2019 Dodge Durango GT AWD Review - Snow Dirt and 0-60

[@donaldwilliams2721]

Never such a thing as too much bass in a vehicle.

[@robertlamb1530]

FACTS!

[@greatray6262]

I own a Durango and the bass is very boomy. There needs to be gain and level controls to fine tune the subwoofer.

[@jojo10901]

I love it!

[@adnanamin3068]

@@greatray6262 u bought it on instalment?

[@jnj9358]

the system reminds me of my kicker

[@keshar.3309]

Bout to purchase my 3rd Durango this week!!!! I LOVE THESE TRUCKS!!!!!! *UPGRADING*

[@27Zangle]

During this generation of Durango which launched in 2010, I got married, had two kids, two parents have died, wife got into car accident, wife had many surgeries, I graduated college (almost twice now), had the best job ever, and getting ready to start a new phase of life. All this in one generation of a vehicle and two other major events happened concerning medical but this is not the place.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

There are two mistakes in this video: 1) Passenger capacity and 2) AWD description and capabilities. I'm also including a clarification regarding tow capacities and clarification about the link between Durango and Grand Cherokee. In fact, let me get that out of the way first. Not only are the Durango and Grand Cherokee made in the same plant ("Jefferson North" in Detroit). Both vehicles ARE MADE ON THE SAME ASSEMBLY LINE. I kid you not. You could see a Jeep and then next car is a Jeep and then the next car is a Durango, etc. They are made on the same line and have more than 75% common parts between them. There is a Detroit TV station video on KZbin of the Jefferson North plant showing both Grand Cherokees and Durangos marching down the line one after each other. But I digress... Let me get to Ryan's mistakes first. The GT in this video is a SIX-person occupancy because it has the optional 2nd row captain's chairs. There are only six seat belts in the vehicle he is driving. However, if you substitute the standard BENCH seat second row, the GT becomes a seven-person SUV because the second row bench can accommodate three occupants. The Durango's third row holds two-passengers only. There are only two belts. Ryan is clearly thinking of certain imported SUVs which place three belts in the third row. As for the drivetrain claims... Ryan is mistaken again. He's imagining the grip he's describing in the video. He's actually quoting the V8 capabilities, not the V6 capabilities in the Durango he's driving. Ryan is correct that the Durango's drivetrain architecture is RWD converted to AWD compared to Pacific Rim imports which are mostly FWD converted to AWD. That has to do with whether the engine is mounted longitudinally or transversely and how the transfer case is shaped and where it is positioned. What Ryan describes as being very RWDish is more the result of the front/rear weight distribution. The Durango's F/R breakdown is almost a perfect 50/50 because the engine/transmission/transfer case are all farther back behind the front wheels than in a typical FWD SUV converted to AWD. That weight distribution is what gives Durango such great handling on curves. Your typical FWD import is nose-heavy, so the rear end is a bit "loose" and wants to kick out.... that's the sensation of "oversteer". However, despite what Ryan says, the V6 shown in this video has a single speed AWD transfer case with a FIXED FULL-TIME 50-50 torque distribution front/back. It is NOT "on demand" as Ryan suggests. Power is ALWAYS being split front/back in this model. And it is ALWAYS 50/50. The transfer case is hard-linked. There is no sleeve/fork inside to release the front half-axles. There's no front/rear clutch inside to vary the ratio of power distribution front/back. The transfer case is primitive. This is why the V6 AWD CANNOT BE TOWED period. End of story! It must be flatbedded or you'll destroy the transfer case even if you lift just the front wheels or just the rear wheels. What Ryan is describing is the behavior of the AWD system in the V8 Durangos. They use a different AWD transfer case than the V6. It is borrowed from the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The V8 Durango has a two-speed transfer case with ON-DEMAND variable torque distribution front/rear with clutch packs and CAN be fully disengaged to permit towing behind an RV. As for towing a trailer: What Ryan said is true IF you get the factory-installed tow package because that includes additional engine and transmission cooling, a much stronger rear suspension with auto-leveling. And the ABS computer gets special programming to provide sway mitigation. The factory package also provides a built-in trailer braking computer plus 4-pin and 7-pin sockets at the sleeve. Don't cheap out and think you can buy an aftermarket tow hitch (or even a Mopar hitch) and still tow in excess of 6000 pounds. With a retrofit tow hitch, the Durango's tow limit drops to 3500 pounds (Dodge's number, not mine) even if the hitch is Class 4 rated to 10,000 pounds. It makes no difference that you will only tow when it's freezy cold outside, therefore you don't need the engine/transmission cooling. It doesn't matter if the trailer has its own anti-sway rods so you won't miss the ABS computer programming. It doesn't matter if you install an aftermarket braking computer, either. All that matters is that (without the special rear suspension) the Durango's tongue weight capacity drops to 350 pounds which means the tow limit is 3500 pounds.

[@DanielTojcic]

Do they not have a neutral button like the GC?

