Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Durango |
| Generation | Durango III (WD, facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 PENTASTAR V6 (293 Hp) TORQUEFLITE |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 165.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 293 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4000 rpm (260.36 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Pentastar |
| 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 | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.9 l (10.46 US qt | 8.71 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2128 kg (4691.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 820 kg (1807.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 487 l (17.2 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2410 l (85.11 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 | 5101 mm (200.83 in.) |
| Width | 1924 mm (75.75 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2172 mm (85.51 in.) |
| Height | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3042 mm (119.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1637 mm (64.45 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 207 mm (8.15 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18.5° |
| Departure angle | 21.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 16.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18; 265/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 20 |
The 2021 Dodge Durango with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and TorqueFlite transmission is a body-on-frame SUV designed to appeal to families and those needing towing capacity. The facelift brought a more aggressive front-end design and an upgraded interior, enhancing the Durango’s appeal in a competitive segment. This variant was a mainstay of the Durango lineup, offering a balance between affordability and capability. It’s built on the WD platform, a revised version of the original Durango III platform (introduced in 2011), and shares components with other Stellantis vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Durango is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, a mainstay of Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram vehicles for over a decade. This engine, designated as the Pentastar, utilizes a 60-degree V-angle and features a lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads. It employs multi-port fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s design prioritizes both power and efficiency. The TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, providing smooth shifts and contributing to improved fuel economy. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing for both strong acceleration and relaxed highway cruising. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.6-liter V6 and TorqueFlite combination provide adequate performance for everyday driving and towing. While not as quick as the Durango’s higher-performance variants (like the R/T or SRT), this configuration offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically takes around 7.5-8.5 seconds. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. Compared to manual transmission versions (which were discontinued earlier in the Durango’s lifecycle), the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in city driving. However, it may feel slightly less engaging for drivers who prefer more control. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel, although all-wheel drive is available as an option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2021 Durango 3.6L Automatic typically came standard with features like a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various appearance packages. Interior materials were generally durable and well-assembled, offering a comfortable cabin environment. The base trim focused on value, while progressively higher trims added more luxury and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The Durango’s chassis features a robust body-on-frame construction, providing a solid foundation for towing and off-road capability. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone design with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup. This suspension configuration aims to balance ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The Durango’s relatively heavy weight necessitates a strong braking system to ensure safe and controlled stops.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the 2021 Durango 3.6L for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong towing capacity. However, some reviewers noted that its fuel economy was not class-leading. Compared to other V6-powered SUVs in its segment, the Durango offered a competitive level of performance and features. The 3.6-liter engine provided a good balance between power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for many buyers. The TorqueFlite transmission was also well-regarded for its smooth operation and responsiveness. Compared to the Durango R/T with its 5.7-liter Hemi V8, the 3.6L offered better fuel economy but less outright performance.
Legacy
The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission have proven to be a reliable powertrain combination in the Durango. While some minor issues have been reported (such as oil consumption in certain Pentastar engines), the powertrain is generally considered durable and long-lasting. On the used car market, Durangos equipped with this powertrain represent a good value, offering a capable and comfortable SUV at a reasonable price. The 2021 facelifted models, in particular, are desirable due to their updated styling and technology. The Durango continues to be a popular choice for families and those needing a versatile SUV with towing capability.
