Dodge's iconic muscle SUV serves up raw power and bold design
Raw power and bold design have been traditional hallmarks for the Dodge Durango, one of America’s most recognizable SUVs. For 2023, the Dodge Durango is back and more impressive than ever. Today’s HendrickCars.com blog looks at America’s muscular -- yet practical -- SUV.
The 2023 version is instantly recognizable with its wide stance, sculpted exterior and signature crosshair grille that exudes a bold design and impressive powerplant. Many of the cues that also define Dodge’s popular lineup of muscle cars, appropriate considering the re-introduction of the Hemi-powered Durango SRT Hellcat.
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As many enthusiasts know, the Hellcat is an exclamation point vehicle, especially with its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 710 horsepower at 645-foot pounds of torque. First introduced in 2021 as the brand’s halo muscle SUV, the Durango Hellcat not only peaks onlooker interest by going 0-to-60 mph in 3.5 seconds(!) – its striking stance raises a few eyebrows as well.
“The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat has generated a crazy amount of enthusiasm and demand since it was introduced in 2020 -- we even extended its initial production run -- so it seemed appropriate to bring back the most powerful SUV ever as part of our historic 2023 model-year Dodge lineup,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand chief executive officer – Stellantis. “Muscle enthusiasts also have families, and the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat can get those families where they want to go and has the ability to tow 8,700 pounds.”
Sophisticated engine operations and dedicated cooling circuits for the supercharger highlight the Hellcat’s power management. Integrated electronic bypass regulates boost pressure while a forged steel crankshaft and specially tuned damper help with reliability at high rpms (tested at 13,000). Externally, the SRT Hellcats cold-air scoop is both attractive and functional, helping feed the supercharger and throttle body.
The 2023 SRT Hellcat reintroduction expanded an overall model portfolio that already included the base SXT, GT, R/T, Citadel and SRT 392. Now standard, every Durango is outfit with heated front seats, U-Connect 5 and an available 10.1-inch touchscreen, as the market continues to evolve its demand for luxury amenities.
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A robust 392-cubic inch, 475-horsepower Hemi V8 powers the SRT 392 Durango model, while a 5.7-liter V8 is standard in the R/T and available in the Citadel. The more fuel-efficient V6 engine comes standard in the Citadel, GT and SXT models, while fuel-saver mode promotes cylinder deactivation in V8, a seamless alternate between full power and four-cylinder mode when needed.
Dodge’s eight-speed transmission built standard to maximize shift points, while the traditional two-wheel drive drivetrain offers a class-defining level of efficiency. Available AWD is balanced at all four corners, grounded by the vehicle’s 50-50 weight distribution and properly distributed traction technology. The vehicle provides a nice combination of power and drivability.
Leaning Forward
Design cues are derived from the forward-leaning Charger widebody concept and distinct front fascia, where LED headlights, LED daytime running lamp, iconic grill, rear spoiler, a variety of wheel options and sculpted hood help it stand out from the competition. The LEDs are slim for what Dodge describes as a more ‘sinister’ look, while fog lamps are positioned a bit higher for a more alert and aggressive feel. A Sunroof comes standard for the Citadel, and optional on all other models.
Aggressiveness is also offered in the personalized ‘racing stripes’ that are available. Coming in Sterling Silver, Bright Blue and Gunmetal Low Gloss, drivers can show off their affinity for speed with the dual striping placed on the basecoat of the R/T, GT and SRT models. Additional features include numerous wheel designs, including polished aluminum 20-inch rims and red-painted brakes that hearken many back to the muscle car era. Iconic badging is available on the R/T and Hellcat versions, while the specially designed roof rack is capable of holding up to 150 pounds of cargo for those wanting that option.
Interior Upgrades; Lots of Tech Too!
Attention to detail and high-quality materials greet passengers every time they enter the new Durango. The cabin can be configured to hold up to seven passengers, while leather upholstery, premium accents, materials and an intuitive infotainment system highlight what’s available. Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide standard entertainment options.
A driver-centric cockpit is designed for performance, while 10.1-inch screens and gauges are angled ergonomically to capture the driver. Families can also configure the cabin any way they want, with 50 different options to maneuver seating best fitting the moment with up to 85.1 cubic feet of maximum space available. Heated and ventilated power front seats, including four way power lumbar for an extra level of comfort, and a second-row center console is available in the Citadel and SRT models with USB ports and 115-volt outlet.
Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and blind-spot warning help give the Durango the safety features most demand in the market today.
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The Dodge Durango is among the many SUVs that are eligible for Hendrick Automotive Group’s “No Payments Until 2024 on SUVs” sales event.
Get into your muscle SUV today!
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