2008 Dodge Durango [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 45 Durango reviews and test drives.
Dodge Durango - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Dodge Durango ranks 6 out of 10 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 45 published reviews and test drives of the Dodge Durango, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Durango is a big, rugged SUV for hauling and towing that handles well for its size and delivers exceptional cargo space and seating for up to eight. However, the base V6 engine is weak, and styling, both inside and out, is seen as dated, leading the Durango to be ranked in the middle of the class.
Even though freshened modestly for the 2007 model year, the Durango is based on an almost five-year old design that shows its age both inside and outside of the vehicle. While the base V6 Durango is almost universally seen as weak and underpowered, both V8 engine options generate mostly favorable test drives. Another strike against the weak V6 is that its fuel economy is on par with the more powerful V8 engines in the class. Braking and handling are very competitive, however, but some reviewers still suggest that other SUVs may offer better performance.
- "It's tough enough to handle heavy duty and civilized enough for all-around use."-- Car and Driver
- "It is mostly a job well done. It could have been done better had DaimlerChrysler concentrated on making the Durango one thing -- a good five-passenger SUV -- instead of trying to make it double as a minivan and school bus." -- Washington Post.
- "Overall, the Durango made a wonderful impression -- enough to send you shopping when you weren't in the market. But there were rough spots to give pause." -- USA Today
- "The Durango is probably just rowdy enough to thumb its nose at more soft-spoken competitors like the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander, without cannibalizing Dodge's own minivan customers. Unless they glance inside." -- U.S. News' Rick Newman
Durango Performance - 7.5 (Good)
The Durango gets a decent performance score based on its smooth ride and competent handling for its size, but the base V6 is overmatched by the SUV's bulk, detracting from the Durango's appeal and causing it to get a low performance ranking. Still, Motor Week says the Durango "delivers a solid, comfortable ride." To find out how that ride stacks up against the competition, read our full Dodge Durango Performance Review. continue
Durango Exterior - 5.2 (Mediocre)
The Durango gets a mediocre score and low ranking for its exterior styling, which is dated. Still, many reviews describe it as tough, rugged, and like it means business. Automobile Magazine warns that the "big-rig look is a bit antisocial for some." To find out how rugged is too rugged, read our full Durango exterior review, or check out our Durango photos to make up your own mind. continue
Durango Interior - 7.9 (Good)
The 2008 Dodge Durango's interior gets lukewarm reviews and ranks in the middle of the pack for being a comfortable, but not stand-out, interior. continue
Durango Safety - NA
Side air bags and an electronic-stability-control system were available standard for the first time last year on the Durango. The Durango has fared well in crash tests, receiving five out of five stars in government crash tests. continue
Durango Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Dodge Durango reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Dodge models are covered by a lifetime powertrain warranty. In addition, the Durango has a 36,000-mile roadside assistance policy and a five-year/100,000-mile rust warranty. continue
