What Is It?
Dodge Durango R/T
What's Special About It?
Although labeled as a concept, this Durango is a close approximation of what the next Durango will look like when it debuts as a production model early in 2004. The styling is meant to give it an edge in a segment characterized by otherwise bland, boxy sport-utes that are anything but sporty. Along with the daring styling, the Durango concept also features a 345-horsepower Hemi V8 and a five-speed automatic transmission.
In order to make the interior as class-leading as the drivetrain, Dodge engineers increased the Durango's length by three inches, width by four and a half inches and height by three inches. The result is a 15-percent increase in overall interior capacity and the ability to carry the ubiquitous 4-by-8-foot sheet of plywood. Despite sticking with a more traditional straight axle rear suspension setup, the Durango will still offer a fold-flat third-row seat.
Why Should You Care?
The Durango has always been a competent, roomy and sharp-looking SUV. But without a major redesign in years it has recently fell behind many of its major competitors in many key categories. The addition of Hemi power, more interior space and improved ergonomics could make the Durango a legitimate class leader once again. — Ed Hellwig
Dodge Durango R/T
What's Special About It?
Although labeled as a concept, this Durango is a close approximation of what the next Durango will look like when it debuts as a production model early in 2004. The styling is meant to give it an edge in a segment characterized by otherwise bland, boxy sport-utes that are anything but sporty. Along with the daring styling, the Durango concept also features a 345-horsepower Hemi V8 and a five-speed automatic transmission.
In order to make the interior as class-leading as the drivetrain, Dodge engineers increased the Durango's length by three inches, width by four and a half inches and height by three inches. The result is a 15-percent increase in overall interior capacity and the ability to carry the ubiquitous 4-by-8-foot sheet of plywood. Despite sticking with a more traditional straight axle rear suspension setup, the Durango will still offer a fold-flat third-row seat.
Why Should You Care?
The Durango has always been a competent, roomy and sharp-looking SUV. But without a major redesign in years it has recently fell behind many of its major competitors in many key categories. The addition of Hemi power, more interior space and improved ergonomics could make the Durango a legitimate class leader once again. — Ed Hellwig
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