The Dodge Durango III (WD) 3.6 V6, produced from 2010 to 2014, represented a significant return for the Durango nameplate after a hiatus of several years. This third-generation Durango, built on the Chrysler WK platform, aimed to blend the practicality of a three-row SUV with a more robust and capable character than its predecessor. The 3.6-liter V6 variant, generating 290 horsepower, served as the entry-level engine option, positioned below the more powerful 5.7-liter HEMI V8 and the high-performance SRT trims. It targeted families seeking a spacious SUV with decent power and a relatively affordable price point. This model year marked a shift towards a more refined and modern SUV experience for Dodge.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Durango |
| Generation | Durango III (WD) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (290 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 134.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4800 rpm (260.36 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3604 cm3 (219.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.9 l (10.46 US qt | 8.71 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2157-2225 kg (4755.37 – 4905.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 723-791 kg (1593.94 – 1743.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2390 l (84.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93.1 l (24.59 US gal | 20.48 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Length | 5075 mm (199.8 in.) |
| Width | 1925 mm (75.79 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2172 mm (85.51 in.) |
| Height | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3043 mm (119.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 207 mm (8.15 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.3° |
| Departure angle | 21.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18; 265/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Durango variant is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine, designated as the engine code EN, is a 60-degree V6 featuring a lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine employs a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 3.6L Pentastar is known for its smooth operation and relatively good fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (845RE), a crucial component in maximizing fuel economy and providing smooth gear changes. This transmission offered a wide gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate efficiently at both highway speeds and during acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6L V6 Durango offered a comfortable and capable driving experience, though it wasn’t designed for outright speed. With 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and highway merging, but noticeably slower than the HEMI-equipped models. The eight-speed automatic transmission helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but passing maneuvers required more planning. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, while available four-wheel-drive systems enhanced traction in inclement weather. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a relatively smooth ride. However, the Durango’s substantial weight (over 4,700 pounds) was always apparent, especially during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 Durango typically came standard with features like three-row seating for seven passengers, air conditioning, a basic audio system, and power windows and locks. Higher trim levels, such as the Limited, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, a sunroof, and various driver-assistance technologies. The interior design was generally functional and well-built, though the materials used in the base trims were more utilitarian.
Chassis & Braking
The Durango III utilized a robust body-on-frame construction, providing a solid foundation for its size and weight. The front suspension featured an independent wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link design. This configuration aimed to balance ride comfort with handling stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The Durango’s substantial weight necessitated a capable braking system to ensure safe and controlled stops.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Durango III for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and improved refinement compared to previous generations. However, the 3.6L V6 engine was often seen as underpowered for such a large SUV, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Compared to the 5.7L HEMI V8, the V6 offered significantly less power and towing capacity. However, it did provide better fuel economy, making it a more attractive option for buyers prioritizing efficiency. The V6 Durango was often positioned as a value-oriented choice, appealing to families who didn’t require the extra performance of the HEMI.
Legacy
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain, and Durango models equipped with this engine generally hold up well over time. While not known for exceptional longevity, the engine is relatively easy to maintain and repair. In the used car market, the 3.6L Durango represents a relatively affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and capable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s potential for oil consumption and the importance of regular maintenance. The Durango III, particularly the V6 models, helped re-establish the Durango nameplate as a competitive player in the three-row SUV segment.
