2003 Dodge Durango Review

The Dodge Durango was introduced for 1998, but this handsome sport-utility vehicle feels pretty modern because it has a sound basic design and has been continually updated.

For instance, the mid-size Durango got a new interior in 2001 and a new five-speed automatic transmission last year. Even the 1998 model had a third-row seat, which was unusual for anything but several full-size sport-utes.

Before light trucks became hot commodities for general consumer use in the 1990s, automakers didn't change many light truck designs for years because they essentially were just work vehicles. As long as they did their job, owners didn't care if they had much comfort or convenience equipment.

The next generation Durango arrives late this year as a 2004 model with an optional Hemi V-8. Meanwhile, new features for the 2003 Durango are standard four-wheel disc brakes, larger standard cast-aluminum wheels, revised interior details and optional six-disc, in-dash CD player.

The Durango is handily sized between mid-size and full-size sport-utilities and has good maneuverability. It comes with rear- or four-wheel drive. One four-wheel-drive system must be disengaged on dry roads. But the other is a full-time system that can be left engaged and automatically delivers power to all wheels for maximum traction in wet or dry conditions.

Base prices range from $26,680 to $38,595. There are a variety of trim levels, starting with the base Sport and progressively moving up in price to the SXT, SLT, SLT Plus and hot rod R/T.

Even the base Durango is well-equipped, with items including air conditioning, AM/ FM/cassette, cruise control, remote keyless entry and power windows, locks and mirrors. Higher-line models have such things as rear air conditioning and leather upholstery.

Two potent V-8s provide strong acceleration. They are an overhead-camshaft 4.7-liter V-8 with 235 horsepower or an older style pushrod 5.9-liter V-8 with 245 horsepower and more torque for such things as easier towing.

There is no manual gearbox, and only the 4.7 V-8 comes with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 5.9 V-8 has a conventional four-speed automatic. Both transmissions are responsive, but the five-speed unit has a second overdrive ratio for better highway fuel efficiency and quieter engine operation at highway speeds.

For acceleration, the five-speed automatically chooses the higher-ratio second gear. It also selects the lower-ratio second gear in kick-down mode, providing better passing performance over a broad speed range.

Neither engine/transmission combination delivers sparkling fuel economy because the Durango has all that power and weighs from 4,379 to 4,726 pounds.

Estimated fuel economy ranges from 12-14 mpg in the city and from 17-19 on the highway, with rear-drive models being slightly more economical. A 25-gallon fuel tank enhances the driving range.

The roomy Durango is not a sports truck, but it feels carlike with precise steering, good handling, a supple ride and short stopping distances. Rear anti-lock brakes are standard, while a four-wheel anti-lock system costs $495 and is well worth the money.

Most Durangos have a fold-flat, hideaway third-row seat, which allows eight-occupant capacity with an available front bench seat that is less comfortable than the standard front bucket seats. The rear roof is raised abut two inches for more third-row headroom, but only children will be comfortable in that seat, which is reached from either side by flipping forward the second-row seat.

Second- and third-row seats fold level with the rear load floor to increase cargo space. Cargo room is good only for a few pieces of soft luggage or a week's worth of groceries with the third seat in its normal position. The cargo floor is rather high, but the cargo opening is low and wide. There's room for a full-size spare tire under the cargo floor.

It doesn't call for a lot of extra effort to get in and out of the Durango, although it's fairly tall. Occupants sit high in the quiet interior and front bucket seats are comfortable. Main controls are large and gauges can be quickly read. Large beverage containers can be handled by the cupholders.

Safety features include $495 front and second-row curtain side air bags, and the rear-seat DVD entertainment system should be a popular option.

The Durango offers power, roominess and comfort at competitive prices in a nicely sized package.


DODGE DURANGO
Prices:
$26,680-$38,595

Likes:
Handy size. Roomy. Fast. Good handling. Nice ride. New all-disc brakes.

Dislikes:
Low fuel economy. Older design. Moderate cargo room with third seat in place.