Although classified as a midsize sport utility vehicle, Dodge's 2004 redesign of the original 1998 Durango placed it between a midsize and full-size SUV (or between a Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition). In 2007, Dodge gave it a significant exterior facelift and interior update. The 2008 model has only minor changes.

Three engines are available: a 3.7-liter V6 with 210 hp that achieves 16/21 mpg, but is underpowered for an SUV of this size; a 4.7-liter V8 with 235 hp, which achieves 14/18 mpg in 4WD configuration on 87-octane regular; and the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 335 hp that achieves 13/18 mpg on 89 octane, but can also use 87. The Hemi does the 0-60 jump in 8.2 seconds, which is not spectacular for this class, but it's also rated to tow 8,950 pounds.

Reviewers prefer driving the five-speed automatic transmission with either of the V8 options. Braking is good, and some reviewers found the handling excellent, even superb for a vehicle of this size and weight. It was even rated as "very secure" in icy conditions. Other reviewers noted some bouncing over broken road surfaces and moderate body lean.

The Durango can be configured to seat up to eight passengers. The second row can be either two bucket seats or a bench seat. Reviewers generally found the second row to be spacious and the third row comfortable for adults only on short trips. The front seats are comfortable and the instrumentation "classy" and easy to operate. Cup holders and storage spaces abound.

The Durango has 68 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats. Put them down, and 102 cubic feet are available. With 48 inches between the rear-wheel housings, a full-size sheet of plywood fits in flat. With a low cargo floor, due to the rear suspension design, and an easy-opening liftgate, loading is convenient.

Safety features on all models include side-curtain air bags, roll-over sensors, multi-stage front airbags, ABS, and an electronic stability system with traction control. A tire-pressure monitoring system and ultrasonic rear park assist are standard on higher trim lines.