2008 Dodge Durango Review

Introduction
For 2008, Dodge has made a few improvements. The 4.7-liter V8, for instance, has been heavily revised. It now makes 303 horsepower -- a 29 percent increase over last year's engine -- and 330 pound-feet of torque. Inside, you'll find new entertainment options such as a CD/MP3 player, DVD-compatible audio and the MyGIG multimedia infotainment system that has a hard drive to store digital music files.

Overall, the 2008 Dodge Durango is a capable and fairly well-rounded option for SUV buyers, though its competition has gotten stronger this year. The new Toyota Sequoia is now larger and more powerful, the Nissan Armada has been freshened inside and out and the Chevrolet Tahoe offers a better-furnished cabin with an efficient new two-mode hybrid powertrain option. (A similar Durango Hybrid will be available next year.) GM's large crossovers, such as the GMC Acadia, are also excellent vehicles. All said, the Durango may be worth considering if you need a strong tow vehicle that can carry a family and their gear, but keep shopping if you're looking for a refined SUV with leading-edge design.

Powertrains and Performance
The standard engine for 2WD Durango SXT and SLT models is a 3.7-liter V6 with 210 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque. Standard on Adventurer, Limited and all 4WD models is a reworked 4.7-liter V8 that generates 303 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. For maximum towing and hauling performance, an optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is also available that cranks out 330 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque. All three engines are backed by automatic transmissions; the V6 is mated to a four-speed gearbox while the V8s use five-speed automatics with a tow-haul mode. Four-wheel-drive Durangos are equipped with a standard single-speed transfer case providing full-time 4WD. For more serious off-roaders, an available two-speed transfer case features shift-on-the-fly capability between locked high-range or low-range modes.

© Source: edmunds
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