With the perfect balance between power and reliability, the sleek looking 2012 Dodge Durango is our pick for the Best SUV 2012 award. There are several things that we took into consideration that should make the Durango attractive to SUV buyers this year. Let’s get into them…
Reliability
Before we get into the particular specs of the Durango, I want to take a moment and comment on what is likely the most important aspect when it comes to a new SUV purchase – reliability. It’s worth mentioning that the big three Detroit automakers (Ford, GM, and Chrysler) have been making amazing progress over the past couple years and now most of their models compete very favorable to other auto manufacturers.
The Dodge Durango has been equipped with the same chassis as the popular Jeep Grand Cherokee to improve its ride and the way it handles rough terrain and difficult road conditions. If you have test driven a Durango in the past, it’s now time to give it a second opinion.
Powerful Engine
The Durango comes equipped with a V6 Penstastar that provides 290 horsepower with a terrific RPM of 6400. Chrysler really take pride in the power of this puppy, especially the upgraded Hemi V8 and its 360 horsepower engine. What does that mean in layman’s terms? Whether you want a 7 passenger SUV for the family or you need a vehicle capable of towing a boat or trailer, you’re all set with this year’s super versatile Dodge Durango.
While a GM Tahoe can technically tow more, the amount you’ll pay for that slight upgrade in towing capacity is probably not worth it for the average SUV owner. The value you get for the power it delivers is what truly makes the Durango worthy of being named the best SUV 2012 in our opinion
Design
I’m not going to get into the design of the 2012 Durango too much as you can see it for yourself and form your own opinion, but personally as a SUV enthusiast it is nice to see some of the latest trends in cars being carried over to the SUV. In particular, the headlights have been given a makeover to look more trendy, and the body has been given a more sporty look. It still looks like a mean piece of metal, but now it has a sleeker look that makes it fit right in to the rest of the Dodge 2012 lineup.
Interior
Dodge spared no expense to the interior designs on the 2012 Durango. The materials are soft to the touch and add a high quality feel. Now you don’t have to buy it for the power and precision towing capability of the SUV and then stress trying to fit your family comfortably inside. With a keen eye given to cup holders and arm rests, the interior design of the vehicle makes it a comfortable ride in its own right.
The Durango makes an excellent vehicle to take your family to the store. It has plenty of room in the trunk area for groceries and other everyday essentials. However, if you need the space to move some serious loads, the Dodge delivers. You can fold down the back seats for an enormous 85 feet of storage space (enough for a loveseat!), and there’s a bunch of storage space fitted throughout the cab.
Price
The Dodge Durango wouldn’t make our cut as the best SUV 2012 has to offer if it didn’t come as an excellent value. Anyone can build the perfect SUV, but to do it at a price point affordable by the average American family is what makes this one a winner. The price starts at just under $31,000 for the standard model, and goes up for increases in engine power and luxury options. The best way to find out what it will cost is to do your research on the options and find out what discounts are being offered.