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Manufacturer Brochure - 1998 Dodge Durango
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| WHAT COULD BE MORE RIGHT? DODGE DURANGO. |
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| Updated |
Jun 3, 2004 17:28:18 |
| Rating |
 65 ( -10 -15.38% ) |
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Description:
By offering MORE power, room and capability than any other compact sport-utility vehicle, the all-new 1998 Dodge Durango sets a new standard in the segment. But the new Durango goes one step further by offering a MORE convenient, practical and fun-to-drive alternative to full-size sport utility vehicles.
"With Durango, we've chosen to land in an area of the compact sport-utility market where there are no footprints," said Bernard Robertson, Vice President - Engineering Technologies and General Manager, Jeep/Truck Operations. "We're giving the compact SW buyer MORE in terms of room, power, passenger carrying capability, rowing and hauling, while still maintaining the manageability in an overall size they have become quite comfortable with. In essence, we've built a compact sport-utility vehicle that thinks like a full-size."
In addition to the most powerful engine, largest interior and highest towing capability and hauling capacity, Durango is the first compact SW to offer optional eight-passenger seating. Using unique interior packaging concepts and roof construction, Durango offers a comfortable ride from the front row to the third row.
"It was our goal to bring something entirely different to the sport utility vehicle market," Robertson said. "In addition to the seating options, we set out to make a best-in-class vehicle in every major category."
Power
Like its stable mates, Ram and Dakota, Durango will boast the most powerful engine and the most complete engine lineup in its class. In addition to the 3.9-liter Magnum V-6 (175 hp. 225 Ib-ft torque) and 5.2-liter Magnum V-8 (230 hp. 300 lb-ft torque) engines currently available in the Dakota, Durango will offer a 250-horsepower, 335 ft-lb torque 5.9-liter Magnum V-8.
"When we put a V-8 in the Dakota in 1991, we set the standard for compact pickups as it relates to power," said Rich Schaum, General Manager; Truck Engineering. "Our strategy is the same for Durango with the 5.9-liter: to offer an engine that outperforms the competition in power, torque, acceleration and towing. The result is a nimble sport utility that works like a truck--a valuable combination that's missing from today's market offerings."
All three engines will be mated to four-speed automatic transmissions. Durango will be offered in four-wheel drive in the 1998 model year, with a two-wheel drive version available the following model year.
Passenger Space and Convenience
Durango's unique interior and passenger options make it the most space-efficient sport-utility vehicle on the market.
Durango's roof is raised over the second and third rows of seats. This provides an increase in interior roof clearance, facilitates easier ingress/egress and allows for the second and third rows to be raised "theater" style, giving a better view over the front seats.
Like Dakota, Durango offers either bucket seats or a 40-20-40 divided bench front seat, accommodating up to three passengers. The second row of seats is also a 40-20-40 configuration. The seat's outboard portions fold and tumble forward, providing easy third-row access for passengers or improved storage capability. The optional third row bench seat folds forward into the floor to form a flat loading surface.
"Our seating is designed to provide a maximum number of options and a maximum level of convenience," Schaum said. "If you need this vehicle as a people mover, we've provided MORE space and comfort. But if your demands are for hauling, we've built an SW with MORE interior room and loading ease. And if you need both, you can do both."
Capability
While seating options make Durango a people hauler - the best-in-class payload, towing and interior volume make Durango a natural for boaters, hunters and campers.
The 5.9-liter Magnum V-8 delivers a segment-best 7,000 Ibs. maximum tow rating when equipped with an optional Class IV hitch. Maximum payload is more than 1,800 pounds in an interior package that boasts 88 cubic feet of volume with the seats folded down. A unique floor pan depression creates an additional storage compartment behind the rear axle for concealing gear.
"When you build a vehicle with the look of a Dodge truck and this much space, you will naturally attract the interest of outdoors people, and that means you have a lot to live up to," Schaum said. "We knew going in that this would have to out-haul and out-perform the rest. Or, quite simply, it wouldn't be a Dodge." |
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