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Dodge Durango: generations, engines and trims
The Dodge Durango is a large, seven-seat American SUV that has been in production since 1997. In Lithuania, it arrives as an imported vehicle from the USA. We'll look at the generations, engines, trims, and what to check before buying a used Durango.
Durango in brief
The Durango is a large, spacious, and powerful SUV with three rows of seating. It's particularly valued for its strong towing capacity and wide range of engines — from V6 to powerful V8 versions.
The Durango is not officially sold in Lithuania, so all vehicles are imported, mostly from the USA. As a result, mileage can be in miles, and sourcing parts may take longer than for popular European brands.
Which generation to choose
The first (1998–2003) and second (2004–2009) generations are now quite old, rarely used, and usually cheap. Buying them is riskier due to their age.
The third generation (WD, from 2011) is the mainstay of the used market. It's based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform, so it has independent suspension, a more modern interior, and higher comfort. In 2014, it was updated with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an improved interior.
Engines and transmissions
Third-generation Durango engines: 3.6 l Pentastar V6 (around 290 hp), 5.7 l Hemi V8 (around 360 hp), and sport versions — 6.4 l Hemi V8 SRT 392 (around 475 hp) and 6.2 l supercharged Hellcat (around 710 hp)
From 2014, most cars come with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, while earlier versions had a 5-speed. You can opt for rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD).
What to check when buying a used Durango
Check the VIN history, mileage, and whether the car was damaged in an accident. Many cars imported from the USA had insurance claims, so thoroughly inspect the body and rear sections.
The 5.7-litre Hemi engines with cylinder deactivation (MDS) can have issues with lifters and a characteristic 'ticking' sound, so listen for even operation. Also, check if it hasn't been converted to a propane system.
Test the gearbox — shifts should be smooth. Check the air conditioning and all electronic features.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the trims most commonly found in the US import market.
SXT
Third generationBase trim with essential equipment.
- Often, the 3.6-litre V6 engine
- Often — 18-inch wheels
- Often — basic infotainment
GT
Third generationSportier-looking version.
- Often — sportier interior
- Often — additional comfort features
- Often — larger wheels
R/T
Third generationSporty variant with 5.7-litre V8.
- Mostly 5.7-litre Hemi V8
- Often — a sporty ride
- Often — larger wheels
Citadel
Third generationHigher-class version with plusher trim.
- Often — leather interior
- Often — heated and ventilated seats
- Often — more advanced driver aids
SRT 392
Third generationSport version with 6.4-litre V8.
- Around 475 hp
- Often — sport seats
- Often — sport suspension and brakes
SRT Hellcat
Third generation (from 2021)The most powerful version with a turbocharged V8.
- Around 710 hp
- Sporty styling and brakes
- Often — advanced sporty equipment
Trim comparison
| SXT | R/T | Citadel | SRT 392 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For everyday use | For sportier driving | For maximum comfort | For dynamics |
| Wheels (most often) | 18-inch | 20-inch | 20-inch | 20-inch |
| Engine | 3.6-litre V6 | 5.7-litre V8 | 3.6-litre V6 or 5.7-litre V8 | 6.4L V8 |
| Interior | Base | Sportier | Single-tone interior | Sport |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end | High-end |
Most buyers find the SXT or Citadel with the V6 engine sufficient — they're more economical. R/T and SRT buyers opt for the V8's power and dynamism.
Pros
- Spacious, seven-seat interior
- High towing capacity
- Wide range of engines
- Quite comfortable ride
Cons
- V8 versions have high fuel consumption
- The choice of parts and servicing in Lithuania is more limited
- It's essential to thoroughly check the history of an imported car
Frequently asked questions
Is the Durango officially sold in Lithuania?
No, it's imported from the US, so before buying, check the availability of parts and servicing options.
Which engine is best for a used Durango?
The more economical and usually sufficient option is the 3.6 l Pentastar V6. If you want more power, go for the 5.7 l Hemi V8, but it consumes more fuel.
Does the Durango have seven seats?
Most versions have seven seats, but some trims offer the option of six.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
