2020 Dodge Durango Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
The 2020 Dodge Durango is more than just a spacious family vehicle. It also packs a lot of muscle under the hood, which allows you to experience a powerful performance. Cool styling cues also help the new Durango to stand out on the street. While the base model’s list of standard equipment will satisfy most people, a number of great options are available. Let’s take a closer look at this three-row SUV’s great qualities.
What’s New for 2020?
Last year, a new 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system was introduced. No notable updates were made to the 2020 Dodge Durango lineup.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Dodge Durango – The Pros
1. Offers the Towing Capabilities of a Pickup Truck
This is definitely a multipurpose SUV. If you don’t have a pickup truck at home, the 2020 Dodge Durango will prove to be a great substitute. A high towing capacity makes the Durango great for pulling heavy cargo. When properly equipped, it manages to tow up to 8,700 pounds. Even the V6-powered version has a maximum towing capacity of more than 6,000 pounds. Dodge also equips the new Durango with a standard low-leveling rear suspension, which helps keep things balanced when towing.
2. Efficient and Reasonably Powerful Standard V6 Engine
Dodge allows you to upgrade to a more potent Hemi V8 engine. However, fuel economy will take a hit. If you plan to drive the 2020 Dodge Durango on an everyday basis, you’ll appreciate the base V6’s more efficient design. It has an EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating of 26 mpg. This means the V6 engine is especially great for traveling on the open road. Furthermore, a 295-horsepower output ensures competitive acceleration when needed.
3. Offers a Good Off-Road Performance
While the 2020 Dodge Durango may not be as rugged as the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, it is still capable off traveling off the beaten path. A solid ground clearance of 8.1 inches helps this SUV to inspire confidence on dirt trails. You can also get the Durango with a dual-range transfer case, which enhances traction in the mud and snow. When it comes time to take your family on a camping adventure, you can trust the Durango to get the job done.
4. Extremely Exciting SRT Trim
The high-out Durango SRT rivals the driving excitement of a sports car. To ensure a tire-scorching performance, Dodge equips the Durango SRT with one of the strongest powertrains in the class. Its massive 6.4-liter, Hemi V8 engine generates a sizzling 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. When launched from a dead stop, this beast can hit 60 mph in about 4.6 seconds. A burly-sounding performance exhaust makes the SRT trim even more fun.
5. Offers Plenty of Styling Upgrades
If you enjoy the look of a muscle truck, you’ll love the new 2020 Dodge Durango. Its powerful-looking front fascia and strong body make a big statement. There are several exterior upgrades available for the new Durango. Folks seeking an all-black look will like the optional Blacktop package. A cool Brass Monkey package is also offered, which features 20-inch bronze wheels and smoked headlights. This SUV looks especially aggressive with the available vented hood.
6. Truly Provides Enough Space for Everyone
Like every other three-row SUV on the market, the 2020 Dodge Durango is designed to accommodate multiple passengers. However, a spacious third row gives the Durango a serious advantage over the competition. Even adults can comfortably sit in its third row without feeling confined. Tall drivers will appreciate the Durango’s leg space in the front. There’s also a class-leading amount of cargo space inside the new Durango. When you need to haul big stuff, simply fold down the rear seats.
7. Uconnect Infotainment System Scores Well
Dodge equips every new Durango with its signature Uconnect infotainment system. It’s easy to operate and displays high-resolution graphics. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are featured, which simplify the process of linking your smartphone. While lower trims receive a 7.0-inch touchscreen, upper trims offer a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation. Because Uconnect processes information so quickly, drivers can seamlessly select apps from the menu. The powerful SRT model has a built-in Performance Pages app, which allows you to obtain information like acceleration times and cornering g-force.
