Dodge Charges Ahead with Durango SRT

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV will take the wraps off the high-performance Dodge Durango SRT later this week at the Chicago auto show.

Billed as a seven-seat Dodge Charger, the 2018-model crossover will be powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 that makes 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. Currently the highest output Durango with a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is rated at 360 hp and 390 lb-ft.

The SRT variant also gets a specially tuned version of the 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system offered in other Durango models. Dodge says the Durango SRT can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and clocks a quarter mile in 12.9 seconds.

Buyers will receive a one-day lesson on performance driving at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Chandler, Ariz.

The Durango SRT’s towing capacity is listed at 8,600 lbs, which Dodge says is best in class and 1,200 lbs more than the most capable 2017 Durango. Other goodies include high-performance Brembo brakes and a new exhaust system tuned to provide an exhaust note modeled after the Dodge Charger SRT.

Drivers can choose between seven driving modes to adjust performance and comfort settings. Sport mode cuts shift times by as much as 50% compared with street mode, according to Dodge. The other modes are track—with even quicker shifts—snow, tow, valet and eco.

The Durango also gets a stiffer suspension, with springs that are 3% tighter up front and 16% stiffer in back than the base model. A redesigned hood features cold-air duct and heat extractors to help cool the engine and boost performance.

Other styling changes include new front fascia LED fog lamps and more air vents, a mesh grille and wider wheel flares. At the rear, a body-color lower fascia houses dual round exhaust tips and an AWD badge is on the tailgate.

The interior features a flat-bottom steering wheel, paddle shifters and an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen. A T-shaped electric shifter replaces the base Durango’s rotary knob. Performance seats also are available.

Due this summer, the Durango SRT will join SRT versions of the Dodge Charger, Challenger and Viper. The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is expected to be dropped as SRT becomes specific to the Dodge brand.