The Dodge Durango is uniquely performance-tuned. Its exterior body design is reminiscent of the Dodge muscle car. But this SUV bargain for families has a spacious cabin and family friendly seating for up to 7. Plus, available features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rear entertainment system. For anyone swapping their Charger or Challenger for a family sized SUV, the Durango won’t disappoint. The Dodge Durango isn’t just the cheapest SUV you can get with a V8; it’s fun to drive, too.

V8 engine upgrade options

Power enthusiasts will already know that the Dodge Durango comes standard with a nice V6 that will please the average driver. But, for those looking for a little something extra, and engine upgrade to one of the available V8 motors will propel with more horsepower and torque. If you’re hunting for a family vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice performance-tuned power and handling for safety and amenities, you need to go test drive a Dodge Durango.

The bargain

According to US News and World Report, the 2020 Dodge Durango equipped with a V8 starts at $44,395. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine comes standard in addition to performance-tuned steering. Plus, the base level R/T gets a rear load-leveling suspension. If you compare this starting price to the V8 SUV that tied with the Durango for fifth best on the US News list, you really start to see what a bargain it is. The Mercedes Benz G-Class goes for $130,900. Even the Durango SRT, which starts over 60 grand, is a bargain compared to a 2020 G-Class.

The Chevy Tahoe is a V8 SUV on the US News list that is more comparable in price. However, the 2020 V8 Tahoe –– which starts at $49,000 –– gets slightly lower gas mileage than the Durango. A few extra miles per gallon makes any deal sweeter. Especially when you plan to employ the vehicle as the family’s daily driver.

Even cheaper if you lose the V8

The Dodge Durango offers the same muscular appearance and still generates ample power if you stick with the V6. In fact, Car and Driver suggests opting for the GT model “with its standard power-adjustable driver’s seat and standard third row. We’d also upgrade the second row to captain’s chairs.” Additionally, they recommend upgrading to the all-wheel drive system for $2,600. 

The V6 is more efficient, and still offers “adequate power without the price bump.” Plus, you don’t have to sacrifice style at all. In Car and Driver’s test the V6 achieved a 7.2 second sprint to 60. Whether powered by the V8 or the V6, this Dodge SUV provides a comfortable ride, lending to its family-friendly reputation. It’s a family SUV for under 50 grand “that’s both fun to drive and easy to live with.”

The 2020 Dodge Durango safety sacrifice

While we are impressed with the reviews of the 2020 Dodge Durango, the bargain doesn’t come without a sacrifice. The Dodge Durango easily outperforms others in its class, but not exactly in terms of safety. It earned only a Marginal rating for the IIHS driver’s side small overlap front test. the Durango’s headlights also received a Marginal rating for lackluster road illumination.

Standard safety

Additionally, options include front and rear parking sensors. Rear cross traffic alert, automatic high-beams, blind spot monitoring, and rain-sensing windshield wipers also available. More safety features include optional forward collision warning, emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. However, these features only come optional. The only standard safety feature for the 2020 Dodge Durango is its rear view camera.

The 2020 Dodge Durango is a “fun to drive” family SUV

The overall consensus here at MotorBiscuit is that the 2020 Dodge Durango is worth checking out. It’s a fun family SUV with unexpected power for its price point. While it sacrifices a little in the way of standard safety, it’s a great choice for the fam’s daily driver –– if robust looks and performance are high on your list of priorities.