2007 Dodge Durango Review

The Durango is a full-size SUV that debuted in 1998. The first generation ran until 2003, when it was upgraded to be larger. After sales slipped, Dodge decided to retool the Durango for 2007. While not technically a new generation, it has undergone numerous changes both externally and internally.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Dodge Durango is the ideal choice for men who wouldn’t be caught dead in a Honda or a Hyundai. Unfortunately, in terms of features and reliability, it can’t keep up with them either. However, with its much needed 2007 revisions, it finally makes the grade as an acceptable family vehicle.

What’s New For 2007:

Several changes have been implemented for 2007. Now all Durangos come standard with side airbags and heated mirrors. The exterior has been redesigned. The Limited trim now features parking assist and interior leather trim. Tire pressure monitors come standard on SLT and Limited.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power only gives the Durango 2.5 stars for overall manufacturing quality and 3 stars for design quality. The original Durango had a number of issues, including weak air conditioning, misfires, vehicle noise, and water leaks. It was recalled nine times. The current Durango has held up a bit better, having problems with brake pads, nonfunctional remote starters, and issues when backing up. It has been recalled eight times for issues such as breaking wipers, shifting problems, malfunctioning electronics, and locking rear brakes. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Durango earned a perfect 5 star rating in government frontal crash tests. Other information is not available. Antilock brakes and side airbags are standard. The Limited comes with stability control and adjustable pedals.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Roomy interior
+ Capable towing capacity
+ Tough image

Cons
– Incomplete safety picture
– Poor reliability history
– Lacking standard safety features

Head-To-Head Competition:

There’s no shortage of competitors for the Durango. A Hyundai Santa Fe at the same price will get you traction control, AWD, and 30 more hp. The Toytoa RAV4 Limited at the same price will include traction control, AWD, a CD changer, 60 more horsepower, and much better gas mileage. Also at this price point is the Suzuki XL-7 Luxury, which features traction control, AWD, leather seats, and 40 more hp.

What Others Are Saying:

“While most SUVs are targeted to women drivers, the Durango will likely attract men. There’s nothing cutesy about its shape or its bulk. This is a full size working truck.” – About.com

“Like the big Ram, the Durango does its best to mask its yacht like enormity with reasonably precise, convincingly carlike rack-and-pinion steering. Any urgent braking, accelerating, or changing of direction, however, provokes pronounced dive, pitch, and/or roll-no surprise, considering the Durango’s high center of gravity and prodigious mass, but it’s generally no worse than other body-on-frame sport-utilities in this class.” – Automobile Magazine

“Overall, the Dodge Durango is a super full-size SUV.” – The Auto Channel

Read more about the 2007 Dodge Durango at the Dodge manufacturer web site.