First Impression Road Test of the 2018 Dodge Durango SRT
There was a common phrase used in conversations among SRT engineers when I asked why they built a 7 passenger SUV with: a 6.4 liter Hemi, All Wheel Drive, Launch Control, Track mode, and 475 horsepower capable of doing 12 seconds on the quarter mile.
“Why not?” Is what they would say. After driving the Durango SRT at the 2017 Texas Truck Rodeo I have to admit that I see their point. The 2018 Dodge Durango SRT is an SUV that indulges the wants while also providing the needs. Putting the sport in sport utility vehicle. A vehicle that can tow a race car to the track, and then join it.
Interior
Like with all SRT products on the market today. Sitting inside the Durango means being hugged by massive bucket seats designed to hold you in place while experiencing g-force. In the Durango SRT the second row also gets a set of bucket seats to feel like a backseat racer. Not too many vehicles with track mode offer TV monitors and cup holders for their rear passengers. Even with a third row the Durango still offers plenty of cargo space in the back.
Up front you get Dodge’s easy to use infotainment system that allows you to customize your specific needs from seven different drive modes:
• Auto
• Sport
• Track
• Snow
• Tow
• Valet
• Eco
Or you can just press the SRT button underneath, and go have some fun.
Exterior
I can’t look at the front end of the 2018 Dodge Durango without thinking of a Star Wars storm trooper’s helmet. Whether that’s good or bad depends on the individual. However, if you like aggressive body lines and an exterior that will denounce all notion of suburbia mediocracy then the Durango checks all the right boxes. Hellcat inspired hood scoops, Brembo brake calibers peeking through a set of power coated wheels, and a shiny red 392 badge. It lets other people know that while this Durango may have cheerios in the cup holders, and car seats in the back, this family vehicle has a dark side with a killer exhaust note.
Specs. and Performance of the 2018 Dodge Durango SRT
“That thing got a hemi?” Yep, and that makes the Durango SRT one of the fastest SUV’s on the market. Its the most powerful SUV in America with the quickest ¼ mile time for a three row SUV at 12.9 seconds! Dodge didn’t just slap an SRT badge on an SUV and called a trim package. It’s not pretending to be something its not. The Durango SRT is a real rock n roller capable of turning it up to eleven if needed.
Launch control is easy to use. Shift into neutral and press the button. Then position the Durango in the direction you wish to blast off. Left foot on the brake, put your right foot on the gas, and push it to the floor. Listen to the 392 Hemi grunt and let go of the brake while keeping your foot on the gas. Make sure you’re ready for it otherwise you’ll feel your brain get thrown to the back of your skull. As the Durango SRT charges from 0-60 in 4.4 seconds you’ll need all the concentration you can muster to fully appreciate the thrill of going this fast in a vehicle this big.
Not to mention that the 2018 Durango SRT can tow up to 8,700 pounds, with a starting price of $62,995.
Final Thoughts on the Durango SRT
What this vehicle does is try to add flare to a compromise. Trying to prove that a vehicle used as a sign of growing up doesn’t have to get rid of its rebellious youth to make room for a third row. Those looking for a sensible three row passenger vehicle can look at the seemingly endless options on the market. Those looking for something that can make you look forward to morning commutes at the push of a start button need to look at the 2018 Dodge Durango SRT.
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Jesus Behind the Wheel 