2002 Dodge Durango Review

The Dodge Durango continues to have a leg up on rivals because it's still the only sport-utility vehicle sized between mid-size and full-size sport-utes for better maneuverability and easier garaging. Yet the Durango is plenty roomy. Most models offer a third-row seat to allow eight-occupant capacity. The Durango's rear roof is raised nearly two inches for more third-row headroom, but the third seat has a short bottom cushion and isn't comfortable on long drives. The Durango was introduced for 1998 with that third seat, which then was an unusual feature for anything but a few full-size sport-utes.

This handsome sport-ute is derived from the Dodge Dakota pickup truck and shares that model's "big rig'' styling. But the Durango has a widened Dakota frame to allow more occupant room and space for a full-size spare tire under the floor, a big 25-gallon fuel tank and a recess for the third-row seat when it's folded flat. Base prices for Durangos recently were raised $200 and range from $25,400 to $36,920. There's a base Sport model, higher-line SLT and SLT Plus models and hot rod R/T. It's generally easy to get in and out of the Durango, although it's fairly high and not like one of the new car-based sport-utes.

However, the Durango often feels more carlike than trucklike. This is no sports truck like a BMW X5 sport-ute, but it has precise steering, good handling and a supple ride that's generally immune to road imperfections. While heavy, it doesn't feel ponderous like many larger sport-utilities. Its V-8s provide strong acceleration. The brake pedal feel is good, but the $495 front and rear anti-lock brake system really is needed for short emergency stops. Only rear anti-lock brakes are standard. The quiet interior is nicely designed. Occupants sit high, and the front bucket seats are very supportive. Gauges are easily read and the main controls are large. Cupholders easily handle large beverage containers.

The third-row seat isn't offered for the Sport, but is standard in the SLT, SLT Plus and RT. The second-row split bench seat seat flips forward to allow easy access to the third-row bench seat. Both second- and third-row seats fold level with the rear load floor to significantly increase cargo area. That's good because the cargo area is just moderately large with the third seat in its normal position. The cargo opening is low and wide, although the cargo floor is rather high. The Durango's styling still looks good, and the vehicle has been continually updated. For example, the 2000 model got a new 4.7-liter V-8 and the 2001 model received a new interior.

The latest Durango has a new five-speed automatic transmission with the 235-horsepower 4.7-liter V-8 that is standard in most Durangos. It replaces a four-speed automatic and allows better fuel economy and quieter engine operation. Also new are optional side curtain air bags for first- and second-row occupants and a dealer-installed $1,650 DVD entertainment system. There's a popular new $1,000 SXT option for the Sport that has graphite front/rear fascias, fender flares, CD player, bucket seats and larger 16-inch wheels.

The hot R/T has such items as a 5.9-liter, 245 horsepower V-8, stiffer suspension, performance axle ratio with a limited-slip rear differential, huge 17-inch wheels and even a sport-tuned exhaust. Standard on all Durangos are front bucket seats and a split-folding second-row bench seat, although the Sport can be had with a $150 front bench seat for eight-passenger capacity. All models can be had with rear- or four-wheel drive. One of the systems must be disengaged on dry roads to avoid damage to it, while the other can be left engaged on dry pavement.

The four-wheel-drive models have low-range gearing for rugged off-road driving, which the solid Durango easily can handle. A full-time four-wheel drive system is standard on the R/T but optional on the SLT and SLT Plus. All drive systems now are controlled by a convenient dashboard switch, not a floor-mounted lever. The 5.9-liter pushrod V-8 works with a four-speed automatic. Compared to the 4.7-liter V-8, it has the added power and more torque for a higher towing capacity.

The smooth, overhead-camshaft 4.7 is more modern than the 5.9 V-8 and loafs at 2,000 rpm at 70 mph. But the 5.9 V-8 is only a $595 option for the SLT and SLT Plus if you need added punch. Both engines are fuel-thirsty, which usually is the case with powerful sport-utes. The 4.7 V-8 delivers an estimated 13-14 mpg in the city and 17-19 on highways. The figures are 12 in the city and 16-17 on highways with the 5.9 V-8. Rear-drive models get the slightly higher mileage. The competitively priced Durango is a solid buy because it offers plenty of style, room and power in a nicely priced, conveniently sized package that makes it easier to live with than larger sport-utes.

DODGE DURANGO

Prices
$25,400-$36,920
Likes
Handy size. Roomy. Good handling. Nice ride. New five-speed automatic transmission. New side-curtain air bags.
Dislikes
Low fuel economy. No standard front/rear anti-lock brake system. Moderate cargo room with fold-down third seat in its normal position.