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Dan, Only those AWD Durangos with the MP3023 transfer case can be placed into neutral. There is a tiny button on the center console which you press with the tip of a ball-point pen to send the MP3023 into neutral. This feature does not exist on the six-cylinder Durangos which use the MP3010 transfer case instead.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Here's more information to help you understand. The Durangos and Grand Cherokees assembled at the Jefferson North Plant all use transfer cases made by Magna International. This is a bit different than what Dodge/Jeep do with the ZF eight-speed transmissions. Chrysler actually manufactures the ZF transmissions used in Chrysler products under license from ZF. I think they're made in Indiana. But don't hold me to that. Now, the transfer cases used in these same vehicles are actually made by Magna in Mexico. Magna used to make them in Syracuse until 2014. So if you have a Grand Cherokee or Durango with the 5.7L Hemi engine, both the engine and the transfer case came from Mexico. So what about those transfer cases? The AWD Durangos equipped with the six-cylinder Pentastar engine have an MP3010 single-speed transfer case. "MP" stands for "Magna Powertrain", the division of Magna that makes them. The MP3010 is a full-time 50/50 split which cannot be varied. Nor can the front or back axles be disengaged. At least, not in the Durango. You see, the MP3010 transfer case is actually capable of 2WD/4WD switchability, such as when it was used in the Cadillac Escalade. But Dodge does not implement all the features of the MP3010 in the Durango. So in the Pentastar Durangos, the transfer case is not "on demand". Nor can it be switched to neutral. Its only mission is to split torque front/rear 50/50 every inch of every mile. This is why a Pentastar AWD Durango MUST be flat-bedded instead of towed. Towing it with any wheels on pavement will break the transfer case. The MP3023 is a more versatile transfer case. It is also made by Magna International. It is the two-speed transfer case found on 5.7L Hemi Durangos and Grand Cherokees. The MP3023 has a wet clutch pack which allows it to vary the amount of power sent to the front wheels. At slow MPH, almost all power goes to the rear wheels (unless wheel slip is detected). At higher speeds, the computer module provides "on demand" power routing forward, based upon wheel slip and other parameters like steering direction. Now, the Grand Cherokees with this same MP3023 transfer case allow the driver to choose the preferred front/back ratio via a center console dial with labels such as "sand" and "snow". The Durango R/T implementation only permits selection of the gear ratio by the driver: "norm" and "low". For example: You would use "low" when pulling a trailered boat up the ramp and out of the water. Otherwise, you leave the transfer case alone in the Durango R/T and allow the computer module to automatically make adjustments. I have driven this transfer case and the performance is fully transparent. Anyway, the Dodge implementation of the MP3023 allows for the transfer case to be set to neutral for "flat towing", such as behind an RV. That said, conventional towing with the front or rear wheels lifted is forbidden. Only RWD Durangos are permitted to be towed conventionally.

[@natewood8124]

My wifes daughter bought a new 2018 gt, Thanks for the info you gave. She has the bench second row so yeah it seats 7 and drives very nice. I got to drive it once. Its awd as well. In 2-3 yrs I may purchase a yr old one. I currently have a 13 rogue and want something a little larger and I like the way the Durango performs. Do you have any other options for something in this class that gets decent gas mileage? I also drive 100 miles a day to, rogue has 175k and very healthy. Routine maintenance and not abused.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Nate, Fiat/Chrysler will soon be updating the Grand Cherokee/Durango base. It has been the same since Diamler Benz initially designed both back in 2009-2010 for introduction in 2011 There is both good and bad with that. The bad is the the current Durango is falling behind in terms of features and overall polish. The SRT fascia certainly helps update the otherwise humble Durango grill that's been around for two decades. The good is that just about everything on the current line of Durangos has been thoroughly wrung out. These are now very reliable vehicles, both because of design tweaks over the years... but also due to the "muscle memory" of those folks on the ass'y line at Jefferson North. They just plain make fewer mistakes. Quality of the product is quite good now.... certainly better than G/M. I went with the R/T (over the Grand Cherokee and Explorer) for its size. I haul a lot of gear. So I put the bench seat and third row down to obtain as many cubic feet as possible. But I also wanted a car with a performance suspension that is good in the corners. That is what you get with the Durango plus the factory towing package which really firms up the rear end. Some folks actually don't like the firmer ride and prefer the supple Citadel or SXT trims. Durango offers your choice of "rides". I went with the Durango over the Explorer for MPG and acceleration as well. Let me clarify the MPG part.... The turbocharged V6 of the Explorer was appealing inasmuch as you generally get good HP/torque per cylinder with the blower. But the Durango's V8 gets the same highway MPG as the twin-turbo V6 Explorer. The problem here is Explorer's six-speed transmission. It does not satisfy. And the turbo-lag is disappointing for intense city commutes with a lot of lane changes and quick decisions whether to take upper or lower deck of the George Washington Bridge. That said, if you do a lot of high-altitude driving, say ski resorts, a turbocharged engine will maintain HP above 5000 feet where the Durango's V6 or V8 will both "derate" as you climb due to thinner air. Now Explorer's interior was more refined than Durango's; not quite the match for Land Rover/Range Rover. But still sweet. That said, I found the infotainment system of Ford to be confusing and less than intuitive. Durango's UConnect is not the best. But it is logically laid-out and I only have a few nits with it. Also, for 2020, Explorer is supposed to get a brand new transmission, which may put-to-bed any performance questions folks have now. Durango and Grand Cherokee are supposed to get a complete makeover in 2021. There's talk of Grand Cherokee adopting the customers of Durango by adding a third row with a bit of a stretch so that Grand Cherokee can be had with the room of the current Durango. There's also word that Durango may be retired in favor of a revival of Wagoneer, which would be bigger than the current Durango to challenge Ford's and G/M's big brutes: Navigator and Escalade, for example. The Wagoneer would probably be body-on-frame, losing the unibody charm of the Durango. But Grand Cherokee will definitely remain unibody. What's this to you? With pressure on Fiat/Chrysler to match Ford's overhaul of Explorer, it means end-of-model line happening soon for the current Grand Cherokee and Durango. It makes no difference if both come out fresh for 2021 or whether Durango is replaced by Wagoneer altogether. If you are interested in a one-year-old vehicle with good reliability, then you might just be purchasing at the right time. When the new models emerge, that's gonna force discounting of the last Grand Cherokees and Durangos because the newer models will have more bells and whistles. So yeah. Wait another year to eighteen months before you shop. As for gas mileage of the Durango... If you are on flat highway... Durango with the V8 Hemi can reach about 23.5 MPG with a 24.5-gallon tank. That's driving at 70 MPH with ECO active so that the four-cylinder mode kicks in (where 4 cyls shut down). But if you're on a turnpike with ups and downs (Merritt Parkway or Pennsy Pike) figure 19-20 MPG simply because Durango is 5250-5350 pounds and what you gain by coasting downhill never makes up for the gas you must use lifting all that mass up the hill. In city driving, the MPG really drops with the V8. Now the V6 Pentastar does better in the city... if you let that engine shut off at red lights. Then it delivers great city MPG for something this size. On the highway, expect the same gas mileage as the V8 plus 1.5 MPG. I.e., if on flat highway, you'll get about 25. If going up and down a hilly highway, expect more like 21-21.5 MPG. Acceleration with the V8 is awesome, if you want. Use Sports Mode. I do not need the SRT to get thrills. The 5.7L Hemi kicks ass. The Pentastar is best-described as "capable". Your heart won't thump. But neither will you curse the 0-60. I drove the Pilot, Pathfinder, Highlander and Explorer before settling on the Durango. The suspension of the Pilot felt more like that of a minivan. If you like driving a boat, the Honda might be a good match It had a nice interior and lots of "stuff" for the price. By comparison, the Durango is more "Spartan" more "utilitarian". The Explorer came closest to satisfying me (of the runner-ups). One thing about Explorer that really bugged me was what to do with my left foot. The footwell on the driver's side is cramped if you come from a stick shift background and normally keep your left foot where the clutch would be. Durango is more roomy there. But that Durango left-foot parking brake pedal also irritates me. I might have seriously pondered the Explorer if the transmission had been an eight speed. That's because the local dealer only had Pentastar Durangos on the lot for me to test. So (at the time) I wasn't aware of how peppy Durango can be with the V8. When I saw a couple of "Alex on Autos" videos with the V8 Durango, I grew confident to make the purchase and the R/T has proven to be everything I'd hoped for performance-wise and handling-wise. it drives like a car on the freeway. It really does. And in snow - even with all-season tires instead of dedicated winter tires - the Durango just goes where you point without hesitation, without slip, without loss of confidence. Finally, I L-O-V-E the transmission lever of the Durango better than any other transmission selector in any SUV, period. It's even better than Grand Cherokee's knobby stem. I hate dial style. I don't like levers with the stepped slot. The Durango's shift lever is perfect, perfect, perfect. I can't think of anything I would change about it. Wellll, I do have one wish. If you manually change gears, you tip the shifter to the left which tells the transmission that you wish to determine when to shift. As it is, to downshift you push forward. To upshift you pull back. I'd prefer the opposite action. And that should have been driver-programmable on the UConnect, where you would get to choose how you want the stick to work. No such luck. BTW - the paddle shifters are good, too. I swapped out the tiny ones for the longer SRT ones and that makes a big difference. Before I forget, the steering is electric rather than hydraulic. Reviewers claim you get less "road feel" this way. I disagree. I'm fully satisfied with road feel and I consider myself fussy about handling. If you want better MPG for your commute, then you will have no choice but to try a Honda or Toyota or (perhaps) one of the South Korean brands. But I need room and I demand a sports sedan suspension. I get that with a unibody SUV and you cannot get a unibody SUV larger than Durango at this time. One more thing: The Dodge engines are pretty well known. Heck, the V8 Hemi has been around in different variations for decades. My point is that just about all mechanics will have worked on the engine before, which is what you want if you're on a road trip. Everybody's got parts for the Hemi. You're unlikely to be stranded. I've been told that the 5.7L Hemi is probably going to be phased out very soon due to MPG pressures on Chrysler. A new engine will mean growing pains as design errors won't surface until cars with the new engine reach 85,000 miles. This is why I like the tried-and-true Hemi even though the MPG isn't great. It's been thoroughly shaken out by other customers. I gain by their experiences pushing Dodge to improve the engine long before I purchased one. No more recalls for my Durango. All the mistakes have long-been corrected before my copy was delivered.

