2019 Dodge Durango Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

In terms of versatility, the 2019 Dodge Durango is a step above the typical three-row crossover. Not only does the new Durango reward families with excellent comfort, but it also has the ability to keep drivers engaged with its muscular performance. Meanwhile, good ground clearance and an available low-range 4WD system make the Durango a formidable off-road performer.

While not much has changed for the 2019 model year, Dodge has introduced a new premium Harman Kardon sound system. You will have a total of five trims to choose from: SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T and SRT. Let's see how these Durango trims compare to each other.

Compare the 2019 Dodge Durango SXT vs GT Trims. What is the difference?

With a starting price of $29,995, the base Durango SXT proves to be a solid deal. Powering the SXT trim is a V6 engine, which develops a fulfilling 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Like every other Durango, it uses an eight-speed automatic transmission. A load-leveling rear suspension helps with towing. While rear-wheel drive comes standard, you can opt for an AWD system.

While the Durango SXT accommodates up to five passengers, an optional third-row seat allows up to seven people to climb inside. Despite being the cheapest Durango trim, the Durango SXT does come equipped with some very attractive features. Dodge's 7.0-inch Uconnect touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a definite highlight. Dual USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and three-zone automatic climate control come standard as well.

Stepping up to the GT trim gets you a few more features. The main upgrades include satellite radio, a power tailgate, remote start, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Rear parking sensors help when maneuvering in tight spots. In contrast to the base SXT model, it comes standard with a third-row seat.

A large number of options are available for the Durango GT. Featuring an upgraded 8.4-inch touch screen with navigation and a nine-speaker Alpine audio system, the Premium Group package is bound to intrigue a lot of buyers. While the Safety/Security package adds blind-spot monitoring and adaptive headlights, the Technology package adds advanced safety technologies like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. While the optional rear entertainment system will get the attention of your kids, it adds an extra $2,000 to the SUV's total cost.

Unique exterior styling further separates the Durango GT from the base Durango SXT. Its outfitted with a more attractive set of 20-inch wheels and a more aggressive front fascia. You'll also notice the GT model's powerful hood.

Compare the 2019 Durango GT vs Citadel Trims. What is the difference?

You'll find the Durango Citadel to be a bit more luxurious than the Durango GT. Unlike the GT trim, the leather-lined Citadel trim comes with heated front and second-row seats. Second-row captain's chairs replace the GT trim's second-row bench seat. A heated steering wheel is equipped on the Citadel trim as well. Aside from the GT trim's optional Premium package, the Durango Citadel also benefits from front parking sensors and a sunroof. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system is optional.

In contrast to the GT trim, the Durango Citadel can be equipped with with a Hemi V8 engine. It kicks out a more exciting 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. However, keep in mind that the extra power will cost you an additional $4,000. An optional dual-range transfer case elevates the SUV's off-road performance.

Compare the Durango Citadel vs R/T Trims. What is the difference?

The Durango R/T is designed to give you a sportier driving experience. A Hemi V8 engine comes standard. To further hone the R/T's handling, Dodge fitted it with a sports-tuned suspension and an upgraded steering system. A dual-range transfer case comes standard. Although the R/T trim contains a similar list of standard features, it doesn't get second-row captains chairs. Leather-and-suede seats are also found inside the R/T trim.

There are a few big styling differences on the Durango R/T. A performance hood gives it an especially muscular appearance. Meanwhile, a lowered ride height enhances the SUV's sporty stance. You'll also notice the Durango R/T's LED fog lights.

Compare the Durango R/T vs SRT Trims. What is the difference?

If you're seeking even more performance than the R/T can offer, take a look at the high-output Durango SRT. It comes standard with a larger Hemi V8 engine, which pushes out a remarkable 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet. This is easily one of the fastest three-row crossovers to ever hit the market. A limited-slip differential ensures better cornering. Some of the SRT trim's other performance upgrades include a stronger set of Brembo brakes, special suspension tuning, and standard all-wheel drive.

