After years of training and hard work, Dodge has finally achieved perfection with the Durango. Ironically, on paper, nothing about this American SUV should work. Or maybe that's just what we tell ourselves to feel better. Let's be honest—what we really want are big V8 engines, a muscular body, and as few changes as possible. In case you didn't know, the current generation of the Durango has been around since 2010, which is an eternity in the automotive industry. Yet, it remains one of the most reliable models in terms of initial quality and is highly appreciated by its customers. It makes you wonder if the industry is moving too fast when it should take inspiration from the Durango.
Unsurprisingly, the 2025 Dodge Durango doesn't offer anything truly new—and that's great news because we want as few changes as possible for this American SUV. In concrete terms, this means it retains its large-displacement engines and imposing character. In my opinion, if it weren't for increasingly strict emissions regulations and the constant demand for novelty among buyers, the Dodge Durango could keep evolving for decades and still be just as popular.
Lineup and Pricing
This year, the American SUV's lineup consists of five different versions, starting with the GT model at a base price of $63,190—not exactly budget-friendly. However, it remains quite reasonable for a vehicle of this size. Next is the GT Plus version at $69,185. For this slight increase, you get adaptive cruise control, an Alpine audio system, a sunroof, and several other luxury features. Things start to get serious with the R/T version at $75,990, which introduces the first V8 engine. There's also the R/T Plus version at $80,985. Finally, the SRT Hellcat version sits at the top of the lineup, and it certainly doesn't come cheap. Its starting price is $142,947, but that's still significantly less than a comparable model from the competition.
Category and Competition
The Durango falls into the midsize SUV category with three rows of seats, making it the most powerful model in its class. In fact, it competes with luxury SUVs in many aspects, which makes it an interesting choice.
Rivals: Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-90, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Highlander, Toyota Grand Highlander, Volkswagen Atlas.
Design and Technology
I think we've covered the Durango's design multiple times over the past 15 years. At the same time, Dodge clearly did a great job because the model doesn't seem to age—in fact, I believe it looks better with time. The Durango has practically become a symbol in its own right.
Inside, comfort is abundant, and it lacks nothing in terms of features. I particularly like its multimedia system, which is smooth and easy to use.
Performance
This year, Dodge has removed one engine from the Durango lineup, as the 6.4-liter V8 is no longer available. So, the range starts with the classic 3.6-liter V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Then comes the first V8—a 5.7-liter unit delivering 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 powers the Hellcat version, producing a staggering 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. This allows the Durango to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in under 4 seconds and reach a top speed of 290 km/h. Regardless of the engine choice, all models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
Weaknesses
It's fuel-hungry—but you probably expected that.
Strengths
It's an absolute pleasure to drive and one of the most versatile models in its segment. It lacks nothing in terms of equipment, and its multimedia system is among the best in the industry. Its comfort is divine—nothing less.
Signature Element
The Dodge Durango is a rebel—a vehicle that refuses to evolve, and that's exactly why we love it.
Final Thoughts
We are approaching a time when high-performance, muscular SUVs will be a thing of the past. Fortunately, the Dodge Durango is still here—but it's only a matter of time before Dodge is forced to abandon it in its current form. So, if this model interests you, now is the time to enjoy it.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