[@richardmahoney9415]

I know a lot of people with Durango’s and they all love the bass a lot of people that’s the reason they got it over other options is the entertainment and audio system. Us younger folk like the bass lol 😂

[@AlienCreatureThing]

Fr, and it’s not like you can’t change the audio settings. That’s such a dumb complaint

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Actually, you CAN turn traction control completely off. Press and HOLD the button for 5 seconds and that tells Durango you really mean "100% off" A quick tap of the button merely reduces the amount of automatic safety overrides. Ordinary ABS and traction control remains. But antisway is disabled, along with collision avoidance, etc. If you want to burn out or drift, you must hold the button for 5 seconds.

[@duganfr]

TheCondoInRedondo I heard that before, tried it in my 18 rt. Doesn’t do anything

[@La-yt1wr]

You can just temporarily pull the fuse if you want it completely off

[@jenniferward7628]

My husband and I were trying to decide between the V6 and V8. This video really helped. Thank You.

[@truthtimetv4575]

And you choose?

[@1twobucklemytimbs]

Unless u plan on towing alot and don't mind spending extra on gas get the v6.

[@zrandy]

The only reviewer that I've ever seen that didn't like the placement of the volume up/down and track forward/back on the back of the steering wheel.

[@mji9208]

The automatic break assist engaged on me while driving at 50mph with no one in front of me. And it happened again with my wife a week later. Great looking truck for sure. But I’m at the dealership once per month. And we bought it brand new and the truck only has 14k miles on it.

[@vipergg9159]

stay away from that stuff , just unneeded complexity that you get to pay for when it breaks . You are relying too much on a computer for this stuff .

[@sophonchan4402]

Can u turn it off ?

[@johnhoover249]

I selected this video to see the 0-60 test, but it was not timed.

[@CactusJack252]

8 seconds

[@jaredlines3177]

It really bothers me that he keeps calling the Durango a “cross over.” Crossover SUVs are usually FWD biased, have smaller engines (4-6 cyl), and have a chassis based on a car. Oh and they almost never have third row seating. A full sized SUV (like the Durango) are RWD biased, usually have larger engines (6 - 8 cyl), and were once body on frame, but obviously now tend to be unibody just like everything else short of an actual truck. Oh AND they tend to have third row seating. Calling the Durango a crossover is like saying it’s on the same market as someone looking at a CR-V.

[@megabyte7047]

Jared Lines Didn’t this used to be based on the RAM frame?

[@michaeltemmen1223]

megabyte back in the 05 version. But it did horrible. But no longer based on the 1/2 ton frame. Thats why he keeps calling it a crossover. Its a new class of SUV/crossover.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

​@@megabyte7047 We're on the third generation of Durango. The first two generations were Ram-based, as you say. Daimler redesigned Durango as unibody in 2010 and production began the 2011 model year. Third gen Durango has zero relationship to Ram... outside of the drivetrain. Suspension completely different. Durango and Grand Cherokee suspensions are assembled by MOBIS. Not same for Ram.

[@GRcorolla-bt3mn]

Also it's based on the MB GLS platform which itself is an SUV . Monocoques in SUVs are stronger than the ones found in sedans. Sedans usually have a weaker monocoque to save weight and focus only on handling. Some manufacturers may still offer ladder frame chassis because of their simplicity which makes them easy to modify, add GVM upgrade kits (common here in australia) and repair.

