The Durango has been around since the late 1990s, which means used shoppers have more than two decades of models to sort through. Today, we're looking at more recent generations in this used Dodge Durango buying guide, and we've found that some years have held up much better than others.
Key Takeaways:
- Durango reliability is strongest in 2014-2018 and 2022-2024 models.
- Older first- and second-generation models can be inexpensive, but their age makes them harder to recommend.
- Dodge offered a hybrid Durango in the 2009 model year.
What Are the Best Years for a Used Dodge Durango?
If reliability is high on your list, focus your search on 2014-2018 or 2022-2024 models. These third-generation Durangos have the strongest reliability and safety ratings, according to Auto Trader.
There's another reason to look at 2014 and later examples. Dodge updated the Durango's styling for 2014 and added an eight-speed automatic. A few years later, the 2018 model brought Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with the debut of the SRT, which paired standard AWD with a 475-horsepower V8.
More equipment arrived as the generation continued. Wireless smartphone integration and wireless charging were added for 2021. In 2022, three-row seating and rear parking sensors became standard on the SXT, while the GT received remote start, a power liftgate, and a heated steering wheel. Heated front seats became standard in 2023, followed by standard blind-spot monitoring in 2024.
Why Is the Third-Generation Durango the One to Target?
The 2011 redesign transformed the Durango into a much more modern SUV. It shares its platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the new architecture improved ride quality and reduced interior noise while retaining the strength needed for towing and off-road driving.
Dodge also equipped this generation with tech that was unusual for its age. Adaptive cruise control was already available in 2011, years before the feature became widespread among competing three-row SUVs.
The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 delivers between 290 and 295 horsepower, depending on the model and year. It also offers better fuel economy than the V8 choices while retaining a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds.
Shoppers interested in more power have several V8s to consider. The 5.7-liter produces 360 horsepower, the 6.4-liter raises output to 475 horsepower, and the supercharged 6.2-liter in the Hellcat generates 710 horsepower.
Are the First Two Durango Generations Still Worth Considering?
Yes, but with caveats. A second-generation Durango from 2004-2009 can be an inexpensive route into a large three-row SUV. This version adopted a fully boxed frame and seating for up to eight while improving ride, handling, and safety over the original.
Power came from your choice of 3.7-liter V6, 4.7-liter V8, and 5.7-liter V8 engines. Dodge also sold a hybrid briefly in 2009, which paired the 5.7-liter V8 with two electric motors for a combined 400 horsepower, included standard AWD, and improved city fuel economy by approximately 5 mpg.
The 1998-2003 Durango is even more truck-like. Based on the Dodge Dakota platform, it offered seven-passenger seating and several V6 and V8 engines.
The drawback with both generations is simply how old they are. Low-mileage second-generation examples in good condition are increasingly difficult to find, and models with more than 150,000 miles require especially careful inspection.
How Much Towing Muscle Does a Used Durango Have?
The answer depends heavily on what's under the hood. A third-generation Durango with the Pentastar V6 can pull as much as 6,200 pounds, while many AWD V8 versions pull up to 7,400 pounds. A properly equipped V8 Durango can handle up to 8,700 pounds. The earlier generations aren't lightweights, either. Second-generation models can tow as much as 7,400 pounds.
Do You Need a V6, R/T, SRT, or Hellcat?
For ordinary family driving, the V6 provides the most sensible balance of power, fuel economy, and towing ability. AWD is available if you need more traction, and upper trims include second-row captain's chairs, heated rear seats, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and upgraded Alpine or Harman Kardon audio.
The R/T moves the Durango in a more performance-oriented direction. An available performance package adds Brembo brakes, adaptive suspension, SRT-tuned steering, and 20-inch wheels. The SRT 392 and Hellcat are 475- and 710-hp V8s that turn the three-row Durango into a genuine performance SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Dodge Durango have three rows?
Third-generation models offer three-row seating, which became standard equipment on the 2022 SXT. The second generation could accommodate up to eight passengers.
When did the Durango get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Both smartphone-integration systems were added for the 2018 model year.
How powerful is a Durango Hellcat?
The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 produces 710 horsepower. The Hellcat debuted for 2021, disappeared for 2022, and returned for 2023.
Was a hybrid Durango ever sold?
Yes. Dodge briefly offered one in 2009 with a 5.7-liter V8, two electric motors, standard AWD, and 400 horsepower.
Dodge Durango Generations Compared
| Gen |
Years |
Powertrains |
What Used Buyers Should Know |
| First |
1998-2003 |
V6 and V8 gas engines |
Oldest and hardest to recommend; condition and mileage are especially important |
| Second |
2004-2009 |
V6, V8, brief hybrid option |
More spacious and refined than first gen, but finding a low-mileage example can be difficult |
| Third |
2011-current |
3.6L V6 and multiple V8s |
Best generation for most shoppers; 2014-2018 and 2022-2024 are the strongest years to target |
What Deserves Extra Attention During a Test Drive?
With an older Durango, condition matters at least as much as model year. Look closely at the maintenance records and mileage, and pay attention to how the engine, transmission, steering, suspension, and brakes behave.
A newer Durango has more electronics to check. Try the touchscreen, cameras, smartphone connectivity, climate controls, power liftgate, heated seats, and any driver-assistance features fitted to the vehicle. On AWD models, make sure the system operates properly.
Performance models also deserve an inspection for signs of hard use, while a Durango purchased for towing should have its exact tow rating and equipment verified.
Put the Durango on Your Shopping List
Few used three-row SUVs offer the Durango's range of V6 and V8 choices along with its towing ability. Stop by Alan Jay Automotive Group to compare our used SUVs and see which Durango matches what you're looking for. We've got you covered. It's the Alan Jay Way!