Car Buying Strategies
Search Car Buying Strategies Makes & Models Select a Make and Model Makes & Models Select a Make and Model New Cars Prices Buying Advice
Home / Dodge / 2023 Dodge Durango

2023 Dodge Durango Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2023 Dodge Durango Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: SXT vs GT and GT Plus, R/T vs Citadel and SRT Hellcat
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2023 Dodge Durango Trim Should You Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

The 2023 Dodge Durango is a 3-row SUV that offers an impressive combination of power and practicality. With plenty of room for up to seven, along with formidable engine options offering exciting performance capabilities, this modern family vehicle will provide the perfect balance between urban adventures and rural exploration – all in one stylish package. Whether you're looking for something budget friendly or something more high end like the SRT trim - there's sure to be a model suited just right for your needs.

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

With the arrival of more standard equipment, the entry-level Durango SXT has become even more satisfying. Its attractive styling and competitive performance will also win over a lot of people.

Dodge’s popular Pentastar V6 engine supplies the Durango SXT’s muscle. It punches out a hearty 293 horsepower, which is enough beef for drivers to tow up to a 6,200-pound load. An eight-speed automatic transmission completes the SUV’s powertrain. When accelerating hard, the Durango SXT clocks a good 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds.

Like most trims, the Durango SXT comes standard with a rear-wheel-drive system. However, drivers who live in snow-prone areas may want to check off the SUV’s optional all-wheel-drive system. In terms of fuel economy, the RWD-equipped Durango has a rating of 19 mpg town/26 mpg freeway. Opting for the AWD system lowers this estimate to 18 mpg town/25 mpg freeway. Regular unleaded gas can be used.

Keep in mind that the all-wheel-drive Durango SXT comes equipped with a load-leveling rear suspension. This feature will benefit drivers who plan to tow heavier cargo.

Despite being the lineup’s lowest-priced trim, it still has a sharp appearance. LED headlights and taillights are standard equipment. Dodge also equips the SUV with an appealing set of 18-inch aluminum wheels and roof rails. On cold mornings, the Durango’s heated outside mirrors help clear away frost. There are eight paint colors available for the SXT trim, including Octane Red Pearlcoat and Destroyer Gray Clearcoat.

On the inside, the SXT trim features three rows of seats. Cloth upholstery comes standard. For the 2023 model year, this trim has been upgraded with heated front seats. This is a nice perk for folks who must contend with cold weather. Tri-zone automatic climate control enables families to experience greater comfort. Other standard amenities include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, push-button start, and a power driver’s seat.

Dodge's Uconnect 4 infotainment system is the epitome of convenience. Offering drivers all the latest amenities, from an 8.4-inch touch display with smartphone connectivity to Bluetooth and satellite radio capability plus a six speaker sound system - this tech package has something for everyone.

Some helpful safety features are found on the SXT trim. When traveling on multiple-lane roads and backing up, the SUV’s blind-spot monitoring system will alert drivers to nearby vehicles. During wet conditions, Rain Brake Support keep the brake rotors dry. Rear parking sensors and a rearview camera also help drivers to safely navigate parking areas.

For an extra cost, buyers can get Dodge’s SXT Plus package. It greatly enhances the SUV’s safety profile by adding full-speed forward collision warning. Designed to automatically adjust speed, the package’s adaptive cruise control system is nearly just as beneficial. A power sunroof is included in the package as well.

Many people will be interested in the popular Durango GT. Some car reviewers consider this trim to be the range’s best bang for the buck. It’s only around $2,500 more expensive than the base SXT trim.

The Durango GT has a racier appearance. While 20-inch alloy wheels give the vehicle a more intimidating stance, a sport grille helps the front fascia to stand out. In the rear, a dual exhaust system with chrome pipes makes the Durango GT look more powerful. Other appearance includes include black headlight bezels and body-color accents.

The GT trim’s cabin also has a sportier theme. Drivers will immediately notice its flat-bottom performance steering wheel. A heating function is built into the steering wheel, which will come in handy on wintry days. To give drivers more security when reversing, Dodge adds rear automatic braking. Remote start further separates the Durango GT.

Another valuable asset is the GT trim’s power liftgate. At the click of a button, drivers can access the cargo area when loading stuff.

Compare the Durango GT vs GT Plus. What is the difference?

The Durango GT Plus is essentially an upgraded version of the Durango GT. While this trim looks quite similar, Dodge equips it with LED fog lights. A Nappa leather-appointed interior adds to the GT Plus trim’s luxuriousness. High-end amenities, such as ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats, upgrades the level of comfort.

Stepping up to the Durango GT Plus brings Dodge’s latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system. Aside from faster information processing, this upgraded interface also provides a larger 10.1-inch touch display with navigation. Other perks include an auto-dimming function for the driver’s side mirror, a memory driver’s seat, and a household-style power outlet.

Buyers can further upgrade the Durango GT Plus with a Premium Group 1 package. Music fans will enjoy the package’s Alpine sound system. It features a total of nine speakers, including a bass-enhancing subwoofer. Wireless charging makes it easier for drivers to replenish their phone.

Additional safety features come with the Premium Group 1 package as well. Advanced Brake Assist boosts stopping power during emergencies. If the driver unintentionally drifts across the line, lane departure alert will give them a heads up. Automatic high beams, rain-detecting windshield wipers, and parking are also part of the deal.