[@Kanti12311]

all cars now days are going up toward 40K easily. wow crazy

[@TheSterlingArcher16]

Inflation and vehicle regs be a bitch lmao.

[@unknownunknowns]

Yeah but I would like to see how it compares to the Mercedes GLS and the BMW X7, as they cost at least $70K.

[@chocolatewheelchair]

It’s true

[@Duckagee]

If you're considering a Durango. Do it. You'll love it. I daily my R/T

[@frankg1905]

Title said snow. I came to see it in the snow. No snow, wasted 13 minutes. Pissed

[@الكوتشمحمدالعربي]

I go rough off-road It just need some upgrades and modifications Very reliable and bold car

[@tritchie6272]

To me getting a Durango without a V8 seems pointless. Seems to me that the V8 fun is pretty much the main reason to choose a Durango over some of the other 3 row crossovers.

[@rogerlewis196]

I agree!

[@dlt215]

If you drive it you'll think different.

[@rogerlewis196]

Dlt215...no I won’t

[@mji9208]

The 5.7 is a must. Period.

[@tonychau1983]

Some people actually tow

[@93remix]

I don't understand BIG ASS SUVs that have horsepower ratings under 300

[@Adam-om9hu]

The durango is a crossover and not a full size suv. The Tahoe is quite of bit bigger than the durango.

[@kingtvt973]

Love my 19 gt for the family but the trackhawk Jeep is my next baby

[@Joe-wyo]

Recently bought a 2018 durango GT with the V6. Living in wyoming its best to have a 4 wheel drive or AWD vehicle, especially in winter here. Ive owned a few AWDs and 4 wheel drives and i can honestly say the Durango’s AWD system is sluggish. The 08 acadia i had, had a more responsive system. The Durango does have the better V6 tho. Its braking capabilities in/on snow leave a bit to be desired. The traction control system does respond faster tho compared to some of the other vehicles ive owned which is a plus. Space is decent. For being a mid-size suv it feels a bit cramped while sitting in it and driving. The rearview mirror creates an unnecessary blide spot for how long it hangs and the overside base its attached too. Now given all this and ive only had mine for about a month, id probably rate the durango a 7 out of 10. Not sure if id ever buy another again or not. Only time will tell.

[@Moistnmeaty90]

What makes the awd sluggish? It’s always on. Full time system and none of that clutch based crap like on front wheel drive based systems.

[@strikye7]

reverse camera to the heaven 6:32

[@drivingsports]

Right after we lawn darted the Durango. 😂

[@slpsteve2618]

Nice looking, and I almost bought one last year, but NO I would not take this off road...

[@singhmannan2835]

Just got the new gt durango sounds good better than v8

[@IoanMyrorOfficiel]

Thats a review !!! Love the durango in v6 too

[@kixclusive9892]

Same here. I can convince my wife MPG isn’t that bad

[@rlgwoody8966]

Kind of a mean Kia statement, definitely a low blow and unnecessary. Their Stinger product makes 365hp/376 lb ft of torque. They can surely achieve 400hp in a Sorento or Telluride. Notice I’m referring to completely new vehicles with new engines. Can’t say the same of this Durango. Still I do think the Dodge is a pretty good vehicle. Hopefully they will invest in a new platform.

[@bbbt8090]

They need a smaller V6 with a turbo

[@pooriaghadiri9177]

Nice job. Thanks for the video. Love this car! It's a beast! Hopefully Dodge works to make a better fuel economy as seems to be like I noticed in the video compared to Honda! I was wondering to ask how's the difference between Durango's maintenance and other Japanese ones like Toyota? Is there a big difference? Oil? Servicing? Tiers? etc.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Pooria, I hope you don't mind me adding some information here. I waited to see if our host would respond so as not to be rude. But as no reply has happened, I'll offer some insight. I'm not a car reviewer. I cannot compare Durango maintenance with other brands. But I can speak to Durango maintenance. Let's begin with oil. The Pentastar (6cyl) Durangos are NOT fussy about oil. However, they do not use a conventional standalone oil filter. instead, they have a molded canister into which you place a filter element. The 5.7 Hemi (V8) Durangos use a conventional oil filter... But they're VERY fussy about the oil viscosity. That's due to the cylinder deactivation feature. When in ECO mode, the engine can shut down four of the eight cylinders. And that's where viscosity becomes critical. It's lubricating those four disabled cylinders. Dodge specifies 5-20 weight. And synthetic is preferred, although not required. You must not substitute any other "weight" without risking damage when the engine enters "variable displacement" mode. In a pinch... if you can only get a different weight of oil (say 0-20) then you must disable ECO MODE to prevent the engine from switching to four-cylinder mode as long as you have the incorrect oil running. Disable ECO until you can get the "wrong" oil drained and the "correct" oil filled. As for frequency of oil changes.... This is pretty good on the Durango regardless of engine. If you use synthetic, they let you go 10,000 miles. However, I would never let that first/fresh-from-the-factory oil change go beyond 1500 miles because that's when there's going to be a lot of tiny metal shavings. This isn't just Durango or Dodge. This applies to ANY piston engine. Now for transmission fluid... All Durangos have the ZF 8-speed transmissions. There are variations, depending upon which engine they're attached to. But the transmission is the same beast. And it is VERY fussy about the transmission fluid. It is VERY expensive, about $50 per quart. Furthermore, the procedure for checking and changing the fluid is complicated. Don't assume your home mechanic will get it right. The procedure is not rocket science. Any mechanic can do it. But the steps that must be taken to get the fluid level correct (per temperature) is tedious and time-consuming. The good news is that the ZF-designed transmission is robust... has a lot of experience, so is very reliable and the fluid doesn't need changing very often. There's no specific time-schedule. The drivetrain computer tells you when to change the oil and when to change the transmission fluid based upon your driving habits, how many miles and how many runtime hours. The ZF transmission pan incorporates four powerful magnets to grab the tiny metal shavings before they recirculate and threaten the bearings. This same transmission is also found in BMW and other brands. So it's popular and many mechanics know how to work on it.... not just Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep. However, it is expensive to service because of the intricate procedure to get the proper fluid level after draining and filling. The procedure is time-consuming and mechanics charge by the hour. Next, the transfer case: If you have an AWD version of Durango, then you have a transfer case. These are low-maintenance items. Dodge says to check the fluid every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) and replace the fluid every 120,000 miles (200,000 km). If you do a lot of off-roading (like with the Grand Cherokee) then you might have to pay attention to the transfer case. But if you're buying a Durango, then you're not off-roading over rocks. You're simply using AWD in snow and ice conditions or (maybe) dirt roads. These are not major stresses on the transfer case. So almost all Durango owners can pretty much ignore the transfer case as long as you adhere to the rules about having your Durango towed. If you have a Pentastar engine, then you have the single-speed transfer case and your Durango must never be towed. It must be flatbedded to the garage if the Durango is disabled. Nor are you permitted to flat tow a Pentastar Durango behind an RV, for example. If you have the V8 engine, then it's okay to flat-tow the Durango. The lubricant pump is driven by the rear wheels, so the transfer case is happy even with the engine off as long as the rear wheels are rolling during the tow. Let me clarify: Lubrication notwithstanding, Dodge insists that you place the transfer case in neutral before you flat tow the Durango. I'm just saying that the transfer case used in the V8 models does lubricate with the rear wheels. To my knowledge, the fluid used in the Dodge transfer cases are no different (neither cheaper nor more expensive) than the fluid used in any other transfer case. As for the engine: Neither the V6 nor V8 engines are particularly fussy or exotic. You must be careful about the coolant you use. It's not the standard glycol mixture. But it's still commonly found. Perhaps the only odd thing to mention is that the V8 uses two spark plugs per cylinder. So a change requires sixteen plugs. But they're not expensive plugs. So this is not a big deal. Access is pretty decent with the V8. The V6 requires some reaching way back to the firewall. Finally, the body: Access to the cabin air filter is just like most vehicles. You pop open the glove box and unhinge it to reach the flap covering the air filter. Changing it takes all of five minutes. The biggest nuisance has to do with changing headlamp bulbs. Access is awful. You can get to the bulb (halogen or HID) if you have skinny arms or are willing to get scraped skin. otherwise, you have to pull off stuff. The dealer charges =$300 to change the driver side headlamp. But there are videos on KZbin of amateurs showing how to do it yourself.

