The 1998 Dodge Durango sought to do for SUVs what the Dakota did for pickups: strike a balance between the heavy-duty loads and cargo space of a big truck, and the parkability and handling of a small truck. It was billed in press statements as a 'Smart-Size' SUV, but Dodge also classified it as a compact SUV so it would have the most powerful engine, largest interior, and highest towing capability and hauling capacity, with seating for up to eight people, making it the only "compact" with that capability.



Built in Newark, Delaware, the hallmark of the Durango is the 245-horsepower, 335 ft.-lb. of torque, 5.9-liter Magnum V-8 engine, the biggest in its class. In addition, a 5.2-liter Magnum V-8 (230 hp, 300 ft.-lb. of torque) and a 3.9-liter Magnum V-6 (175 hp, 225 ft.-lb. torque) were available. The 5.2 and 5.9 were later replaced by the 4.7 V8. All three engines came with a four-speed automatic, with a fifth kickdown gear showing up with the 4.7. Both two and four wheel drive models were sold. Gas mileage, however, was barely better than GM's full-sized Suburban.

The 5.9-liter Magnum V-8 delivers a segment-best 7,300 lbs. maximum tow rating when equipped with an optional Class IV hitch - more than some of the full-size SUVs. 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 hidden storage compartment behind the rear axle, while a second, and larger, compartment replaces the foot well when the optional third-row seat is not ordered.



A widened Dakota chassis allows for more interior room and a larger gas tank. The full-size spare tire is underneath the vehicle, creating more cargo room. Durango's roof is raised nearly two inches from the second seat back to increase passenger headroom and visibility. The rear seats are a comfortable area for passengers and - when re-positioned - are a flat load floor. The second row seats fold and tumble forward, providing easy third-row access for passengers or improved storage capability. The optional third row folds in conjunction with the second row to form a flat surface from the tailgate to the front seats.

Read about:

Overview of the interior, including the development story
Enough details about the Dodge Durango interior to choke a horse
Electrical and electronic systems
Towing and hauling; chassis development; the frame; suspension and brakes
Body exterior including doors and windows
Specifications
Dodge Durango safety and environmental features
Firsts
Serviceability and maintenance
Dodge Durango powertrain and powetrain electrical systems
The engineering and design story:
Supplier partnerships - $74 million saved before production
Dodge Durango teamwork leads to quick development
Dodge Durango simultaneous design and engineering
(We split up these pages because this page was just too big!)

Durango market researchIn addition to current SUV owners, Dodge's consumer studies included comments from current car, truck and minivan owners. Unmet needs ranged from vehicle performance to passenger comfort. After careful study, issues were prioritized to address three primary areas: interior space, ride and handling and capability.

For interior space, studies revealed an overwhelming desire for spaciousness and versatility. Customers wanted their SUV to have the ability to comfortably transport more passengers and effectively haul more gear without having to purchase an over sized SUV. Durango offers three rows of seats for up to eight forward-facing passengers, the most interior space in the compact sport-utility vehicle market. When rear seats are folded down, there is 88 cubic feet of space available for hauling which is also best-in-class.



Customers indicated a strong desire for their SUV to have the power and robustness of a truck. Durango offers three engines size choices including a 5.9-liter Magnum V-8, the most powerful engine in its class. For hauling and towing, Durango offered the best-in-class capabilities with a 7,300 lb. tow rating and a maximum payload of 1,800 pounds.

In addition to power, research also indicated a need for smooth ride and agile handling in the SUV market. By building Durango on a stiffened Dodge Dakota chassis, engineers were able to give Durango nimble handling, tighter steering and greater maneuverability.

"After we uncovered and addressed these primary unmet needs in the SUV marketplace, we knew what we had to accomplish with our advertising campaign," said Fisher. "We focused on communicating how Durango offers the most power, capability and interior space than any other vehicle in its class."