Compare the Durango GT Plus vs R/T Trim Level. What is the difference?

The Durango R/T is geared towards motorists who crave a true muscle truck. It inflates performance with a 5.7-liter, HEMI V8 engine. Output rises to 360 horsepower, which lowers the SUV’s 0-60 mph time to around 6.4 seconds. The beefier engine also raises the towing capacity to 7,400 pounds. To prompt tighter handling, Dodge equips the R/T with a sports-tuned suspension and a more responsive steering system.

With the extra power comes reduced fuel economy. Drivers can expect the R/T trim to return around 14 mpg in city traffic and up to 22 mpg on the freeway. The use of mid-grade gas is also recommended.

The R/T Hemi Orange special-edition SUV is sure to turn heads with its eye-catching black and orange hood stripes, 20 inch black wheels, and bold interior stitching. Other features include a performance hood for beefier look as well as Performance Pages app that allows drivers to track real time performance metrics on the infotainment screen. Standard amenities like power passenger seat, nine speaker Alpine premium audio system & rain sensing wipers enhance comfortability in this powerful ride.

The R/T Hemi Orange package does more than just bolster the SUV’s curb appeal. It also adds quite a few premium features. Highlights include ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and adaptive cruise control.

A R/T Plus sub-trim is also offered. It adds all of the creature comforts found on the special R/T Hemi Orange model. A power sunroof, LED fog lights, and a trail hitch also come equipped on the Durango R/T Plus.

Yet another option is the R/T Premium sub-trim. Its 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system is among the segment’s best-sounding units. Carbon-fiber interior trim and a suede headliner also enables the Durango R/T Premium to compete against the segment’s most upscale models. Advanced brake assist and lane departure warning come standard.

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

In contrast to the sporty R/T trim, the more luxurious Citadel trim comes standard with a Pentastar V6 engine. However, folks who desire more power may upgrade to the previously mentioned Hemi V8 engine. Regardless of which powertrain they prefer, buyers can benefit from the Durango Citadel’s standard tow package.

This trim definitely comes standard with an impressive list of premium amenities. Just a few of the goodies include heated second-row captain’s chairs, climate-controlled front seats, a power sunroof, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Upscale interior touches, such as Nappa leather upholstery and a suede headliner, also enhance the SUV’s plushness. For an additional cost, Dodge fans can upgrade the Durango Citadel with a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

The Durango Citadel is just as stylish as the other trims. Platinum chrome exterior accents and unique 20-inch Satin Carbon alloy wheels help it to attract attention.

Dodge also equips the Citadel trim with more standard safety technologies. This means buyers won’t have to pay extra for adaptive cruise control, active lane assistance, and full-speed forward collision warning with Advanced Brake Assist.

Compare the Durango Citadel vs SRT Trims. What is the difference?

The Durango SRT 392 is among the segment’s most exciting models. It packs a larger 6.4-liter, Hemi V8 engine under the hood. Output stands at a monstrous 475 horsepower. Clocked with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, this high-powered Durango can easily accelerate past most family vehicles. Fuel economy stands at an estimated 13 mpg town/19 mpg freeway on premium gasoline.

Not only is the Durango SRT 392 fast, but it can also tow up to 8,700 pounds. This quality further attests to the SUV’s superior versatility.

For better grip the road, Dodge equips the Durango SRT 382 with a Quadra-Trac AWD system. An electronic limited-slip rear differential and a performance-tuned suspension also help this family hauler to confidently hang curves. Meanwhile, high-performance Brembo brakes bring an elevated degree of stopping power. Another feature that driving enthusiasts enjoy is the SRT 392 trim’s active exhaust system.

On the inside, special SRT sport seats make the SUV feel ready for the track. It contains the same luxury features that are found on the less powerful Citadel trim. If desired, buyers can delete the vehicle’s standard third-row seat.

Compare the Durango SRT 392 vs SRT Hellcat. What is the difference?

Those seeking performance will delight in the Durango SRT Hellcat - a three-row SUV that truly stands out from the pack. This model is powered by an incredible supercharged Hemi V8 engine, capable of launching you to 60 mph in under four seconds with its 710 horsepower output. Fuel economy may not be at its best; yet according to estimates, driving around town still yields 12 mpg while 17 can be reached when taking it easy on longer routes.

Many of the SRT 392 trim’s performance upgrades are found on the Durango SRT Hellcat. However, it receives a competition suspension with adaptive shock absorbers. Unique wheels and other exclusive appearance upgrades further differentiate the mighty SRT Hellcat trim. Also, no other trim in the lineup has a 200-mph speedometer.

Final Thoughts

Buyers can’t go wrong with the entry-level Durango SXT. It comes loaded with more than enough features to fulfill most car shoppers, including newly standard heated front seats. For not much more money, you can step up to the sportier-looking GT trim. Some of its upgrades include a heated sport steering wheel, remote start, and rear automatic braking.

The V8-equipped R/T trim is a good pick for Durango fans who seek additional driving fun and more premium features. Unfortunately, fuel economy is lower. While the Citadel trim isn’t as sporty as the R/T trim, it does deliver a luxurious drive.

In terms of sheer performance, the SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat trims are hard to beat. On the downside, prices start at more than $70,000 before adding any dealer options.


Previous Year Trim Configurations:

2022 Dodge Durango Trim Levels