as the standard engine for 4WD models. The 3.9L Magnum V6 engine was no longer available, leaving only V8s for the rest of the production run. The high performance Durango R/T came equipped with a performance tuned 5.9 L Magnum V8 and AWD.

2001: Dodge focused on interior upgrades as Durango's interior trim panels, dash mounted controls, instrument panel, overhead console, and steering wheel were all redesigned. The transfer case selector on 4X4 models changed from a manual lever on the console to a switch on the dash. The instrument cluster was updated and an electronic vehicle information center (EVIC) was incorporated into the overhead console. For improved rear passenger comfort, a dual-zone climate control system was added as standard equipment. Sound systems were improved on all models and now came standard with SX speakers. Other minor changes include door panels, revised seats, aluminium wheels, and minor changes to trim options.

2002: The new SXT version of the Durango was offered as the entry-level trim package. Optional side curtain airbags were added for safety.

2003: Durango featured minor mechanical changes, most notable was the addition of 4-wheel disc brakes.

Trim levels

Engines

Transmissions

Second generation (2004–2009)

Second generation
Overview
Also called Chrysler Aspen
Production 2003–2008
Model years 2004–2009
Assembly United States: Newark, Delaware (Newark Assembly)
Body and chassis
Class Full-size SUV
Related Dodge Dakota
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase 119.2 in (3,030 mm)
Length 200.8 in (5,100 mm)
Hybrid: 202.1 in (5,130 mm)
Width 76.0 in (1,930 mm)
Height 74.3 in (1,890 mm)
Hybrid: 73.6 in (1,870 mm)

The second generation Durango was first shown as a concept dubbed Dodge Durango R/T concept at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show. It debuted shortly before the companion Dakota. Like the Dakota, it has much in common with the large Dodge Ram pickup, including a fully boxed frame. It is 7 in (180 mm) longer, 2 in (51 mm) wider, and 3 in (76 mm) taller than the previous model. It also offered a third row bench with three seats, giving it an eight-seat capacity. The design took its styling primarily from the Dodge Powerbox concept, which was itself based on the 1999 Dodge Power Wagon Concept, and the 2003 Durango R/T concept.

Debuting for 2004 was a new coil-spring rear suspension for the solid rear axle. A Watt's linkage system is fitted to the rear axle, centering the axle and reducing rear-end skate over rough surfaces, and allowing a lower and wider cargo floor.

Facelift

2006–2009 Dodge Durango

The 2007 model year version was reworked to halt a sales decline, debuting at the Dallas Auto Show in April 2006. It featured a redesigned grille, hood, headlamps, fenders and wheels. New features included electronic stability control, a tire pressure monitoring system, rear park assist, and a one-touch turn signal. The 2007 model also featured a reworked floor and an electrical system in preparation for the 2009 hybrid version.

In 2006, Chrysler introduced a luxury SUV based on the Durango, called the Chrysler Aspen.

Discontinuation

In October 2008, as demand for full-size SUVs fell off, Chrysler announced that the shutdown of the Newark Assembly facility, which produced the Durango and Chrysler Aspen, would be moved up to the end of 2008, thereby ending production of the Aspen and Durango for the 2009 model year.[3][4] Production ceased on December 19, 2008. This effectively ended production of the Aspen and Durango Hybrids for the 2009 model year.[3]

Hybrid

Chrysler began manufacturing its first production hybrid vehicles,[5] the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hybrids; for the 2009 model year[5][6] on August 22, 2008.[7][8] They featured the 345 hp (257 kW) 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi engine with MDS as well as the new Two-Mode Hybrid system developed with General Motors and BMW. Total output combined with the electric motors is 385 horsepower, although with the added weight and taller final-drive ratio, the hybrids will be slower than comparable nonhybrid Hemi models.[9] The manufacturer claimed an almost 25% gain in overall fuel economy and an almost 40% gain in the city.[10][11] EPA testing on the Hybrids with the Hemi V8 engine indicates fuel mileage to be about 20 miles per US gallon (12 L/100 km; 24 mpg-imp) (city) and 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp) (highway) for the 2009 models.[12] The non-hybrid models were rated at 13 mpg-US (18 L/100 km; 16 mpg-imp) (city) and 19 mpg-US (12 L/100 km; 23 mpg-imp) (highway).[13] Chrysler want to position the hybrids as a less expensive alternative to GM's hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, which use a similar hybrid system. Chrysler announced that the 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid would have a starting MSRP of $45,570 [14] and the 2009 Dodge Durango Hybrid would have a starting MSRP of $45,340.[15] The hybrid became available at dealerships in early October, the same month Chrysler announced the termination of all Durango and Aspen production.[7] Chrysler had received approximately 3,000 pre-orders for both models from dealers. It was uncertain if the automaker filled those orders.[16] By early November 2008, 400 of the hybrid SUVs, including Chrysler Aspen, had already been built.[7] It was one of the shortest-lived model from a major automaker in modern times.[7]

