With so many SUVs to choose from, and realizing it was time to generate more interest for its sport-ute, Dodge has redesigned its powerful Durango.
The all-new 2004 Durango offers more power, space and utility while maintaining its "right-size" position Ð a big SUV that's not too big.
Continuing to blur the line between mid-size and full-size, the new Durango provides seating for seven and offers more cargo space than its predecessor.
According to Dodge, the goals for the
2004 Dodge Durango were focused: improve the ride quality, refine the comfort and convenience level of the interior, utilize new technologies to improve safety, and increase fuel efficiency.
To meet those lofty targets, the Durango is bigger than its predecessor Ð seven inches longer, three inches wider and more than three inches taller.
With its third-row seat folded and middle row up, the way the majority of three-row seat SUVs are driven, the 2004 Dodge Durango has more cargo room than Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia.
Using the new, larger interior space and three-inch longer wheelbase to it's full potential, Dodge has added more comfort and convenience features to the Durango. A new factory installed DVD system, with wireless headsets, can play MP3 and game systems.
Durango also features an available 384-watt stereo system with rear subwoofer and available Sirius satellite radio.
Durango is offered in three trim levels: ST, SLT and top-of-the-line Limited.
The base ST comes standard with power windows, locks and mirrors, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD stereo, and cruise control.
The SLT adds a power driver seat, rear air conditioning, wood grain cabin accents, body-color front and rear fascias, foglamps and a third-row seat.
Step up to the Limited and you get leather seating, automatic climate control, high-output audio system with six-disc CD changer and steering wheel-mounted controls, auto-dimming mirrors, universal garage opener, power-adjustable pedals, alloy wheels and a security system.
The all-new 2004 Durango is also available with a sunroof for the first time and a UConnect hands-free communications system with Bluetooth technology.
The rear doors on the Durango thankfully open nearly 90 degrees to make it easier to enter and exit the second row. This was a sore spot for me on the previous model.
When needed, the third-row bench can accommodate a couple of youngsters. However, when the third-row bench is in use, there isn't much cargo space.
The standard powerplant for two-wheel-drive Durangos is a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. Standard on four-wheel-drive models is a 4.7-liter V8 the makes 230 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque.
For maximum towing and hauling power, an optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is available that generates 335 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. All three engines are mated to automatic transmissions. The V6 is teamed with a 4-speed unit while V8 models utilize a 5-speed gearbox that features a "tow/haul" mode designed to reduce gear hunting.
Our Durango tester was a top-of-the-line 4x4 Limited model with the optional ($895) Hemi engine. While there was plenty of power on hand, the Hemi is a thirsty engine. The fuel gauge in our tester seemed to drop with each jab on the throttle.
On the plus side, the Durango rides much, much better than its predecessor. My co-tester and I were very impressed with how manageable the Durango was around town.
The cabin is roomy and comfortable, and road noise is minimal. Our Durango tester felt very stable while driving Interstate 294 to O'Hare airport during a rather windy day. If you need to tow a boat or trailer, Durango is extremely capable. When properly equipped, the Durango features an 8,950-pound towing capacity.
It's a crowded field out there in SUV land, but Didge knows exactly what its Durango customers demanded Ð and they delivered.
2004 Dodge Durango 4X4 Limited Hemi
Engine: 5.7-liter (335 hp) V8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive Type: 4WD
Fuel Economy: 13 city/18 highway
Base Price: $34,255
As Tested: $37,320 (including $645 for destination)
Website: www.dodge.com