Dodge’s current generation of mid-size SUV has been around for more than a decade. So, it’s no wonder that we’ve been getting a lot of reports so far, which are suggesting redesign or discontinuation. However, the current model still marks pretty good sales numbers. Also, it’s been updated for the 2021 model years and these two are clear indicators that the current model is about to remain for some more time. We expect that the 2023 Dodge Durango will continue in the same way, without more important changes.
So, you may count on a pretty rugged SUV, which offers pretty impressive performances, thanks to muscular V8 engines, along with great towing capacity. Furthermore, we like its spacious and comfortable cabin, while the infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. On the other hand, the main complaints go to poor fuel economy and not-so-engaging handling.
Considering that bigger changes probably won’t happen in the next year, the 2023 Dodge Durango should hit the market sometime in the last quarter of the year.
2023 Dodge Durango Design
Design-wise, the 2023 Dodge Durango will continue in the same way. Despite the 2021 update, this is still the same vehicle from 2011, which rides on the same platform as the previous-generation Grand Cherokee. Therefore, the Durango is heavy and not so easy to drive. On the other hand, it is a pretty capable machine, with a max towing capacity of up to 8.700 pounds. At the same time, the ride is smooth and comfortable.
Visually, the next year’s model will carry on with the same styling, including the 2021 updates, which have brought new bumpers and a few more revisions. This SUV features mostly classic design solutions and that’s probably the reason why it ages so well and still looks attractive.
Interior
The same thing goes for interior design. The 2021 update has brought a few improvements, such as a new infotainment screen and some dashboard revisions. All in all, the cabin looks decent enough to attract buyers and offers a solid combination of durable yet fine materials. The build quality is decent as well.
Still, the strongest point of this cabin is the amount of space. Of course, we are talking about a three-row SUV, which accommodates two adults in the third row pretty easily, which usually isn’t the case in this segment. The front seats are massive and supportive, while the driving position is very good. The second row also accommodates taller passengers with ease.
The cargo area offers around 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third row, 43.3 cubic feet with these seats folded, and 85.1 cubic feet of the total cargo volume. Those are slightly above-average numbers for the segment.
Features
We don’t believe that this aspect could bring anything more important, though some novelties are possible. Base models should come equipped with keyless entry, push-button start, an 8.4-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, a six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, and four USB ports. The list of upgrades should include remote start, sunroof, a 10.1-inch touch screen, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, wireless device charging, HD Radio, nine- and 19-speaker sound systems, two additional USB ports, and a Blu-ray/DVD player with two displays.
The same thing is with safety features. All models should come standard with a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. On the other hand, count on front parking sensors, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist and automatic high beams on the list of options.
2023 Dodge Durango Engines
Things under the hood definitely won’t change. So, base models will continue with a good-old 3.6-liter V6, which puts out around 293 horsepower. While that’s more than enough for daily commuting, we find V8 options a much better choice. One of them is a smaller 5.7-liter HEMI V8, which puts out around 360 horsepower. The other one is the legendary 6.4-liter HEMI V8, which puts out 475 horsepower. The Hellcat engine was discontinued last year.
All engines come in pair with excellent 8-speed automatic transmission. When it comes to fuel economy, base V6 models are good for 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. That’s OK for the segment. On the other hand, V8 models are quite thirsty. The smaller one returns 14 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, while the 6.4-liter unit is good for about 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
2023 Dodge Durango Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Dodge Durango will arrive sometime in the last quarter of the year, with a starting price of around 35.000 dollars. Key competitors are GMC Acadia, Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas
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