[@pooriaghadiri9177]

@@TheCondoInRedondo Wow. I got so impressed by your AWESOME clarification. Such a BIG BIG BIG appreciation

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

So glad to be of help in your purchase decision. Folks who think they can be happy simply by choosing the vehicle with the most cup-holders find out too late they have made a mistake. It's always best to investigate the different models before deciding.

[@TC-hs5wy]

TheCondoInRedondo hey great description. I have an ‘05 yukon but am looking at 2012-2014 version or a V8 durango. Whats the mpg like in V8? I wonder if they are better than a yukon/tahoe or worse. Wondering about price on parts, durability, longevity as i tend to drive my vehicles many many years and take very good car of them. T from Canada.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Tim MPG is a mixed bag with the Hemi On flat highway 23-24 is possible if you keep it around 70. But as soon as you roller coaster, like on Merritt Parkway or Penn Turnpike MPG drops to 19-20. It's a heavy vehicle. Up and down really hurts MPG cuz the engine cannot remain in 4 cyl mode during climbs.

[@TC-hs5wy]

is a durango with the 5.7 V8 better on gas than a Tahoe 5.3?

[@truthtimetv4575]

Yes

[@itsonlymyopinionok8115]

I put in a credit application for one today lol.. we'll see what happens in the coming days. I want an AWD 7 passenger vehicle .. need it for the winters.. tired of getting stuck in the snow.. ugh.

[@Moistnmeaty90]

What was the verdict?

[@cgrreviews7220]

great review short and sweet straight to the point....

[@natew1494]

I'd really like to know who can afford $54k plus vehicles these days?

[@Eric-rr4ee]

People either with a great career or someone working 2 jobs.

[@takm3der4amin]

Definitely getting that GT!

[@MrBmario21]

Spend the extra for an R/T

[@AlienCreatureThing]

MrBmario21 the R/T goes through gas like a bitch though

[@Mike-0201]

Unless you plan on racing it or impressing some hot woman, the 3.6 is more than enough and save a tone of gas!

[@919hey]

Needs hemi power

[@redcartiers]

Everything needs hemi power

[@darthmaul7428]

They make an rt

[@dantheman9395]

Probably to like a fishing location, camping or a picnic area. Nothing extreme.

[@bigdan1792]

So only the R/T and SRT come with the hemi in the Durango bruh they shouldnve made the GT a hemi to

[@jackiewieland1069]

I love my GT plus

[@tritchie6272]

To me a Durango without a V8 says,get something else. That in my opinion is pretty much the main thing the Durango has over the competition.

[@gabrielurrieta3130]

Thinking of trading in my car for this but mostly want it for off-roading is this vehicle good for that?

[@drivingsports]

Durango still relevant?

[@BennettParsons1]

Driving Sports TV I think it’s underrated as every other car is morphing into one, and the Durango still looks unique.

[@matty_o]

Its relevant with V8 but not v6.Otherwise highlander has more HP and pilot has huge room.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Interesting question because Fiat is wondering the same thing. There's talk in-house of making a stretch Grand Cherokee which won't be for "off road" (because the wheelbase is too long, limiting the attack angle) But a stretch GC would have the seating to satisfy Jeep customers who keep asking for a stretch Grand Cherokee with a third row. Evidently, those customers don't want a Durango. They want three-row Grand Cherokee. Grand Cherokee outsells Durango three to one. So Fiat is thinking seriously about what those customers want. There's also some discussion of whether to revive the Wagoneer brand and have an SUV to challenge Expedition/Navigator/Escalade/Yukon/etc. or whether to remission Durango (by stretching it) to attack those four brands I just mentioned. However, any SUV growing that long would almost certainly be body-on-frame which would ruin the current unibody feel of the Durango.

[@velboone6041]

@@matty_o Lies... Majority on the road I see are the V6 models..

