2012 Dodge Durango

Thanks chiefly to its welcoming interior and athletic yet comfortable handling, the 2012 Dodge Durango is fully competitive against top crossover SUVs. For 2012, the Dodge Durango gets a few minor improvements. Particularly undoubtedly are a six-speed automatic transmission for V8 models, newly available second-row captain’s chairs and revised trim levels.

Needless to say, this year’s 2012 Dodge Durango provides the same positive qualities opting for it. We’re particularly partial to its sleek styling and upscale cabin. Like a large crossover SUV, the Durango can seat as many as seven passengers. It is additionally pretty simple to maneuver and rides well on the highway and city streets.

Should you not require such heavy hauling ability but do need three rows of adult-friendly seats, and then there are other worthwhile options to consider. Most notable are definitely the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Flex, Mazda CX-9 and also the Durango’s most obvious competitor, the recently redesigned Ford Explorer. Honestly, there isn’t a bad one inch the bunch, in case you are considering an automobile with sharp styling, a lot of features and recreational abilities, the Durango is a superb choice.

2012 Dodge Durango R/T SUV

The 2012 Dodge Durango large crossover SUV can be purchased in four trim levels: base SXT, midlevel Crew, performance-themed R/T and top-of-the-line Citadel.

Standard equipment within the SXT includes 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, foglamps, heated sideview mirrors, full power accessories, cruise control, tri-zone automatic heating and cooling (includes separate rear air-conditioning), a tilt-and-telescoping controls, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a 60/40-split-folding and reclining second-row seat, a 50/50-split-folding third-row seat along with a six-speaker speakers that has a CD player, satellite radio as well as an auxiliary audio jack.

2012 Dodge Durango Crew SUV

The Crew adds remote ignition, an electricity liftgate, power-folding outside mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a cargo compartment cover, power front seats (eight-way driver, six-way passenger), driver-seat memory functions, a leather-wrapped leader, keyless ignition/entry, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a 115-volt power outlet, Bluetooth (phone and streaming audio) and an upgraded nine-speaker speakers that has a touchscreen display, a USB/iPod interface, digital music storage and voice activation.

The R/T essentially includes the upgrades of the Crew (minus the parking sensors and rearview camera) along with a V8 engine, 20-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, body-color accents, xenon headlights, faux-suede upholstery and power driver lumbar support.

Improving in the Crew towards the Citadel adds automatic xenon headlamps, 20-inch wheels, a chrome grille insert, automatic wipers, a sunroof, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated front and back seats, an eight-way power passenger seat, a power-adjustable and heated controls, adaptive cruise control plus a navigation system with Sirius Travel Link.

2012 Dodge Durango SXT SUV

The 2012 Dodge Durango exists in a number of powertrain combinations. You can choose rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Apart from the V6-only SXT, rear-drive versions offer a choice of V6 or V8 power. The full-time AWD system is only obtainable while using V6 engine. The on-demand 4WD system features dual-range gearing (that makes it more capable on very complicated terrain) and requires the V8 engine.

Standard on just about the R/T would be the 3.6-liter V6 engine, which is rated at 290 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined with the V6 with all-wheel drive.

Antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, trailer sway control, front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are standard on every 2012 Dodge Durango. The Citadel also is sold with blind-spot monitoring and cross-path warning systems, that happen to be both optional on the Crew.

Modern and functional, the 2012 Dodge Durango’s cabin has become built with family-style versatility under consideration. No matter what trim level, the look is attractive and features upscale materials.

With the second- and third-row seats folded down, the Durango can transport nearly 84.5 cubic feet of cargo. This is the respectable amount, but competing large crossover SUVs can provide a lot more rear-passenger and/or cargo space.

The 2012 Dodge Durango is related to the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and yes it shows in the way this nearly 5,000-pound vehicle drives later on. The Durango feels controlled in almost any driving situation, plus the responsive nature on the steering makes all the Durango an easy task to maneuver.

Low-end torque is not a strong suit of the V6, but once the 2012 Dodge Durango is moving, the engine pulls respectably. Midrange acceleration is adequate for passing and merging as wll as there’s little reason to sweat the additional second or two it will require the Durango to attain 60 mph as compared to its fleeter rivals. Needless to say, the V8 offers brisk all-around performance. On a long interstate cruise, the Durango supplies a quiet and relaxed cabin environment.