2004 DODGE DURANGO NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Dodge Durango?
The 2004 Dodge Durango is brand new from the wheels up. Bigger and more powerful than before, three trim levels are available: ST, SLT and Limited. A 210-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 makes 235 lb.-ft. of torque and is standard only on ST and SLT 2WD models. Also available is a 230-horse 4.7-liter V8 worth 235 lb.-ft. of torque or a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 making 335 ponies and 370 lb.-ft. of torque. All Dodge Durangoes come equipped with an automatic transmission, and power is delivered to the rear or all four wheels. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 8,950 pounds, and with the second- and third-row seats folded the 2004 Dodge Durango will carry up to 102.4 cubic feet of cargo. Four-wheel-disc ABS and 17-inch wheels are standard. Buyers can opt for a traction control system, and if the AWD model is selected there is an available two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing available for serious off-road work. Other notable options include adjustable pedals for the driver, side-curtain airbags for all three rows of seats, DVD entertainment with an in-dash CD changer, an Infinity Level II DSP sound system, Sirius satellite radio and Uconnect Bluetooth wireless communications technology.

Advantages of the 2004 Dodge Durango:

• Room for seven in three rows of seats
• Large maximum cargo and towing capacities
• Stout Hemi V8 engine option
• Ride, steering, handling and braking exceptional for the class

Objections to the 2004 Dodge Durango:

• Fuel economy
• Rearward visibility
• Inexpensive, mismatched interior materials
• Head toss when driving on lumpy pavement

Editor's Advice:
Billboard advertising for the 2004 Dodge Durango claims that the all-new SUV is a blend of luxury and strength. That’s not exactly accurate, because the interior materials would be, in several cases, barely acceptable in a Neon. However, this is one SUV that offers high levels of occupant comfort and cargo capacity. Mechanically, Dodge has done an excellent job of fine-tuning the powertrain, brakes, suspension and steering. Ride quality on smooth pavement is commendable, but there’s plenty of head toss on undulating road surfaces. Rearward visibility is not good, and fuel economy with the optional Hemi V8 is not likely to impress. Now sized more like a Chevy Tahoe than a Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the Durango is likely to appeal to families who value expressive design combined with towing capacity and space for seven adults. Dodge will, however, need to add availability of a stability control system if it expects the Durango to remain competitive.