[@michaeltemmen1223]

Vel Boone i love v8. Moreover diesels But just got a 2019 with a v6. Good power. And good mileage. And looks good too. In my opinion of course.

[@robertlamb1530]

I appreciate the subwoofer!!!

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

He doesn't mention which sound system is in his demo vehicle. If he's complaining about the bass, then he probably has the Harmon Kardon stereo. For 2018, there were three options: The "standard" Alpine system, the "Beats Audio" system and the 825-watt "Harmon Kardon" All three have a subwoofer. The Alpine and Beats delivered around 500-550 watts. For 2019, I believe the Beats system is no longer available. But if he's got the Harmon Kardon system, then having too much bass is quite possible because there is a resonance in the substructure with the windows up, which can be annoying. If you open the moonroof and all the windows, that's when you're glad to have the extra bass. Frankly, with the windows down, all three systems sound better. That's because with the windows closed, there are strong reflections which ruin the stereo imaging and it kind of "muddies" the sound. This isn't just a Durango issue. It's a problem with most car sound systems. Directionality is nearly impossible to achieve unless you place speakers in the headrests or have the volume real low. My Durango has the standard Alpine system and the bass is never abusive. And the volume is plenty loud. Folks who prefer thumpy music can opt for the Harmon Kardon package and stop complaining. It delivers bone-rattling thump. Trust me. Dodge knows their customers. They know what you want. If you pay for the beefier HK audio, Dodge is not going to let your down.

[@death6man6]

Love this honest guy.👍

[@joehiatt1992]

Im ony getting 14.1 city far short of the 18,should of went for the Hemi ,mileage is about the same

[@fushkaxmahamed7315]

I have some one 2016 white very nice car durango

[@NayakParth]

Which one is best. Honda Pilot or Dodge Durango? Regarding 3rd row, Safety and features.

[@drivingsports]

Pilot

[@vipergg9159]

Durango , Pilot looks like a soccer mom car .

[@AlienCreatureThing]

The pilot is way more reliable, the Durango just looks cooler and has more power.

[@elj.h27herrera58]

I like the hood of this Duranga would this hood fits in a 2017 Dodge Durango GT? I want to purchase one

[@truthtimetv4575]

Yes

[@Consolethumbs]

For some reason I'm just more attracted to the 2019 Acura RDX and since the Type S model is in the works with the Twin turbo V6 with 377hp with SH-AWD would be a bargain.

[@ALMX5DP]

Where did you hear this information on the Type-S?

[@haciendadad]

Nice car, but if you want to tow a toy, not the best choice. Acura doesn't seem to want to cater to that clientele.

[@ALMX5DP]

@@haciendadad Not sure their (or any other smaller luxury CUV manufacturer) clientele really tow much. I think the reason why European competitors have such prominent numbers, is that their base in Europe would tow much more often in a vehicle of this size and class since anything bigger is quite prohibitive there. I cant remember the last time I saw something of this class towing anything.

[@ge69rh]

Twin turbos = more headaches. Plus premium gas

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

If you want to wait two seconds from when you press the pedal, then yes. Twin turbo is satisfactory. I prefer immediate press-and-zoom. What I will concede is that Durango HP will suffer at altitude, whereas the twin-turbo engines of other makers pretty much compensate for the thinner air.

[@tmikea1978]

That car is bigger than explorer?

[@oklol9]

Yep, Durango seems to be a bit bigger than the Explorer

[@senseiois4208]

I would like to give a Durango to the deisal brothers to make its off road capabilities better then west coast customs for detailing inside and improve the traction control system for better all round driving then you will have a great vehicle to drive on and off road maybe that's what crysler needs to do talk to the people who actually drive there vehicles and people who drive off road and see what they want from a good all-round on and off road vehicles

[@xxmyspac]

THE TITLE SAYS 2019 DODGE DURANGO GT YET FEELS LIKE YOUR REVIEWING THE R/T NOT THE G/T

[@JorgePalmaRomero]

Why nobady talk about the included rails on the roof side of the Durango? It's handycap against its competitor's.

[@JulezWinnfield]

I'm just here to see Ryan's big prop microphone (at the 00:55 videomark). That's how we know he's a "serious" journalist........lol.

[@ryanhaines7682]

I wish u did the bill test on this

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

Love the Durango!!

[@jordyetienne8109]

buying a durango in january 2022 for my birthday :D

[@cuteboykp3437]

How fast was it 0-60??

[@E67CHope]

Why haven’t you tested the Durango on your guys new off-road test sites?

[@Moistnmeaty90]

I would suspect that Dodge no longer has a Durango in their press fleets.

[@mismilwblondy62]

What's the suspension like smooth or bumpy

[@chaosbolt66]

Too much bass? Bro, you soft as hell.

[@gsxellence]

I think they should offer a smaller version of the durango, like bringing back the nitro so that you you're getting another fun packed afford RWD CUV/SUV.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

The thinking by FCA was that Grand Cherokee would serve as the smaller Durango and Durango would serve as the three row Grand Cherokee because folks looking for a third row were not going to use such a vehicle for off roading because (to get that third row in) means forcing a longer wheelbase. And offroading demands short wheelbases to allow for good angle of attack without scraping the rear end. Jeep and Dodge did not want those two brands siphoning off the other's customers. I.e., there was no short Durango so as not to compete with Grand Cherokee. Nor was there a three-row Grand Cherokee because that's what Durango's market was. This may change dramatically for 2021. Now Dodge does make a smaller SUV. It's called "Journey". But this is a down-market product, priced to appeal to the cost-conscious customer. It is not in the same class of SUV as are Grand Cherokee and Durango. Dodge does not expect Journey to appeal to the customers who'll shop for Grand Cherokee/Durango/Pilot/Explorer/Traverse/etc. Nitro is an interesting case. Now you're speaking of very high performance, like what SRT is to Durango. The question begs whether Nitro is really just more of the same thing Trackhawk is supposed to be or whether Nitro could pull in customers to FCA that Trackhawk cannot.

[@vipergg9159]

They do , its called the Jeep Grand Cherokee , it is noticeably shorter and only a 5 seater .

[@PMpagi]

Any other SUVs offered in AWD with RWD bias and independent front and rear suspension??

[@drivingsports]

Technically that’s the 2019 Subaru Outback XT. It’s 45/55 split and independent suspension.