8. Some Key Safety Features Are Available
The 2020 Dodge Durango offers some safety features to help keep you out of trouble. Even the base SXT trim benefits from Rain Brake Support. By removing water from the brake pads, this feature helps you to maintain good stopping power in wet weather. You can further enhance your safety by opting for the Durango’s Technology package. It adds adaptive cruise control, automatic panic braking, and lane departure warning. Furthermore, every trim in the lineup can now be equipped with blind-spot monitoring.
9. Offers Features That Provide More Entertainment
You and your family can stay entertained while riding in the 2020 Dodge Durango. It offers plenty of amusing features. The optional 825-watt Harman Kardon sound system gives you the feeling of being at a live concert. To make life on the road less boring for kids, opt for the rear entertainment system. A dual-screen setup helps prevent children from fighting over the system. They will love being able to play video games and watch movies. Onboard Wi-Fi is offered as well.
10. Some Nice Creature Comforts Are Offered
Drivers seeking a greater sense of luxury will want the Durango’s upgraded creature comforts. The available heated front- and second-row seats will make winter traveling more enjoyable. Meanwhile, optional ventilated front seats help cool you down on summer days. Some people will find the Durango’s sunroof to be a must-have option. Laguna leather upholstery and a power-adjustable steering wheel with heating are also offered.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Dodge Durango – The Cons
1. Drinks a Lot Of Fuel With V8 Engine
If you are concerned about getting the best fuel efficiency, forgo the Durango’s available V8 engines. Not only will these powerful motors guzzle down fuel at a quicker rate, but they also aren’t designed to use regular unleaded gas. While the 5.7-liter Hemi engine returns a combined 17 mpg, the SRT model’s larger 6.4-liter Hemi engine only delivers a combined 15 mpg.
2. Safety Scores Are Below Average
While the 2020 Dodge Durango gets credit for offering modern safety technologies, its crash scores are below the class average. Last year, this SUV received a four-star overall safety rating from the federal government. It only garnered a four-star rating for front driver-side impact protection. You’ll also notice the Durango’s three-star rollover rating. In terms of overall crash safety, the Honda Pilot is a step above the Durango.
3. Low Reliability Rating
If you decide to buy a 2020 Dodge Durango, don’t be surprised to encounter at least a few problems during your ownership. According to J.D. Power’s dependability study, the new Durango offers below-average reliability. This information may concern drivers who plan to keep their Durango after the original warranty expires.
4. Standard Models Don’t Offer Great Handling
Performance upgrades, like a lowered suspension and sports-tuned steering, help the Durango SRT and the Durango R/T to handle with more poise. On the other hand, the standard Durango’s handling is not great. Slow steering makes the Durango drive more like a truck as opposed to a crossover SUV. Furthermore, some models weigh more than 5,000 pounds. Expect to feel this additional weight when taking tight curves.
5. High-Performance Durango SRT’s Price
Very few three-row family vehicle deliver more thrills than Durango SRT. However, many people can’t afford its sticker price. Dodge lists this powerful model with a starting MSRP of nearly $63,000. You should also factor in the Durango SRT’s lower fuel economy.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition:
2020 Honda Pilot
The 2020 Honda Pilot has a few advantages over the 2020 Dodge Durango, including a higher predicted reliability rating and an extra number of standard safety technologies. However, Honda does not make a Pilot trim that rivals the performance of the Durango SRT. Outdoor lovers will also appreciate the Durango’s more impressive off-road prowess.
2020 Ford Explorer
The 2020 Ford Explorer is a great SUV. While the Explorer’s new ST trim is strong, it’s still not as entertaining as the mighty Durango SRT. You can also use the Durango to tow a bigger load.
Conclusion
While the 2020 Dodge Durango may have some weaknesses to consider, be sure to give it a test drive. This SUV may ultimately win you over with its muscular engine lineup and accommodating interior design. Automotive critics give the Durango high marks for its comfortable seats. There’s also more than enough premium features available. The V6 model is especially ideal for chauffeuring around your family on a daily basis.
Before buying a V8-powered Durango, be sure you can handle its cost of fuel. Also, be aware of this SUV's lower reliability rating.