Chrysler Aspen

Not to be confused with Dodge Aspen.
2007–2009 Chrysler Aspen

The Chrysler Aspen was a full-size, luxury sport utility vehicle from Chrysler. Launched for the 2007 model year, the Aspen was based on the Dodge Durango SUV. Together with the Durango, it was the first production hybrid vehicle from the company.

The Aspen was the first truck-based Sport Utility Vehicle commercialized under the Chrysler brand, although the PT Cruiser was the first truck-based Chrysler brand vehicle as classified under Corporate Average Fuel Economy's (CAFE) regulation. With this introduction, as of 2006, all American automobile brands had an SUV in their range.[17] The truck was unveiled at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. The Aspen came equipped with three rows of seating for 8 passengers and available all-wheel drive.[18] It was available in only one trim Limited.

Trim levels

Engines

Third generation (2011–present)

Third generation
Overview
Production 2010–present
Model years 2011–present
Assembly Detroit, Michigan, United States (Jefferson North Assembly)
Body and chassis
Class Full-size SUV
Related Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Mercedes-Benz R-Class
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2)
Powertrain
Engine 3.6 L Pentastar V6
5.7 L Hemi V8
Transmission 5-speed W5A580 automatic
5-speed 545RFE automatic
6-speed 65RFE automatic
8-speed 845RE automatic(2014-)
Dimensions
Wheelbase 119.9 in (3,045 mm)
Length 199.8 in (5,075 mm)
Width 75.8 in (1,925 mm)
Height 70.9 in (1,801 mm)

On August 16, 2010, Dodge released an Internet site and teaser photos of the third generation of Dodge Durango. The new Durango is built alongside of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the Jefferson Ave. Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan. The new Durango shares not only the assembly line with the Grand Cherokee, but also the running gear, powertrains, and chassis parts. The new Durango features two engines. The base engine is a new 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 290 hp (220 kW; 290 PS) and 260 lb·ft (350 N·m) of torque at 4,800 rpm; 90% of peak torque is available from 1,600 to 6,400 rpm. The Pentastar V6 is attached to the Mercedes W5A580 five-speed automatic, with Chrysler's controls and the driver-interactive control. The 5.7 L Hemi VVT V8 returns with 360 hp (270 kW; 360 PS) and 390 lb·ft (530 N·m) of torque, which features the 545RFE 5-speed automatic. The HEMI V8 also comes with a "fuel-saver"(cylinder deactivation) mode. This feature is primarily used when the vehicle is cruising at constant speeds on level ground.

The wheelbase of the new Durango is longer than that of the Grand Cherokee. It features three rows of seating compared to the Grand Cherokee's two rows.

The 2011 Dodge Durango entered production on December 14, 2010,[19] alongside the second generation Charger in the 2011 vehicle lineup. It went on sale for general dealership availability in mid-January 2011.

Updates

2014 Durango with refreshed headlights and grille

Dodge unveiled its revised 2014 model year Durango at the 2013 New York Auto Show. It features sportier-looking lines, an 8-speed automatic transmission as well as a new design trim similar to the Rallye, with blackened plastic bumper and outline. It also features the LED 'Racetrack' tail lamps also found on the Charger and Dart. On the inside, it features a revised steering wheel and the reconfigurable 7 inch (780mm) Thin Film Transistor (TFT) display first seen on the Dart.

The 2015 Durango sees a new package that will be available for the R/T trim, consisting of a Premium Nappa Leather Group option featuring radar red leather seats, 0.8-inch-lower right height, black headlamp bezels, HID low beams and LED DRLS, R/T embroidery on the seats (optional), a nine-speaker sound system with a subwoofer, a 360-horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi paired with ZF’s ubiquitous eight-speed transmission, and a 20-inch Granite Crystal wheel finish decked out in black.[20]

On June 5, 2012, Autoblog reported that Dodge is expected to discontinue the Durango, possibly due to Fiat Chrysler's plans to phase out Dodge's SUV lineup and shift it over to sister division Jeep as part of a realignment to have Dodge focus on cars and CUVs with Jeep concentrating exclusively on SUVs, and due to Jeep's plans to reintroduce the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, expected to be the Durango's successor, set for a targeted 2016 or 2017 launch (a reveal is slated for 2015).[21] While the 2015 model year will be the final one under this generation despite having good sales,[22] Dodge will retain the Durango brand with plans for a relaunching after Jeep's Grand Wagoneer's relaunch.[23] Canada will still sell 2015 Durangos as 2016 models until mid-2016.

