Considering the source material, you would think the 2014 Dodge Durango R/T would feel like a Jeep Grand Cherokee when you drive. Not exactly. The 2014 Dodge Durango R/T has a sport suspension, a 5.7-liter HEMI and an exhaust note that borders on obscene (in a good way). Nothing about the 2014 Dodge Durango R/T is subtle, and that’s the way we like it.
How many of you are tired of driving crossovers that are painfully conservative? I bet more of you than you’re willing to admit. Today, automakers build excellent crossovers that seat seven to eight people that are remarkably competent day-to-day drivers. Sadly, only a handful have any personality.
The minute the 2014 Dodge Durango R/T graced my driveway and neighbors heard the HEMI growl – it solicited a crowd. Oh yes, this baby has personality.
Here’s the juicy stuff:
- The 5.7-liter HEMI puts out 360 hp and an impressive 390 lb-ft if torque.
- All Durangos now have the new 8-speed automatic transmission.
- Despite the power, the 2014 Dodge Durango R/T can get 14 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. I have averaged 17 mpg so far.
- It can tow up to 7,400 lbs.
- The 2014 Dodge Durango R/T has unique sport wheels, sport steering, sport suspension and unique interior “R/T” accents.
The 2014 Dodge Durango R/T I am testing costs just a hair over $51,000. That may seem like a lot, but this price is for a vehicle loaded to its maximum. If you’re cautious with options, you can get one in the mid $40,000 range – and that’s more than competitive.
Dislikes? Very few. I wish they would do away with the rotary gear selector. With such a sporty, beefy vehicle, I like the idea of being able to grab a chunky, metal lever. The interior is well made, but it’s SO black, it boarders on boring – visually. That’s about it with the negatives.
The 2014 Dodge Durango R/T is a blast to drive in anger. It holds corners shaming most sedans, grumbles loudly – when called upon and launches hard. It gives the driver the sense that he/she is behind the wheel of a performance wagon while never letting you forget it’s a beefy truck-ish machine. I played with the paddle-shifters so often (to hear the engine yell at unnecessarily higher RPMs), my kids and “She-who-must-be-obeyed” yelled at me.
So far, I’m having a ball!
When’s the last time you had real “FUN” driving the streets with a crossover/SUV?
Seriously.
Speaking of fast crossovers and SUVs…
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
