Used 2007 Dodge Durango

Despite all the banter about the coming "crossover" SUV revolution, for those with serious towing and off-road adventure needs there is just no substitute for a full-blown, body-on-frame SUV. At the top of the power and comfort category is the Dodge Durango, a seven-passenger transportation system with a rugged and distinctive style, a fairly plush interior and the option of a HEMI V8 under the hood. Although not as large as a full-size Chevrolet Suburban, the Durango has grown large enough to compete head-on with such heavyweights as the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition. Dodge’s MDS (Multiple-Displacement System) technology helps lessen the pain at the pump, and alternative fuel fans will find a friend in the new 4.7-liter Flex Fuel V8 that can run on either gasoline or E85.

On the road, the new Durango delivers a noticeably smoother ride than its predecessor and several others in the class. The quieter interior is free from the intrusive wind and tire noise of the first generation. The steering is pretty impressive for a vehicle of this size, with good response and feedback that allow the driver to make exact lane changes and easily negotiate tight turns. Power for the base Durango is supplied by a sturdy 3.7-liter V6, with the 4.7-liter Magnum and the mighty 5.7-liter HEMI V8s as options. The base Durango is rear-wheel drive and offers the option of on-demand four-wheel drive. V8-powered Durangos also come with a tow/haul transmission setting that reduces gear searching by remaining in a lower gear for better pulling power.

The split-folding third-row seats can be folded flush, and a flip-and-tumble second-row seat greatly aids entry and exit for rear passengers. The handsome dash is clean, simple and easy to use, with controls well within the driver’s reach and logically arranged. Low-back rear seats won’t block the driver’s rearward view and feature headrests that can extend far enough to accommodate the tallest passengers. New for 2007 is the heated quad bucket seat package available on the SLT and Limited trim levels.

The Durango’s styling may be new, but it’s no less bold than the 2006 version. The Durango’s new look basically exaggerates the original model’s popular styling by enlarging the grille and front headlamps and employing the rear end of the Power Wagon concept vehicle. Larger six-by-nine-inch side mirrors improve driver visibility, while optional 20-inch chrome wheels are sure to increase the Durango’s ability to get noticed. Total up all the little changes and the effect is one strikingly imposing vehicle that looks every bit as tough as it claims to be.

HEMI Engine
The legendary HEMI engine returns and adds less than a thousand dollars to the price tag.

Side-Curtain Airbags
The standard side-curtain airbags cover all three seating rows.

The Durango features a V6 engine, dual-zone manual air conditioning, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), rear defroster, power locks, express up/down front windows, power mirrors, AM/FM stereo with CD, speed control, side-curtain airbags, Electronic Stability Program, traction control, tilt wheel, 17-inch cast aluminum wheels and a rear wiper/washer.

Options include a 4.7-liter V8 or a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, rear-seat DVD entertainment, six-disc CD/MP3 in-dash changer, leather seats, shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive, third-row seat, navigation, heated front and rear quad bucket seating, power rear liftgate, ParkSense rear park assist, Remote Start, electronic transfer case, aluminum wheels, power sunroof, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and power-adjustable pedals.

Although the V6 looks impressive on paper, the Durango’s newfound weight makes for slow going with the base engine. The 4.7-liter V8 is a better choice for shoppers trying to balance cost with performance. Of course, if you can afford an extra $1,000, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is the way to go.

3.7-liter V6
210 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
235 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/21

4.7-liter V8
235 horsepower @ 4600 rpm
300 lb.-ft. of toque @ 3600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A (E85), 14/19 (2WD Gasoline), 14/18 (4WD Gasoline)

5.7-liter V8 HEMI
335 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
370 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/19 (2WD), 13/18 (4WD)