Overview:
This is the 2016 Dodge Durango Limited Brass Monkey AWD. It came just in time to be available to transport a group of visiting guests. But it made me realize that most people don’t have the availability of every size vehicle for the occasion. I believe most of us make our choice that best fits our needs, instinctively. Surely this Durango would be fantastic for a large family, up to 7, in spite of the fuel consumption numbers. But all things considered 25 highway mpg is pretty good for its versatility.
General Information: It is assembled in Detroit, MI. Parts – US/Canadian 66%, Mexico 18%; Engine – Mexico & Transmission – USA; Classification is Standard SUV; Cars from Dodge: Challenger, Charger, Dart, Durango, Grand Caravan, Journey and Viper.
Handling & Performance:
This Durango surprised me while it handled the mountain Crest Test course with exceptional ease. I kept looking at my speed handling the sharp curves and steep climbs. It is especially good for a vehicle of this size.
Styling:
The Brass Monkey appearance package adds 20” Burnished Bronze wheels (thus Brass Monkey wheels), a gloss black grille with an exterior badge, body color door handles, exterior mirrors, front fascia, rear fascia, sills and wheel flares.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
The cost is relative to your available budget constraints, of course, but for me many of the features that I would want would add a few thousand to the base price of $39,500. Features such as Blind Spot and cross traffic detection and navigation I tend to use.
Conveniences and comfort:
I like the engine start stop technology so the engine will automatically limit idling when it is motionless. Another that I appreciate is the park sense back-up park assist with stop feature so you are less likely to bump into walls etc. It will apply the brakes when it senses an object in the way. Very useful things.
Consumer Recommendation:
If you need a large family van, this AWD SUV is a great all around versatile option. If budget doesn’t allow this option and you are in need of a ‘soccer mom’ vehicle and you don’t need off-road capability a van would be a better selection (in my view).
Recognized Competition:
Dodge Durango Ltd $41,000, Ford Flex $41,000, Kia Sorento $44,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $41,000, Honda Pilot $40,000, Mazda CX 9 $43,000, Nissan Murano $45,000, Buick Enclave $47,000, Ford Edge $41,000. Note: all are 7 seater except Jeep, Nissan and Ford Edge that are 5 seat and the Buick Enclave is an 8 seater.
Good News:
7-seating capable, decent fuel economy in class that is competitive with others in this segment.
Bad News:
A bit pricey.
Standard Equipment:
3.6 liter V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, , rotary shift knob, paddle shifters on wheel, selectable steering mode, electric power steering, rear back up camera, keyless and go push button start with remote start, park sense rear park assist with stop, front, side, and side curtain air bags, driver knee airbag, leather trimmed seating, LATCH rear child seat anchor system.
Gas Stats:
$2.69/ Gal avg. October 1, 2016
for more information.
18 City 25 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $39,595 (Base price before options – my test vehicle was equipped with options that add just under $10,000 to the base price).
