DaimlerChrysler needs a hit. It thus hopes that its redesigned
2004 Dodge Durango will help it generate much-needed sales.
DaimlerChrysler's struggling Chrysler group comes out with new models next year, including the large rear-drive Chrysler 300C sedan and Magnum station wagon. But they're months away, and DaimlerChrysler needs more action right now.
"DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler group [Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep nameplates] has an image problem and is under close scrutiny by the media and analysts,'' said analyst Ray Windecker of Michigan's American Autodatum. "It needs an outstanding vehicle to break the image of being average.''
It's difficult to predict the success of the new Durango in the current crowded, competitive sport-utility market, said David Cole, chairman of the Center for Automotive Research in Michigan.
"The Durango has a good chance of being an important product for DaimlerChrysler,'' Cole said. "It must make money and sell in high volumes. It also must make a sustaining contribution, unlike the Chrysler PT Cruiser. That one came out of the box like a shot and then faded, and that kind of a situation is a problem.''
The original Durango remained basically unchanged since its 1998 introduction, while more refined Japanese sport-utes from Toyota, Honda and Nissan stole buyers from the Chrysler group. General Motors and Ford also have taken away truck sales from the group.
The new Durango resembles its predecessor but has a more muscular appearance. It offers Chrysler's iconic, potent Hemi V-8 with its power-producing hemispherical combustion chambers.
There's a new 3.7-liter, 210-horsepower V-6 standard for rear-drive models. It's generally meant to keep the Durango's price down. The other engines are a 4.7-liter V-8 for four-wheel-drive models. It has 230 horsepower and a lot more torque than the V-6.
The 5.7-liter, 335-horsepower Hemi V-8 costs $895 extra for the mid-range Durango SLT and high-line Limited versions. My test $30,945 four-wheel-drive Durango SLT had the 4.7 V-8, which provided lively acceleration.
The V-6 is hooked to a four-speed automatic transmission, while the two V-8s work with a responsive five-speed automatic.
Even the base Durango ST comes with rear- or four-wheel drive, which allows tough off-road driving.
Fuel economy isn't a strong point with any of the engines because the Durango is heavy, starting at 4,671 pounds. My test Durango was rated at an estimated 14 mpg in the city and 18 on highways.
The new truck is larger, roomier and more comfortable than its predecessor -- thanks partly to stiffer construction and a better suspension. Steering, braking, ride and handling are generally quite good for a big, rugged sport-ute.
Traction control is newly optional for $200 for the SLT and Limited, while a rear seat DVD entertainment system costs $1,150. Adjustable pedals are standard on the Limited and cost $120 for the SLT.
The Durango's wheelbase is up three inches to 119.2 inches, while overall length has been increased 7.3 inches and width is up nearly five inches. The new Durango also is slightly higher.
Meanwhile, base prices are hundreds of dollars lower, ranging from $25,920 to $34,255.
The first-generation Durango was based on the Dodge Dakota pickup truck chassis. It had a third-row seat, which helped attract many young families. Some 52 percent of buyers have been women, who have liked its generally convenient size. Like its predecessor, the new Durango is sized between mid-size and full-size sport-utilities.
An innovative split-folding third-row seat is standard for the SLT and Limited versions, but isn't offered for the ST version. Two adults can fit in that seat, although leg room is limited back there if they're tall and the seat doesn't provide enough thigh support.
The first two rows of seats offer plenty of space for tall adults. Outside door handles are large, but a rather high floor calls for extra effort to get in and out of the quiet, straightforward interior. The new white-faced gauge cluster is easy to read, and controls are within convenient reach.
The cargo area is spacious, especially with second- and third-row seatbacks folded forward. However, there isn't much cargo space when the third-row seat is in its normal position, and the rear load floor is rather high.
The twin front cupholders are sturdy, but the second-row cupholders are too low. Sound system and climate controls are commendably large.
Although overdue, the second-generation Durango has lots going for it.
2004 DODGE DURANGO
Prices
$25,920-$34,255
Likes
Larger. Roomier. More comfortable. Hemi V-8. Decent third-row seat.
Dislikes
High step-in. Marginal base V-6 engine.