[Lisab]

Hi!

I am admittedly somewhat ignorant of auto buying altogether and limited knowledge of vehicles in general other than I drive them and get my oil changed regularly. I need to buy a new vehicle asap and I am a bit confused with all my research so I am looking for advice. In my own personal experience Dodge/Chrysler vehicles have served me well while my only ever brand new purchase was a Chevy Uplander and that was a bust, not to mention a gently used Pontiac that also didn't bode well either.

I have been toying with the idea of the Dodge Durango. Although friends have advised against, suggesting the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and the like, I just simply like the way the Durango feels driving way better than the others. This is pretty important since I put about 35,000 miles a year on my cars. Currently I am driving a Chrysler Town and Country minivan which I bought gently used and have thoroughly enjoyed but truthfully, I have to drive in inclement weather and thought as my Town and Country is nearing it's end of value to invest any money in repairs, I should invest in an AWD vehicle.

So here is where my confusion begins:

Why are the reliability ratings of the Durango so poor when the driver review are so high?

I am told to make sure I get the HEMI engine but would like to understand why that is so important when it is so much more money and very difficult to find.

My priorities are as mentioned, AWD, 3rd row (which I understand in standard), heated seats, power liftgate, power driver's seat. I would like power fold seats (is this available?), and the most cargo space available.

Again, professing my ignorance, how do I know what versions have the features I want and what exactly is available. I don't find the Dodge website particularly helpful and I can't even tell if an extended cab is available or exactly what version of the HEMI engine comes in which suv and what the significant difference is.

If it's inappropriate to ask here I apologize, but is there a better vehicle for me to consider?

Oh, I should mention I am looking to buy slightly used and trying not to finance.

Thanks in advance for your kind consideration and patience. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Lisa

 

[Don Fox]

Lisa:
Welcome to the forum! You have come to a good place as far as Durango owners who will be delighted to tell you their likes (and dislikes).
Different owners look for and appreciate different options on their vehicles. Some will want the sun roof, others will want the Hemi instead of the very stout (for it's size) 3.6L 6 cylinder. Unless you are towing boats, trailers, etc, or regularly hauling around a full load of people and crap, the V6 is fine. By all means, drive them both before you buy, but that 6 is a good engine, and will do quite well for most folks.

As far as the reviews go, you know the old saying about "bad news traveling fast." In a mass production item, there will always be a percentage that are problematic. I am on my second Durango, and both of my experiences so far have been good. Granted, my current one is an '04, whereas you are looking at the Gen 3 models (2011 and newer).

It will take a little time, but I wager you will get many responses to your inquiry.

Don

 

[DuRonbo]

I would think a 3rd gen 2011-2018 in Citadel or Limited trim would have most of the features you desire. Only feature is "Power Folding Seats" which I don't think are available on any Durango but I'm not sure on that.

AWD and the 5.7L are options for the Trim levels I mentioned.

I just purchased a used 2013 Citadel with 100k miles for $16k that has everything you mentioned with the exception of "Power Folding Seats".

Getting the V6 vs V8 will net you a few more mpg. I havn't driven any 3rd gen V6 Durangos but I can say both my RWD 2008 Limited and AWD 2013 Citadel with the 5.7L get them moving pretty effortlessly from a stop and during passing.

 

[DuRonbo]

As an example here's one that's got everything you listed. Not sure of your Price range and mileage desired.

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/774651116/overview/

 

[Moose135]

Welcome aboard, Lisa!

I have a 2014 Limited with the V-6 and AWD. As Don said, unless you are towing a lot, you should be fine with the V-6. I have no problem getting up to speed when getting on the highway, and it will easily take you to felonious speeds... ;-) I've put 155K miles on mine in 5 years, so I know about long driving, without major repairs - I'm still on the original brakes! If you are looking at a used Durango, stick with 2014+. Not only will you be more likely to find something "gently used" but starting in 2014 they went to the 8-speed transmission, which really makes a difference in performance. The Durango is the best vehicle I've ever owned.

I know you said friends are recommending an Explorer, but at the end of the day, one is a badass SUV that looks great, rides great, and really hauls. The other is a Ford...

 

[Lisab]

Thanks so much Don! It's real encouraging to know I should trust my instincts!

 

[Lisab]

Thank you! This is so helpful! The link you sent must have been a good deal because the car is not longer available but I certainly appreciate the help!

 

[Lisab]

Thanks Moose!

I really appreciate the advice! The input has really inspired the confidence to make a decision and that maybe I don't need an V8, that makes the search much easier!

 

[Lisab]

On another note....

I have taken four test drives in Dodge Durangos and admittedly I don't remember the exact different body styles but they had to be similar since they all had heated seats, I don't think any of them had the HEMI engine. Two of them where smooth as glass and a total pleasure to drive. The other two, formally rental vehicles felt a little rough around the edges. My friend who came with me to test the later said that often rentals are abused and thus leave the vehicle not in premium driving condition. Any thoughts?

