2004 Dodge Durango

Durango's second-row passengers get their own climate controls and an available DVD entertainment system.

Inside this spacious cockpit, a new instrument cluster has a large, centrally located speedometer flanked by white-faced gauges similar to those in Dodge performance vehicles. One handy feature is a large, open "fast food" bin at the base of the center stack for whatever you want to keep within easy reach.


Durango's second-row passengers get their own climate controls and an available DVD entertainment system. The reclining middle seats flip and fold forward for easy third-row access, the (optional) 50/50 split third-row folds down flat, and the distance between the rear wheelhouses has been stretched more than three inches to a full 48 inches.


The '04 Durango's new purpose-designed SUV platform (not shared with any pickup) features a torsionally stiff, fully hydroformed frame; independent front suspension; coil-spring, solid-axle rear suspension; and rack-and-pinion steering. It delivers a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride along with better than average handling for a large "midsize" SUV. A Watt linkage system tightly controls rear axle movement, centering the axle and reducing rear-end skate over rough surfaces, while an available new traction control system and full-time four-wheel drive improve its capabilities both on- and off-road.


V-8 Durangos also have a "Tow/Haul" transmission that gives crisper shifts and reduced gear searching by holding the lower gear longer when towing. It also downshifts to a lower gear on downhill runs to take advantage of engine compression braking.

All three '04 engines carry the Dodge "Magnum" family moniker, and all are more fuel efficient than previous versions.

Three trim levels—ST, SLT and a new Limited package—are offered for 2004. Newly available are a UConnect hands-free communications system that can recognize up to seven different Bluetooth (advanced wireless technology)-equipped cellular phones, and responds to voice commands using the audio system's speakers and a microphone in the rearview mirror. A new nine-speaker, 384-watt Infinity sound system with Ceramic Metal Matrix speakers and a subwoofer is optional, as is SIRIUS Satellite Digital Radio.