[@vipergg9159]

the only one i can think of is the 2020 Ford Exploder or the new Tahoes .

[@vipergg9159]

I would rather have a dash modeled after a Challenger unlike the model years 2011 -2013 which had the dash of a Grand Caravan minivan .

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Dodge heard you. The 2021 Durango gets an all new dash! Looks a lot like Challenger/Charger.

[@Mroswaldo16]

Wanna know a secret lol press and hold the traction control buttom until it turns off stability control! You will see lol. Traction control is just so u can do burn out lol

[@MrBmario21]

You should have got the R/T for what yall paid

[@kixclusive9892]

Waste much more Gas

[@MrBmario21]

@@kixclusive9892 i get 21 mpg you wont even miss the gas

[@isaacashe6404]

I have a 18 gt, kinda bummed that they put the scooped hood and srt bumper on the 19s

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

The performance hood (shown in this video) costs $1500. It is NOT standard on the 2019 GT or GT Plus The hood also fits the standard grill. If you hunt around, you might be able to find a performance hood cheap on a wreck that was rear-ended and declared "totalled". If you retrofit a performance hood, then you also need to install a $30 plastic cover which snaps on over the Engine Control Module. You need that to protect the ECM from rain which gets in through the passenger side draft vent. Perhaps "need" is too strong. But it is a good idea. Durangos that come with the performance hood get that plastic cover installed at the factory.

[@theonlyrealcbass16]

@@TheCondoInRedondo the sport hood was also a late availability OPTION on the 18

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

That tells you when the SRT stopped selling. As long as the SRT sales were strong, it would have been imprudent of Dodge to share the benefits of SRTdom with the cheap-seaters. But if SRT was proving too costly for the market, then you bring the market to the customers... thus "performance hood" availability on the lesser trims. I have inside knowledge that (as recently as last summer) Dodge was this close to bringing 700HP to Durango. Right or wrong, I was told that Dodge was preparing samples for NHTSA to crash test. That's how you can tell the difference between empty rumor and actual planning. But when the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk sales stalled, Dodge held back on release of the Durango SRT-killer. My SPECULATION is that the supercharged engine will (now) not become part of the Durango lineup before Durango is completely revamped or retired in favor of Wagoneer's revival. Let me emphasize the word "speculation" This paragraph is 100% my speculation, not anything I've heard from "inside". All I "know" is that the introduction of a 700 HP Durango stopped being hinted in 3Q18. There was thrill/enthusiasm in the shop I was talking to... and then that enthusiasm vanished last fall. That coincides with the decline in Trackhawk sales leading to heavy discounting after an enthusiastic period where dealers were charging $10000 or more PREMIUM (over sticker) for the Trackhawk. Now Trackhawks are discounted $10000 below sticker and are still not selling. This doesn't mean Trackhawk is bad. Folks who own it are not ashamed of it. They love it. Just a case of FCA's projections missing the mark. But I digress. With Durango SRT sales very slow, it was only natural for Dodge to bring the easy-to-do features down to the R/T and GT trims to fight back against Explorer, such as the cosmetics. The grille and the hood require zero re-engineering. I take that back. If you get the performance hood you do need the $30 ECM cover (which Jefferson North provides now, no separate purchase necessary). By updating the cosmetics, it buys another year or two for Dodge to release the new model. But make no mistake... the 2019 Durango is eight-year-old tech and Dodge has precious few tricks to play to keep the model relevant. The only thing going for it now is the unibody and handling. It just plain drives better than comparable SUVs.

[@j.v.martell2280]

Isaac Ashe I have the” 2018 “gt badge with the one it’s being shown, just like it blacktop

[@ginsure]

The Ford Explorer Sport loaded with a smaller sticker price is far superior. It has the features mentioned her plus power fold 3rd row seats and a twin turbo V-6 with 365 HP and 350 lb ft of torque. 0-60 is under 6 sec. It will leave this Durango in the dust

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Hardly. I drove both. They're about even. That's due to Explorer's transmission which is a handicap, not an asset. When the new Explorer arrives with the new transmission, then it will have a performance advantage. But not the current Explorer. Seriously.... A six-cylinder engine that gets 22 MPG highway? You're boasting about that? You're boasting about an 18 gallon tank versus a 24.5 gallon tank? C'mon. You wanna talk performance? Then put your Explorer with its 22 MPG up against the Durango R/T with its 22 MPG highway. 0-60 is more than a second better in the R/T. As for sticker price: you're not comparing apples/apples. Sticker was within $1000 of each other similarly configured. I priced both out when I shopped. Price was not a deciding factor. In fact, you sound like a troll rather than an objective shopper who compared actual prices of similarly-equipped models. The rear fold-down seats in Explorer were great. I played with it for ten minutes in the dealership. But then I asked myself, "Do I really fold and unfold the seats that often? Did the power feature really make a difference or do the motors just add more weight to the vehicle for something that takes five seconds and happens maybe once a week?" The power seats are nice selling feature. But in practice, it's a gimmick that only matters if you carry passengers and if you don't need the extra cargo space the Durango provides. If I was using the SUV for carpooling, then Explorer would be more competitive. But for hauling gear, the Durango holds more, end of story. It tows more, too.

[@ge69rh]

Twin turbos = more headaches, plus premium gas. No thanks.

[@vipergg9159]

Have fun replacing that turbo when it breaks and it will .

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

I've driven it. It's got loads of oversteer. Thank you, but no thanks.

[@MrZhending]

v6 durango is no point to buy.......

[@jokare4568]

The headphone nod🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@patrickneher8426]

My dad has A Dodge Durango GT plus 2020

[@p_-db9ze]

Do anyone know how to pull in the sideview mirrors on the 2019 Durango?

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

I'm pretty sure it's fully manual. You've got to reach, grasp, pull. There is no motor control to the best of my knowledge. I don't even recall that being an option when the dealer went over the possibilities with me.

[@moseslmps6261]

"even with the V-Sex" LOL

[@Ali-fk7cn]

Does the V6 drag it smoothly or strugle for it??

[@vipergg9159]

-the V6 has very decent power and is adequate in almost all circumstances unless you are towing at the limits. The V6 with factory tow will tow 6200 lbs. The 8 speed auto keeps it in the right gear and is one of the smoothest I have ever driven .