Also, are all the body styles the same size or does one have an extended cab available?

What features will create the most comfortable driving experience?

Sorry if these questions seem repetitive or too ignorant for words.

Thanks again for all your help!

 

[ygbsm]

V6 is a good engine.

3rd row used to be standard, now it is optional on some of the lower trim lines.

Sorry, no power folding seat option or extended cab version.

Power tailgate is an option, sometimes not available on all trim lines.

You may want to look at a new Durango SXT Plus. It has available all the features you want, and they can be found for substantial savings off MSRP with the benefit of a full warranty.
I just built a 2019 Durango SXT Plus AWD with the Popular Equipment Group (heated seats and steering wheel, power liftgate) and the 3rd Row Seating Group- should give you what you want.

 

[ygbsm]

On another note....

I have taken four test drives in Dodge Durangos and admittedly I don't remember the exact different body styles but they had to be similar since they all had heated seats, I don't think any of them had the HEMI engine. Two of them where smooth as glass and a total pleasure to drive. The other two, formally rental vehicles felt a little rough around the edges. My friend who came with me to test the later said that often rentals are abused and thus leave the vehicle not in premium driving condition. Any thoughts?

Also, are all the body styles the same size or does one have an extended cab available?

What features will create the most comfortable driving experience?

Sorry if these questions seem repetitive or too ignorant for words.

Thanks again for all your help!

Yes, rental vehicles are often abused and should be avoided.

There is only one body style, no extended cab.

For comfortable driving experience, stick with the SXT or Citadel suspensions. R/T suspension will be rougher. Get a GOOD set of tires, makes a world of difference in road noise and comfort. If you need ventilated (air-cooled) seats, I think they are only available on the Citadel. Other than that, all Durangos ride very well and have basically the same creature comforts.

 

[Durangutan]

Considering the amount you drive per year, I would also probably advise against a former rental. "Rode hard and put away wet" usually applies to rentals, and if there was abuse and neglect, surely issues would arise with 35k miles a year being put on the clock.

As for Hemi vs. V6, if hot rod performance and towing is not a concern, then the sweet Hemi isn't necessarily a must-have. But it is a really fun performer for sure. Heck, mine is 12 years old and still runs like a bat outta hell. I love it and enjoy it every time I drive it, and I've had it forever. You haven't told us if high performance and/or towing are in play for you. If so, Hemi. If not, Hemi (but not necessary).

Reliability ratings are legit, but of course, keep in mind more people will complain than praise. Each owner has their own unique experience. And frankly, some vehicles roll off the line with chronic issues. It happens. Don't forget that those positive owner ratings you read are also legit too...

 

[Lisab]

Considering the amount you drive per year, I would also probably advise against a former rental. "Rode hard and put away wet" usually applies to rentals, and if there was abuse and neglect, surely issues would arise with 35k miles a year being put on the clock.

As for Hemi vs. V6, if hot rod performance and towing is not a concern, then the sweet Hemi isn't necessarily a must-have. But it is a really fun performer for sure. Heck, mine is 12 years old and still runs like a bat outta hell. I love it and enjoy it every time I drive it, and I've had it forever. You haven't told us if high performance and/or towing are in play for you. If so, Hemi. If not, Hemi (but not necessary).

Reliability ratings are legit, but of course, keep in mind more people will complain than praise. Each owner has their own unique experience. And frankly, some vehicles roll off the line with chronic issues. It happens. Don't forget that those positive owner ratings you read are also legit too...

Thanks so much!

 

[Lisab]

Considering the amount you drive per year, I would also probably advise against a former rental. "Rode hard and put away wet" usually applies to rentals, and if there was abuse and neglect, surely issues would arise with 35k miles a year being put on the clock.

As for Hemi vs. V6, if hot rod performance and towing is not a concern, then the sweet Hemi isn't necessarily a must-have. But it is a really fun performer for sure. Heck, mine is 12 years old and still runs like a bat outta hell. I love it and enjoy it every time I drive it, and I've had it forever. You haven't told us if high performance and/or towing are in play for you. If so, Hemi. If not, Hemi (but not necessary).

Reliability ratings are legit, but of course, keep in mind more people will complain than praise. Each owner has their own unique experience. And frankly, some vehicles roll off the line with chronic issues. It happens. Don't forget that those positive owner ratings you read are also legit too...

Thanks for the info!

 

[Lisab]

Yes, rental vehicles are often abused and should be avoided.

There is only one body style, no extended cab.

For comfortable driving experience, stick with the SXT or Citadel suspensions. R/T suspension will be rougher. Get a GOOD set of tires, makes a world of difference in road noise and comfort. If you need ventilated (air-cooled) seats, I think they are only available on the Citadel. Other than that, all Durangos ride very well and have basically the same creature comforts.

Thank you for the input!