2003 Dodge Durango R/T

The 4WD system standard on R/T models can remain engaged on dry pavement. The dashboard switch is convenient and easy to use.

For the soft-road excursion we took in the R/T, we were pleased to find the skid-plating did its job, protecting the chassis from the berms we climbed over. Ground clearance is not as lofty as some SUVs, but the plus side is that Durango is easier for egress and ingress. Dodge has always maintained that the Durango is a smart-sized sport-ute. Yes, you'll encounter some of the usual SUV body lean and nose plowing in fast turns, and the steering feel is vague and too forgiving. On the other hand, the Durango is not as ponderous as a full-size SUV, and directional stability is good. The new four-wheel disc brakes are an improvement over the old disc/drum setup, providing better pedal feel and more-consistent performance in repeated stops.


The Durango is both garageable and handy in traffic. We didn't feel overwhelmed, and we didn't overwhelm compact cars next to us (so we don't think their drivers will complain to Congress about our choice of vehicles). The double-wishbone with torsion-bar front suspension and the rear suspension's solid axle with leaf springs soaked up potholes when darting around town, but at speed the ride was harsher. On the freeway, the ride feels stiff and choppy when the vehicle is lightly loaded. It gets somewhat smoother with 2.3 kids on board and some baggage in the back. That's the typical tradeoff you get with a more rugged, truck-based chassis. But at least this SUV sticks to its principles. For that, it gets our vote. (www.dodge.com)