The new 2014 Dodge Durango is often just the right size for those folks who need more interior room and towing capability than a typical midsize SUV can deliver while not being as bulky, cumbersome or hard to park as a full-sizer. The 2014 Dodge Durango gets a new eight-speed automatic transmission, revised front and rear styling, and an updated interior with newly available features like an 8.4-inch touchscreen display and a rear-seat Blu-ray player. Overall the updated 2014 Durango is one of the most appealing options out there for a six- or seven-passenger SUV.

'14 Dodge Durango Exterior

2014 Dodge Durango Interior

2014 Dodge Durango Power and Handling

The current Dodge Durango's 3.6-liter V6 has some muscle -- 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The big news is the Durango's new eight-speed automatic transmission. The new transmission makes better use of what power the base V6 engine has to offer. Chrysler says the 2014 Durango will be "up to 9 percent" more efficient than the outgoing model thanks to the new transmission and new Eco mode. Standard on the R/T and optional on the Crew and Citadel is a 5.7-liter V8 good for 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The V8 provides fairly strong acceleration and added grunt, which would be an asset for those who plan on towing. The Durango is confident in terms of handling while still providing a composed and comfortable ride over bumps and ruts.

Design of the '14 Durango

The 2014 Dodge Durango large crossover SUV is available in four trim levels. The Charger has a raised front bumper and new projector-beam headlights with available LED daytime running lights. New taillights bring the Durango's rear end in line with the rest of the Dodge family. The changes in the 2014 Dodge Durango's cabin are particularly striking, as the Durango gets an all-new instrument panel and an updated dash that accommodates a large, intuitive 8.4-inch touchscreen that uses an upgraded version of the company's Uconnect system. Safety options include blind spot monitoring, cross-path detection and Uconnect Access, which provides 911 calls and roadside assistance. High-quality interior surfaces abound, and much like its Jeep Grand Cherokee cousin, the 2014 Durango feels decidedly upscale for its class.

Conclusions

Though the Dodge Durango has long been classified as a midsize sport-utility vehicle, its designers actually made it a half-size larger in order to fill the niche between the midsize SUV and full-size SUV classes. Auto reviewers generally like the 2014 Dodge Durango, saying that it offers a compliant ride, nimble handling and a surprisingly small turning radius and is more engaging to drive than many of its rivals. The 2014 Dodge Durango is a great choice for a seven-passenger SUV. For more information about this vehicle, please visit the official Dodge Durango website.