Engines

Model Engine Displacement Power @ rpm Torque @ rpm Years Note
Express 3.6 V6 Pentastar 3,604 cc (219.9 cu in) 290 hp (220 kW; 290 PS) @ 6400 rpm 350 N·m (260 lb·ft) @4800 rpm 2011–
Crew 2011– option 5.7 V8 HEMI
CrewLux 2011– option 5.7 V8 HEMI
Citadel 2011– option 5.7 V8 HEMI
Heat 2011–
R/T 5.7 V8 HEMI 5,654 cc (345.0 cu in) 360 hp (270 kW; 360 PS) @ 5150 rpm 530 N·m (390 lb·ft) @4250 rpm 2011– MDS


Total American sales

Dodge Durango sales

Calendar Year US Sales
1997 20,263[24]
1998 156,923[25]
1999[26] 189,840
2000 173,567
2001[27] 130,799
2002[28] 106,925
2003[29] 108,010
2004[30] 137,148
2005[29] 115,439
2006[31] 70,606
2007[29] 45,503
2008[29] 21,420
2009[32] 3,521
2010[33] 572
2011[34] 51,697
2012[35] 42,589
2013 60,727[36]
2014 64,398[37]

Chrysler Aspen sales

Calendar Year Sales
2006[38] 7,656
2007[39] 28,788
2008[40] 22,254
2009[41] 5,996
2010[42] 30

Recall

On August 16, 2012, Chrysler recalled 1,661 2013-model Dodge Durango sport utility vehicles in the United States and Canada because some airbags may not deploy in an accident. The recall affects 1,449 of the seven-passenger versions of the SUVs in the United States and 212 in Canada and other markets.[43]