[@TheZoeguy]

U think this is way to much sub. But. Other people may prefer

[@austinfrye3389]

So is this a dad car or nah?

[@CarlosLopez-re2pp]

Exelsiors beautifull Cars forever always Amen and exelsiors video Mens, desde Quito_ Ecuador muchas gracias......

[@lotfimalta4453]

Je veux une blindé maintenant ?

[@micahlarkins9963]

No launch control?

[@drivingsports]

LC is only useful for turbo engines.

[@megabyte7047]

I had one of the original Durango’s and loved it, but it was such a gas hog.

[@robo08ify]

megabyte I agree. I had a 2002 SLT with the 5.9L Magnum and it always gave me an ‘ahem’ every time I passed a gas station. 😂

[@Mike-0201]

Me too. Had a 2000 with a 318 ( last year of 318). I was lucky if I got 11 mpg and maybe 16 hw! Lasted me till 2012 with 140K. It was great for my family of 4. Just purchased a used 2021 GT w/the 3.6. (It replaced my 2013 Charger with a 3.6). I am on week 3 and can’t believe how much I missed a Durango even thought I LOVED my Charger. So far so good. 19 mpg/23 hw. So much better than my 2000!!

[@kaliman198117ify]

Crossover? I don't think so

[@einsteincasino8539]

I don't like the price!!😳😳😳

[@AlienCreatureThing]

You can get one of these for 25-30k with less than 30k miles

[@artstar5994]

Where's the GT???

[@josephmichael1405]

Not a good review at all. False advertisement. Pretty incomplete overall. Seemed that it was done with minimal effort. Why do a video if it half ass. Damn shame because he has done some good work.

[@gsxellence]

Does this replace the R/T?

[@bryman31]

no the R/T is the v8 this is the GT v6

[@gsxellence]

@@bryman31 Oh!, thanks :)

[@duganfr]

It replaced the limited trim

[@scottwilkins]

Never a mention of the GM or Ford SUVs that are also in this class and actually better match it on ability than Honda or others.

[@joelsmithers6887]

Ford and gm can't compete, cus they're not equal in this class.

[@SpinWave]

The title of the video is 0-60 and you never say how long does it take? one needs to measure oneself? ummm. improve

[@greatray6262]

Infotainment systems in vehicles are are worthless. Most of the time your trips are so short that it's not worth the time and effort to use. The only time I've ever used my system is when I first bought the vehicle, otherwise it's more convenient to use my phone or a tablet.

[@TheCondoInRedondo]

Interesting take. My beef with the high-end optional speaker systems is that (with all the window glass) stereo imaging tends to wash out. There are just too many reflections. So, you're just wasting money. All the extra money gets you is more boom-boom from the subwoofer. If someone wants that, that's fine.

[@RCflipz360]

Wrong cockpit comparison...it's from a Charger instead Challenger..

[@Adam-om9hu]

No it's a challenger. You can tell by the shape of the side mirrors.

[@RCflipz360]

@@Adam-om9hu I said cockpit not sidemirror🤦🏻‍♂️

[@Adam-om9hu]

@@RCflipz360 i thought you were saying that the picture he showed was a charger and I was saying no it is a challenger.

[@didierlemoine6771]

Maaaaa my old citroen 2CV would do it better !

[@TheZoeguy]

Never to much sub 😆

[@coolkid7151]

Dodge 👌🏻👏🏻

[@xxmyspac]

how you get a r/T hood on that gt?

[@angrymotorman1237]

That's an option for the GT Durango now.

[@1sikvan905]

GT?? MY SRT DURANGO IS THE BEST WAY TO GO! COME CHECK IT OUT TO PROVE ME RIGHT, OH YEAH, IT ALSO GOES 0-60 IN 4.2 SECONDS!!

[@juniorcastellano6657]

I thinks it's bull s##t that the GT looks like the RT and SRT. People pay more to separate themselves from the rest.

[@ge69rh]

People pay more for performance.

[@saiyanyamaha1739]

People pay more to show off to ppl they are never going to meet

[@p.s.4326]

Обажаю эту тачку,спасла не раз!!!!

[@edmundskleimins8890]

Привет! У вас какой? У меня hemik 2015 подожду к сотки пробега. У вас есть какие-то проблемы?

[@TheMasterg32]

Wow 50k for a GT?? No thanks

[@coolkid7151]

New cars are expensive are you new here

[@michaeltemmen1223]

Certified Pre Owned. Let someone else pay for the depreciation

[@MySt0rmy]

buy t's made in the USA

[@juanpulido7468]

Súper video

[@solarfry]

Take it off-road into dirt and mud..

[@alsanchez1161]

If it’s too loud your too old. I stopped watching when you said it’s way to much bass. Last review I watch from this channel

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

The reviewer is correct. WAY too much bass. Only loser drama-queens announce their departure. JUST LEAVE!!!

[@alsanchez1161]

@@user-cx2bk6pm2f lmao who said you got to blare it with the windows down. its obvious you just hate your life and look for arguments for self worth have fun with that.

[@tonychau1983]

@@user-cx2bk6pm2f 👍

[@tonychau1983]

@@user-cx2bk6pm2f q

[@Chocolate.barbie444]

Nice

[@muayadmuhsin9427]

Grear

[@albertgomez1884]

40k.......for a V6.....lol...get outta here...my Durango R/T eats these

[@Natethegreat200c]

Nothing wrong with the v6 tbh. Not everyone wants the v8.

[@albertgomez1884]

@@Natethegreat200c people buy the dodge for the power. That's what's in their name. 40k for a v6 or 38k for a v8 hemi (which is what I got mine for out the door) yeah v8 r/t boy😁

[@albertgomez1884]

@@Natethegreat200c stick with a Honda pilot then

[@Natethegreat200c]

Albert Gomez lol no I only by Chrysler. But I’m saying the engine itself is good. I have it in my chrysler 200 and I smoke r/t Durango’s and trail right behind a 300 5.7. But you’re right it is right to at least get a 5.7 with the Durango but that fuel economy is horrible and that “cylinder deactivation “ will fail and it makes the car rough I heard and you can tell when it switches.