The 2021 Dodge Durango is a midsize SUV capable of seating up to seven occupants. But that’s just one aspect of a range that runs from practical — with a maximum tow rating of 8,700 pounds and 8.1 inches of ground clearance — to practically insane, thanks to a supercharged V8 in the latest addition. The new Durango SRT Hellcat is more powerful than any other production SUV. And that includes the esoteric Lamborghini Urus. Dodge is making the Hellcat for this year only. But even the penultimate Durango, the SRT 392, is an American-brand SUV that can run with the likes of BMW, Porsche, and Audi — on the track, at least. Unlike the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander, the Durango’s driver aids are optional, not standard. But despite the Durango’s advancing age, it still has many things families look for in an SUV — like comfort, style, and safety. Not stellar resale values, though. Although the V8 engines in the 2021 Durango are more newsworthy, the entry-level V6 works well, delivering a refined 293 horsepower and capable of towing 6,400 pounds. It’s complemented by an 8-speed automatic transmission that only occasionally “hunts” for the right gear. On the other hand, these V8 engines distinguish the Durango. The 5.7-liter version generates 360 horsepower for superb acceleration with a resonant rumble and a tow rating of 7,400 pounds. The 6.4-liter in the SRT 392 develops 475 horsepower — good enough to sprint from standstill to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds or tow 8,700 pounds. The new-for-2021 Durango SRT Hellcat has the kind of power and acceleration that could embarrass several sports cars. Dodge markets it as the most powerful SUV ever. Standstill to 60 mph is taken care of in a fleeting 3.5 seconds before hitting a top speed of 180 mph. Grip from the Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires is enhanced by alloy wheels that are 10 inches wide. It is every bit as stable in the corners as it is fast on the straightaways. DURANGO SRT Not as practical as the V6 models, the 6-seater SRT versions are still accommodating for people and cargo. But crazy fast acceleration times, sharp handling, and glorious-sounding exhausts have no equal from Honda, Nissan, or Toyota. UCONNECT 5 As one of the most complete and user-friendly infotainment systems, the 2021 Durango’s updated Uconnect 5 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, intuitive controls, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Also incorporated into the touchscreen are controls for the heated seats/steering wheel, navigation, and climate. Dodge says Unconnect 5 is five times faster than Uconnect 4. It’s standard in the four higher trims. This year sees some changes to the cabin with a redesigned dashboard and center console. The infotainment touchscreen is angled slightly more toward the driver, and the center stack is thinner while offering better stowage than before. It’s pleasant inside every 2021 Durango, with an air that seems higher in quality than many rivals, the deluxe Citadel trim in particular. This is the version with heated/ventilated front seats and heated 2nd-row seats. The SRT versions have a flat-bottomed steering wheel as standard, with paddle shifters mounted beneath. Most trim levels offer captain’s chairs to replace the bench in the second row, which also make it easier to access the third row and use booster seats. Cargo space when all three rows are in place is useful at 17.2 cubic feet, expanding to 43.3 and then 85.1. The front passenger seat folds down to take long items. Citadel and SRT versions may also be specified with simulated suede headliners. This year’s revisions also affect the Durango’s exterior. Dodge calls the front end more “aggressive” — whatever that means. But the update also brings some tangible changes such as full LED headlights/daytime running lights, sculpted hood, revised grille, new rear spoiler, and fresh designs of alloy wheels. The 2021 Durango SRT Hellcat receives its own aerodynamic additions, but even the most basic SXT looks tough. Dodge isn’t shy about making strong statements, such as the Durango’s taillight design that looks like a racetrack, massive wheel/tire combinations, plus bold paint colors and graphic decals. Entry-level SXT trim has seating for five, 3-zone automatic climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, V6 engine (with a Sport mode), load-leveling rear shock absorbers, heated side mirrors, keyless entry/ignition, smartphone integration, and an infotainment system that includes satellite radio, four USB ports, Bluetooth, auxiliary audio input, six speakers and an 8.4-inch touchscreen. Driver aids like blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision mitigation are not standard, and that’s disappointing. Upper trim levels bring more equipment, such as automatic high beams, powered tailgate, sunroof, navigation, Nappa leather upholstery, and more. Versions with V8 engines get beefier brakes, while SRT versions have bespoke sport-tuned suspensions. The 2021 SRT 392 has its suspension upgraded to mirror the Hellcat’s. Buyers of SRT models also receive a day’s tuition in performance driving. Some options are available in the base Durango SXT, such as a sunroof, all-wheel drive with low-range gearing, roof rails, cosmetic additions, 20-inch alloy wheels, satellite radio, trailer-prep package, and rear parking sensors. However, the higher trims are eligible for more extras, including an 825-watt/19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a 10.1-inch infotainment system with navigation, Blu-ray/DVD rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assistance. