Changes for the 2012 Dodge Durango 7-passenger SUV include revisions to the automatic transmission on HEMI V8-equipped models, a 1-mpg improvement in the V6 AWD highway fuel-economy estimate and the availability of second-row captain's chair seating. The Express trim is replaced by the SXT trim.
The 2011 Dodge Durango is all new from the ground up. Riding on a unit body platform (the old model was body-on-frame), the Durango is now a more solid, stable and quiet vehicle. The new Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine serves as the standard powerplant, with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 as an option. In an attempt to please everyone, Dodge offers the Durango in four distinctly different trims: Express, R/T, Crew and Citadel.
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.
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why ads?By Big10Husker (NE) on Wednesday, November 16, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 500
overall rating 5 of 5rating detailsPros: "MPG, handling, interior/exterior design, great V6"
Cons: "Bit heavy, no 3rd row on the Heat model"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I purchased a I4 GMC Terrain FWD as I still wanted an SUV, but wanted decent MPG. What a disappointment. Seven months later I decided I couldn't handle the disappointing real world MPG and weak engine that I compromised in hopes of getting somewhere near the MPG claim. So I traded in the Terrain for a '11 Durango Heat AWD and I couldn't be happier. I get near full size SUV capacity, a very strong V6 and I'm only off by 2 MPG vs the Terrain in city driving and it only has 500 miles on it. I have had a couple of 50 mile HWY trips so far and based on the EVIC I'm averaging 23 MPG HWY now, I was getting about 25 MPG max on the Terrain. This was with a FWD vs the AWD in the Durango. Plus I didn't have to deal with the gear hunting of the 6 speed tranny in the Terrain. Disregard the negative comments about the 5 speed tranny in the Durango. It does just fine. I'd rather give up 1 or 2 MPG than deal with the potential of the gears always hunting. Fit and finish is great and the Heat trim handles very good for such a large SUV. This one is a keeper."
7 people out of 7 found this review helpful
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By Diane (LA) on Thursday, January 19, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 12,000
overall rating 5 of 5rating detailsPros: "Size, gas mileage, looks, technology"
Cons: "The power for the V6, but the gas mileage makes up"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I bought my Durango in August 2011. When I went to look at it, I was planning on buying a Ford Explorer or a GMC Acadia. I liked the technology of the Ford and the look of the Acadia. I was pleasantly surprised when I found the Durango. It has the technology and the looks. I have only had it for a few months, but I couldn't be happier with it. I would have to say it is my favorite vehicle so far! I love the adaptive cruise control and the blind spot monitor. They will be a must for any future vehicle that I will own. It also gets great gas mileage. I have found to be getting at least 23 and sometimes higher MPG and I drive 65 miles a day to and from work."
3 people out of 3 found this review helpful
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By Happy (TN) on Saturday, November 05, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 9,000
overall rating 5 of 5rating detailsPros: "Style and comfort."
Cons: "none"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I traded a Buick Enclave for my Citadel what a wonderful choice I made. The Buick was a great car but I love my Durango. The Durango is a head turner for sure. Handles great and the features are perfect. I feel like a Queen in this car and will own it for a long time. Gas mileage has been great. My grown children actually like riding in it they love the style."
3 people out of 3 found this review helpful
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