2022 Dodge Durango Pros vs Cons

The 2022 Durango is one of just three vehicles that Dodge now makes. This SUV tries to give drivers the thrill they would find in the Charger or Challenger, plus practicality and comfort. There are many things that can be praised about the new Durango, as well as a few things that remain an issue. When compared, are the cons more significant? Or do the pros make the Durango a smart buy in 2022?

What's New for 2022?

This year, all models of the Durango are equipped with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. They all also have rear parking sensors. Prior to 2022, the Durango came standard with no driver aids, so these changes are definitely welcome. Other features that are now included on every model include a power-adjustable driver's seat and roof rails.

Perhaps the most significant change this year involves the seating. A third-row is now standard, giving the Durango room for up to seven. GT models add some new features to keep drivers comfortable, including heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. As for the R/T Plus model, it now has a sunroof and a premium sound system from Harman Kardon.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2022 Dodge Durango – The Pros

1. Strong Towing Capacity

The Durango lives up the Dodge reputation for power with its towing capacity. With the standard V6 underneath the hood, this SUV can handle up to 6,200 pounds. The available 5.7L V8 can have properly-equipped Durango models towing up to 7,400 pounds. As for the top 6.2L V8 engine, it provides this SUV with the ability to tow up to 8,700 pounds when the optional Tow N Go package is equipped. This is a class-leading number.

2. Easy-to-Use Technology on Large Touchscreen

UConnect comes standard for the 2022 Durango. This infotainment system is widely considered to be one of the most user-friendly out there. It runs on either an 8.4-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and it comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other standard tech features on all models include satellite radio, Bluetooth, and four USB ports. Upper trims are home to wireless smartphone integration, Amazon Alexa compatibility, wireless device charging, and much more.

3. Powerful V8s Available

The standard engine for the 2022 Durango is a 3.6L V6 that pumps out 295-horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. You may find that this is more than enough, or you may be tempted by the two available V8s. The first is a 5.7L, and it is capable of making up to 360-horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The second is a 6.2L, and it churns out 475-horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. This engine is standard for the SRT model, which also comes with an all-wheel drive.

4. Off-Road Capability is Impressive

The Durango is not designed to be an off-roader by any means, but it does surprisingly well off the beaten path. Most models are available with all-wheel drive, and low-range gearing is available on select models as well. If you are after the most off-road-ready version of the 2022 Durango, the SRT 392 is the way to go. It has electronically damped shocks to reduce body roll, plus Brembo brakes.

5. Modern & Upscale Cabin

Based on the age of the current generation of the Durango, it would be easy to assume that the cabin would look and feel outdated. That is not the case, thankfully. There are plenty of modern touches found throughout the cabin, plus well-cushioned seats that make the Durango pleasant to ride around in. Thanks to its design, this SUV also keeps most of the road and wind noise out.

6. Generous Cargo Space

The Durango is a pretty big vehicle, which is why it can offer a great deal of space for your gear. Behind the third row, you will find there are just over 17 cubic feet to work with. Folding down that row is how to get over 43 cubic feet, and folding down the second row as well will mean getting just over 85 cubic feet. Select models are available with a power liftgate.

7. Satisfying Drive on the Highway

Standard rear-wheel drive and a load-leveling suspension are just part of the reason you will love driving the 2022 Durango at highway speeds. The steering is nice and responsive, the brakes are strong, and the suspension is designed to handle most of the average bumps in the road. The strong powertrain options also make it easy to pass on the highway, making the Durango a great option for a road trip.

8. Great Predicted Reliability

J.D. Power is a resource that you can use to get a feel for how reliable a vehicle will be. They gave the 2022 Dodge Durango a predicted reliability score of 81, which places it in the "Great" range. This may help some drivers feel confident spending their money on such a large and pricey vehicle.

9. Bold Exterior Design

Despite being a midsize SUV, the Durango manages to look sporty. It shares exterior design features with the Charger and Challenger. Somehow, this vehicle combines the boxy shape of an SUV with the sleek lines that are typically associated with a muscle car. If you opt for the Citadel trim, your Durango will lean toward luxury with things like chrome exterior accents. The R/T and SRT 392 go for a bolder look, however, with larger wheels and unique hood designs.

10. Sporty R/T and SRT 392 Trims Makes Driving Fun

Not only do the R/T and SRT 392 models look athletic, but they also have the necessary features to back it up. The R/T is the first trim level to come with a sport-tuned suspension, for example. It also comes standard with the 5.7L V8. As for the SRT 392, it has the 6.4L V8 engine, an adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, a limited-slip differential, and more.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2022 Dodge Durango – The Cons

1. Thirsty Engine Options

Great power and thirsty engines go hand-in-hand. This is definitely the case with the 2022 Durango. With the standard engine and rear-wheel drive, you can expect 19mpg in the city and 26mpg on the highway. It only gets worse from there. The 5.7L V8 is estimated to get 14mpg city along with 22mpg highway, and the 6.2L v8 will see only 13mpg city and 19mpg highway.

2. Third Row is Tight

Having a third-row standard is something new for the Durango, and it is already running into the same problem that most midsize SUVs face. The third row is best reserved for small children, although two adults could ride back there if necessary. On the plus side, it is easy to access the very back of this SUV, which is something that parents can appreciate.

3. Very Few Standard Driver Aids

It is admirable that Dodge is finally giving the Durango driver aids on its standard feature list. They have a way to go before catching up with rivals, however. Things such as forward-collision warning and lane departure warning, which are pretty common on new vehicles, are still reserved for upper trim levels of the 2022 Durango.

4. Bulk Makes it Difficult to Maneuver

While the Durango is undoubtedly fun to drive on the highway, it is a different story when on city streets. Parking this large vehicle can be difficult, and cornering on tight roads can feel nearly impossible. Buyers should definitely pay attention to the wide turning radius of this SUV when giving it a test drive.

5. Top Trims are Quite Pricey

The entry-level Durango costs around $33,000, which is competitive. By the time you reach the top trim levels, however, you are looking at spending over $65,000. That is quite a bit to shell out for a non-luxury SUV, even if it does have exhilarating performance.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Dodge Durango vs. 2022 Ford Explorer

There are many reasons that the Explorer has remained so popular over the years, including its smooth ride and excellent fuel economy. The Explorer also has way more standard and available safety tech, which may seal the deal for some families. On the other hand, the Durango has a more upscale and comfortable cabin. The Durango also has a higher towing capacity than the Explorer.

2022 Dodge Durango vs. 2022 Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride appeals to drivers with its extensive list of standard features, plus a truly impressive warranty. It is not nearly as powerful as the Durango, but some drivers may not be bothered by this. The Telluride also cannot keep up with the towing capability of the Durango.

Conclusion

The 2022 Dodge Durango will certainly appeal to drivers who want practicality in a powerful and stylish package. It is hard to say whether or not Dodge can give this SUV better fuel economy without taking away from its power, although exploring hybrid options may be the solution. Figuring out how to make the third row a bit roomier would also help. Overall, the 2022 Dodge Durango is a well-done SUV that will make a smart buy for many families.