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is optional throughout the range. For towing, there’s a 220-amp alternator, heavy-duty engine oil cooler, and Class IV hitch receiver. Many newer midsize SUVs have moved to turbocharged 4-cylinder engines as their base offerings. The 2021 Durango starts off with the gutsy 3.6-liter V6. It has excellent responses, can tow up to 6,400 pounds and returns the best fuel economy of the Durango’s propulsion choices. The V8s have a different agenda. A 5.7-liter V8 is standard in the R/T and optional in the Citadel, bringing 360 horsepower. It’s ideal for those requiring power and performance without breaking the bank entirely. The massive 6.4-liter V8 in the all-wheel-drive SRT 392 develops 475 horsepower. This engine made last year’s Durango one of the most powerful SUVs in its class. But that was before Dodge swapped in a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 developing a stupendous 710 horsepower to complete an SRT Hellcat trio with the Challenger coupe and Charger sedan. All but the SRT versions have rear-wheel drive (RWD) with the option of three different all-wheel drive (AWD) systems. Models with a V8 and AWD also feature a low-range transfer case with a neutral position. An 8-speed automatic transmission handles gear changes for all engines. 3.6-liter V6 293 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm (single exhaust) 295 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm (dual exhaust, GT and Citadel) 260 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26 mpg (RWD), 18/25 mpg (AWD) 5.7-liter V8 360 horsepower @ 5,150 rpm 390 lb-ft of torque @ 4,250 rpm EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/22 mpg (RWD & AWD) 6.4-liter V8 475 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm 470 lb-ft of torque @ 4,300 rpm EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/19 mpg 6.2-liter supercharged V8 710 horsepower @ 6,100 rpm 640 lb-ft of torque @ 4,300 rpm EPA city/highway fuel economy: est 11/17 mpg N/A The entry-level Durango SXT starts at $31,765. The GT model comes in at just under $36,000. Moving up to the V8 realm of the Durango R/T begins at $45,305, while the extra elegance of the Citadel version takes off at $47,805. Adding all-wheel drive to any of these costs an extra $2,600. Destination charges stand at $1,495 for each. The SRT 392 launches at $62,995, while and the SRT Hellcat starts at $80,995. That’s still a relative bargain compared with something like a BMW X5 M with 600 horsepower and a price in excess of $100,000. A V6-powered 2021 Durango lives in the same fiscal ballpark as the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer. Check out the Fair Purchase Price on KBB.com to find out what buyers in your area are paying for their new Durango SUV. From the perspective of resale values, the Durango won’t perform as well as a Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. It’s pretty much the same as the Ford Explorer and, over time, slightly better than the Chevrolet Traverse.

The 2021 Dodge Durango fresh has basically addressed all minor complaints I had. The interior is up there with the most competitive in the segment, LED headlights, revised suspension, 10" UConnect 5, and more. Combined with the R/T, SRT, and HC in particular, this is one well-rounded SUV that is able to check a lot of important boxes. Everything from performance to practical utility. It has 3 rows, lots of interior room, good reliability, and is easier to maneuver than a full-size SUV. Opt for one of the V8 engines and you can have all of the performance you could ever want. The only real negatives are a somewhat dated exterior due to its old platform and fuel economy isn't the best with the larger 6.2 and 6.4l V8 engines. But it's a reasonable compromise for the excellent performance and V8 rumble. The Durango also hasn't had the most amazing reliability track record, but my personal experience with the latest models has been excellent. It seems they've addressed the big issues. I've had countless makes over the years, everything from Toyota, to GM, to Audi, and much more. And this is the first model I've bought twice. That alone says a lot. Overall, the Durango is an excellent and underrated SUV that's easy for me to recommend. UPDATE FEB 2022: Still love the Durango, no issues. With the v8 dying off, the higher-end models (SRT/Hellcat) will only go up in value. Get one while you can!