2012 Dodge Durango Review
The 2012 Dodge Durango NCP is a large crossover SUV offered in 4 trim levels; base SXT, Crew, R/T and Citadel, available with numerous powertrain combinations. Just a few of the standard features on the base model include full power accessories, heated side mirrors, 3-zone auto climate control that includes separate rear A/C and more. Upper trims and options packages allow a buyer to add even more luxury, high-tech and entertainment features to fully customize for individual needs and tastes.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The 2012 Dodge Durango comes in numerous configurations and trim levels offering a sophisticated ride combined with excellent towing capabilities. Buyers in the market for a large SUV that offers a wide range of options should put the Durango at the top of the list.
What’s New For 2012:
The 2012 Dodge Durango only received a few minor improvements over last year including revised trim levels, newly available 2nd-row captain’s chairs and a 6 speed automatic transmission for V8 models.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
In an initial quality study by J.D. Power and Associates based from owner reported issues, the Dodge Durango earned an impressive score of 4.5 out of a possible 5 for overall initial quality. This included a score of 4.5 for powertrain design quality, 4 for body and interior mechanical quality, and a 3.5 for features and accessories design/mechanical quality as well as body and interior design quality. Based upon separate independent surveys, reliability for future models is expected to be 23% above average.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Dodge Durango is a 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick and in government testing the NHTSA awarded an overall safety score of 4 Stars out of 5, with 5 Stars for side crash tests. The Durango comes equipped with stability/traction/trailer sway control, standard antilock disc brakes and front side/full-length side curtain airbags. The Citadel is also equipped with blind-spot monitoring and cross-path warning systems (optional on the Crew).
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Easy to maneuver
+ 3rd row seat is adult-friendly
+ Powerful V8 options with excellent towing capacity
Cons
– Not quite as much cargo room as smilar models
– The V6 engine is not as energetic as others
– 2nd row doesn’t offer a lot of leg room
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Dodge Durango starts at a slightly lower price than competitors Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Flex, and is the more capable SUV. The Durango offers a V6 rated at 290hp, compared to the Traverse with 281 horses and the Flex back with a 262hp engine. The Durango has the largest gas tank at 24.6 gallons compared to the Traverse’s 22 gallon tank and the Flex with an 18.6 gallon tank. Max towing capabilities are close between the Durango and Traverse at 5000lbs and 5200lbs respectively; the Flex is rated with max towing capabilities of 4500lbs.
What Others Are Saying:
"Strip away the frosting on this crossover and you’ll find an honest and well-appointed cabin that just plain works." – AutoBlog
"The steering is very good, nicely weighted, and pleasantly linear – better, in fact, than the steering in our BMW 5GT long-termer. The Durango R/T feels remarkably composed for a 5483-lb vehicle when hustled through the turns, and has excellent straight-line stability." – MotorTrend
"Durango is a refined cruiser, ride quality is smooth and comfortable without being soft and mushy. It’s as nimble in the corners as a seven-passenger sport-utility could hope to be." – Driven Car Reviews
Read more about the 2012 Dodge Durango, at the Dodge manufacturer site.