References

  1. ↑ "Dodge SUVs". dodge.com. Retrieved 2014-11-12.
  2. ↑ "Top 10 Vehicles for Towing" Edmunds.com, retrieved on 2010-02-08.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Edmunds Insideline: Chrysler Kills Durango and Aspen Hybrids". Edmunds.com. 2008-10-23. Retrieved 2010-09-02.
  4. ↑ Mike Ramsey (2008-10-23). "Chrysler to Cut 1,825 Jobs on Early Plant Closure, Output Trim". Bloomberg.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 "Edmunds Insideline: Chrysler Kills Durango and Aspen Hybrids". Edmunds.com. 2008-10-23. Retrieved 2010-09-03.
  6. ↑ "2009 Aspen HEMI Hybrid - SUV, Sport Utility Vehicle, Hybrid". Chrysler. Retrieved 2010-09-03.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 Eddie Alterman (2008-11-13). "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow". The New York Times.
  8. ↑ Ramsey, Mike (2008-10-28). "Chrysler to Drop First Hybrids, After October Debut (Update2)". Bloomberg. Retrieved 2010-09-02.
  9. ↑ "2009 Aspen HEMI Hybrid". Car and Driver. Retrieved 2014-03-01.
  10. ↑ "2009 Aspen HEMI Hybrid - Benefits". Chrysler. Retrieved 2012-01-13.
  11. ↑ "hybrid: two-mode system". Dodge.com. Retrieved 2008-11-20. The 2009 Durango HEMI Hybrid takes that a step further with its two-mode system that integrates a hybrid-electric drive system – which reduces fuel consumption by almost 40 percent[1] while running errands in town<...> The payoff is an increased overall fuel economy of nearly 25 percent.
  12. ↑ Abuelsamid, Sam (2008-10-17). "Chrysler's new hybrid SUVs score a 20/22 mpg from the EPA". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 2010-09-02.
  13. ↑ "www.fueleconomy.gov, 2009 Dodge Durango 4WD". Fueleconomy.gov. Retrieved 2010-09-02.
  14. ↑ Ross, Jeffrey N. (2008-06-17). "Chrysler announces starting MSRP for 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid". Autotropolis.com. Retrieved 2008-06-17.
  15. ↑ Ross, Jeffrey N. (2008-06-17). "Chrysler announces starting MSRP for 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid". Autotropolis.com. Retrieved 2008-06-17.
  16. ↑ Scott Doggett and John O'Dell (2008-10-23). "Chrysler to Discontinue Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hybrids, Shutter Plant; Move Not Seen As Indicator of a Hybrid Collapse Amid Industry's Financial Turmoil". Edmunds Auto Observers.
  17. ↑ McLane, Jenny (2006). "Chrysler Aspen Boasting the Chrysler Design". Retrieved 2008-04-27. As per the Chrysler Aspen’s introduction, all American automobile brands have a SUV under their wings.
  18. ↑ 2008 Chrysler Aspen - Driving Dynamics - Drivetrain
  19. ↑ "Chrysler Group LLC Celebrates Start of Production of 2011 Dodge Durango at its Jefferson North Assembly Plant". media.chrysler.com. Retrieved 2010-12-28.
  20. ↑ Sammy Hagar is Stoked: Dodge Now Offering Radar Red Leather on 2015 Durango R/T from Car and Driver (March 26, 2015)
  21. ↑ "Dodge Durango, Avenger models will be discontinued, SRT model for Journey planned" from Autoblog (June 5, 2012)
  22. ↑ "10 Cars That Are Being Discontinued After 2015: 10. Dodge Durango" from Inside Car News (October 31, 2014)
  23. ↑ Hirsh, Jerry; Unredcoffler, David (May 6, 2014). "Fiat Chrysler unveils aggressive five-year plan". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved August 17, 2014.
  24. ↑ http://www.theautochannel.com/news/press/date/19990105/press002114.html
  25. ↑ http://wagoneers.com/JEEPS/tech/1998-SUV-sales.html
  26. ↑ "Chrysler Group Announces Year-End and December Sales". Theautochannel.com. Retrieved 2009-04-28.
  27. ↑ "Chrysler Group Reports U.S. December Sales". Theautochannel.com. Retrieved 2009-04-28.
  28. ↑ "Chrysler Group Reports December 2003 Sales Increase of 2 Percent". Theautochannel.com. 2004-11-17. Retrieved 2009-04-28.
  29. ↑ 29.0 29.1 29.2 29.3 "Dodge Durango Sales Figures". goodcarbadcar.net. 2011-01-01. Retrieved 2014-11-12.
  30. ↑ "Chrysler Group 2005 U.S. Sales Rise 5 Percent, Highest Since 2000; December Sales Decline In Line with Overall Industry". Prnewswire.com. Retrieved 2009-04-28.
  31. ↑ "Total Chrysler LLC December 2007 Sales Up 1 Percent on the Strength of Retail; Demand...". Reuters. 2008-01-03. Retrieved 2009-04-28.
  32. ↑ "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2009 U.S. Sales". www.CheersandGears.com. Retrieved 2010-01-05.
  33. ↑ "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2010 U.S. Sales". www.CheersandGears.com. Retrieved 2011-01-04.
  34. ↑ "Chrysler sales shoot up 37% (26% for 2011)". allpar.com. Retrieved 2012-01-04.
  35. ↑ "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2012 U.S. Sales Increased 10 Percent" (Press release). Chrysler Group LLC. 2013-01-03. Retrieved 2013-01-04.
  36. ↑ http://media.chrysler.com/newsrelease.do;jsessionid=04E2E41899B110B5B85BAD5C0964196E?&id=15189&mid=1
  37. ↑ http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fca-us-llc-reports-december-2014-us-sales-increased-20-percent--best-december-sales-in-a-decade-full-year-sales-up-16-percent--strongest-annual-sales-since-2006-300015372.html
  38. ↑ "Chrysler Aspen Sales Figures". goodcarbadcar.net. 2013-04-29. Retrieved 2014-11-12.
  39. ↑ "Total Chrysler LLC December 2007 Sales Up 1 Percent on the Strength of Retail". CheersandGears.com. 2008-01-03. Retrieved 2009-01-05.
  40. ↑ "December 2008 Sales: Chrysler LLC". CheersandGears.com. 2009-01-05. Retrieved 2009-01-05.
  41. ↑ "Chrysler Group LLC December 2009 Sales". CheersandGears.com. 2010-01-05. Retrieved 2010-01-05.
  42. ↑ http://www.autospies.com/news/Chrysler-Sales-End-The-Year-Up-17-December-Sales-Rose-16-60590/ Chrysler Sales End The Year Up 17% - December Sales Rose 16%
  43. ↑ "Chrysler recalls 1,661 Dodge SUVs for airbag issue". Reuters. Retrieved 16 August 2012.

External links

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