2015 Dodge Durango | new car review
Review Summary:
The Dodge Durango is an American SUV that started its life in 1998 as a mid-size SUV and utilized a body-on-frame construction platform. Over the years, it’s grown into a full-size SUV and has also done away with the body-on-frame construction, in favour of the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s platform that adopts a unibody construction.
Pros
One of the better looking SUVs to be seen on the streets.
Cons
By adopting a unibody construction, it's had to bid farewell to its off-road capability.
Looks
Currently in its third generation, the 2015 Dodge Durango is the result of a mid life-cycle refresh that now sees a new set of LED taillights, cleaner lines and a blackened bumper for a sportier presence. With an aggressive fascia and a butch exterior, the Dodge Durango is no softie, in fact, it’s one of the most hostile looking SUV’s out there and quite frankly, that just adds to its appeal.
Feels
Inside, it’s all very civilized with leatherette wrapping, chrome trim and a sizeable infotainment screen parked bang in the centre of the dashboard. Sporting a new steering wheel with paddle shifters, along with illuminated cup holders and comfortable seats, the cabin of the 2015 Dodge Durango is a nice place to be. Very nice, in fact.
Engineering
In addition to blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning and electronic stability control, the 2015 Dodge Durango is equipped with adaptive cruise control – a system that automatically adjusts cruising speed to maintain the set distance using throttle control and limited braking. Additionally, when necessary, it can also slow the vehicle down to a complete, controlled stop in an effort to help prevent a collision.
What’s on offer?
Four versions of the Dodge Durango are available, starting from AED 135,000 right up to AED 210,000. Under the hood, it’s either a 3.6 litre V6 that churns out 290 horsepower, or a beefier 5.7 litre V8 HEMI that packs in 360 horsepower and boasts a towing capacity of 3,350 kg.
Summing it…
For a car that looks this good, it’s a shame that Dodge confiscated its off-road capability because it would have made for an epic sight atop a dune over the weekend. Either way, for the price it’s at, not a lot can come close to it.
Specifications
| Specifications | 2015 Dodge Durango 3.6L | 2015 Dodge Durango 5.7L |
|---|---|---|
| Engine/ Cylinders | 3.6 litre V6 | 5.7 litre V8 |
| Max Power (bhp/rpm) | 290 hp @ 6,400 RPM | 360 hp @ 5,150 RPM |
| Max Torque (Nm/rpm) | 353 Nm @ 4,800 RPM | 520 Nm @ 4,250 RPM |
| Tranmission | 8 speed automatic | 8 speed automatic |
| Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Four Wheel Drive |
| 0-100 km/h | 9.2 secs | 7.7 secs |
| Top speed | 195 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Price | AED 135,000 - 167,000 | AED 175,000 - 210,000 |
Tony Mathew
July 4, 2015 at 4:51 pm
my favorite car…and i love this one.