Dodge introduced the Durango in 1997 as a midsize SUV. Like most SUVs at that time, the Durango was based on a pick-up truck, the Dodge Dakota, using a body-on-frame construction. During the first generation of the Durango (1997-2003), two-wheel, four-wheel or all-wheel drive, and a V6 or V8 engine, were offered.

The second-generation Durango, also based on the Dakota, debuted in 2004. It was a larger, full-size SUV with an updated coil-spring rear suspension system. A gas-electric hybrid model, the Durango Hybrid, was also briefly available in 2009. As the world financial crisis hit, and demand for SUVs dropped, Dodge discontinued production of the Durango with the 2009 model.

In 2011, Dodge introduced the third generation Durango. Built at the same assembly plant as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, it shares the Grand Cherokee’s chassis parts, powertrain and running gear. It offers a V6 engine as standard, with V8 available as an upgrade. The Durango was given a fresher look and an eight-speed automatic transmission in 2014.

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration receives numerous complaints about the Durango and manufacturer recalls are frequent (see the recalls and complaints for 2016; 2017; 2018; 2019.)