To no surprise, the Durango SRT is by far the most expensive trim in the lineup. Nevertheless, it does offer an excellent combination of sheer power and comfort. Perforated Nappa leather upholstery and ventilated front seats help you to experience a great deal of relaxation. Active noise cancellation helps quiet the cabin. Integrated into the Uconnect infotainment system, the SRT Performance Pages enable you to access performance data like 0-60 times and G-force. Dodge's various safety technologies are optional.

Final Thoughts

Before you go shopping for a new 2019 Dodge Durango, first find out how much cash you're willing to spend every month. The base Durango SXT is a good value for the money. It's standard V6 engine packs plenty of performance. A 26-mpg highway fuel economy rating makes it perfect for family road trips. Important features include a smartphone-friendly Uconnect infotainment system, reclining second-row seats, and a backup camera.

For roughly $4,500 extra, you can get the Durango GT. Although the GT trim isn't much more upscale than the base SXT model, it will turn more heads on the road. A number of styling enhancements are found on the Durango GT, including upgraded wheels and a cooler-looking front fascia. If you desire driver-assist technologies like blind-spot detection and forward collision braking, prepare to spend more money.

The mid-level Citadel trim feels more luxurious than the lower trims. A high-powered Harman Kardon sound system are optional.

Drivers who are interested in a sportier SUV should check out the R/T and SRT trims. A starting price of $43,995 makes the Durango R/T far more affordable than the pricey SRT trim. Although the Durango R/T may not be as fast, it can still hit 60 mph in a brisk 6.1 seconds. However, a 475-horsepower engine makes the Durango SRT quicker than the overwhelming majority of today's family vehicles. Aside from the Durango SRT's steep MSRP of nearly $63,000, it also has a rather low fuel economy rating. Premium gas is a necessity.

2019 Dodge Durango Key Features

When shopping for a new 2019 Dodge Durango, you'll have three different engines to pick from. Most drivers will choose the standard V6 engine, which returns the best fuel economy. If you desire a more muscular performance, get one of the available Hemi V8 engines. While the extra power is undeniable, you'll have to sacrifice some fuel economy. Gas mileage in the city drops to only 14 mpg with the 5.7L Hemi engine. Expect the larger 6.4L Hemi engine to swallow fuel at an even faster rate.

All versions of the 2019 Dodge Durango come equipped with a Uconnect infotainment system, which has garnered great reviews from many car critics. Big virtual buttons make this touch-screen interface very easy to use. While you can upgrade to a larger 8.4-inch display, the standard 7.0-inch display processes information just as quickly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto help you to seamlessly link your smartphone.

While rear-wheel drive comes standard on the 2019 Dodge Durango, some folks will need the available 4WD system. This is especially true for the drivers who tend to experience heavy snow during the winter. Available low-range gearing also helps when traveling on muddy trails.

For the drivers who like to rock out while behind the wheel, Dodge offers two premium sound systems. Most people will be happy with the 506-watt Alpine unit. It comes equipped with a subwoofer for enhanced bass production. However, the 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system is a music lover's dream. This 825-watt system makes every genre of music sound amazing.

There are some cool styling upgrades are available for the 2019 Dodge Durango. Black headlight bezels and bronze-painted wheels come with the stunning Brass Monkey appearance package. Meanwhile, Dodge's Blacktop package gives the Durango a blacked-out theme. Both of these appearance packages are available on the GT and R/T models. Mopar racing stripes can be added to the Durango R/T and the ultra-powerful Durango SRT.

One of the Durango's best attributes is it's great towing capabilities. Dodge rates the SRT model to tow up to 8,600 pounds. Even the base SXT model features a load-leveling rear suspension, which helps you to confidently pull more than 6,000 pounds of cargo. You can also take advantage of the optional trailer-tow package. When equipped with trailer brake control, the Durango feels even more secure.