2004 Dodge Durango Limited

Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
AM 760 Radio Denver

Vehicle Type: AWD SUV
Base Price: $34,255
Price As Tested: $ 39,565

Pros:
Cargo Capacity
Towing
Comfort
Safety
It’s got a Hemi

Cons:
Fuel Economy
High Step-up
Feels bigger than it is

Bottom line:
The all-new for ’04 Durango improves on an already good idea while maintaining the basic formula that made the truck a winner in 1998. It’s rugged, comfortable and safe but poor fuel economy is out of step with today’s marketplace.

Size Matters:
The Durango has grown. It’s now 7 inches longer, and width and height have expanded by 3 inches each, making the new Durango larger than the Tahoe but smaller than the Expedition and Sequoia. However, it packs more cargo thanks to a flat folding 3rd row seat. This seat is best left for kids. Seating in the middle and front of the Durango is very comfortable however with both front driver and passenger seats powered for your convenience Our truck had heated front seats as well, a $250.00 option. Power adjustable pedals are standard on the Limited.

Inside:
Dodge has done a good job with the interior. I liked the dash layout and the location of the switches and controls are excellent. It kind of reminded me of this years Mitsubishi Endeavor test vehicle. The white-faced dials look nice. The limited treats its passengers to a long list of standard equipment like temperature control, rear heating and A/C, an overhead console for compass, outside temp and trip computer is included. The premium sound system features a 6-disc CD and an MP3 player. Audio quality is excellent. Large power folding, auto-dimming heated mirrors are a welcome addition.
Maybe it’s just me, but the windshield in the Durango seems small, limiting the view up from the drivers seat. I noted this while waiting for a stoplight. The power seat helps cure the problem.

This thangs got a Hemi:
The big question I get about this truck revolves around the Hemi engine. As a long-time Mopar man I was really excited to test this engine out. Bear in mind that the Durango tips the scales at nearly 4700 lbs, but I was frankly a little disappointed in the power. Acceleration is more than adequate but don’t plan on smoking the tires at the stoplight. The engine puts out 335 hp and purrs like a kitten but I would not call it ‘Sporty’. Fuel economy is poor. Expect 13 around town and 18 on the highway. It’s got a 27-gallon tank and with fuel hovering around $2.00 a gallon you can do the math on a fill-up. Ouch. On the plus side, towing is rated at 8,950 lbs. The full-time AWD system has a 2-speed transfer case optional. The Hemi engine gets a smooth shifting 5-speed automatic. The other engine choice is the respected 4.7-liter V8 making 235 hp.

The Driving Experience:
Dodge has stiffened the frame on the new Durango and that pays off with a more solid-feeling chassis. Independent front suspension and rack and pinion steering complete the upgrades resulting in better steering feel. 17” wheels improve ride and handling. The 4-wheel ABS disc brakes provide smooth braking. The afore-mentioned interior is quiet and our test truck seemed to have good build quality. With nearly 10,000 miles on the vehicle it was quiet and rattle free. The Durango is a body on frame truck and it never lets you forget it. While the steering is relatively on center, the impression you get behind the wheel is that the vehicle is larger than it really is. Don’t get me wrong, it IS big. You find that out when it’s parallel parking time.

The Verdict:
My initial impression of the Durango was very favorable. It’s quiet and very comfortable. As the miles wore on my enthusiasm faded somewhat. I think that happened after I dropped $40.00 at the gas pump one afternoon. If you are planning on doing a lot of towing and need room for up to 7 people this truck is a good choice. It should also be noted that the Durango has received a 5-star safety rating. There is no doubt this is the best Durango ever. If the price of fuel drops it will be a more appealing choice. If you are looking for a people hauler check out Chrysler’s excellent mini-van.

Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
tomcollinsaam@yahoo.com
June 15, 2004