Used 2005 Dodge Durango Consumer Reviews
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GET ALL THE OPTIONS INCLUDING THE HEMI
We're previous Durango owners but the '05 Limited Hemi is a complete turnaround from the '03 we owned. It's comfortable, it's roomy, the DVD is a must have. The Navigation is awesome, the Sirius Satelite is great, and Dodge even pays for the 1st year! The Hemi is AWD. We have all of the options and don't regret it one bit. It rides smooth, handles great, looks sharp and WE LOVE IT! The gas mileage is ok being a previous V-8 owner. THe Hemi definetly adds a little more pizazz to the enitre package. It's fast and responsive on an open highway! We love it!! There are many more options, too many to name but all in all... WE HAVE THEM ALL!!! AND WE LOVE IT!!
Confussing models
I had an '05 SLT last year tradeed for a limited. The limited has a lot better quality upgrades such as the leather is softer, the door panels are a thin softer material but still way too much plastic, rides real smooth. The models are too confussing. My 05' SLTcame with leather, 4.7, hub caps, no overhead console for gas and mileage read out etc. All SLT's should come with mag wheels and overhead readouts. The limiteds should come with everything. My limited is missing tow, dvd, nav, hemi, chrome wheels. Why is it called a limited?
- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,922240 mi away
- SLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,990319 mi away
- SLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,495334 mi away
Quick, Big & Fun
Great SUV to drive, has a tight turning radius and a very comfortable ride. The power of the HEMI is amazing (HEMI was not an option for this rating) and the acceleration gets you going. The DVD Player would do better with a few controls mounted lower like the AV ports and a parental lock on the player. The wireless headphones are so-so. The fold down seating is not flat and could use some work. So far we really like it except the 13.5 MPG in the city.
Love my Durango
My Durango has EVERY available option, and I absolutely love this car, it's a good family car without looking like a family car. The HEMI does use a lot of gas and the gas mileage could be better but I think it's worth the little extra it costs to get the powerful engine.
'05 Durango
We own a 2000 Durango and really like it. The 2005 is totally redesigned and so much improved. The ride, handling and performance is excellent. I would like to see a voltmeter on the instrument panel. The exterior takes some getting used to, but does grow on you. The best part is the looks do separate it from the rest. The fuel mileage is not great, but about what I expected.
Fun to drive! I love it.
When I first test drove my car it was a match made in heaven. I loved it. It was smooth to drive. The steering is easy on my wrist. The whole big body was a plus. Also the DVD player
Terrible Gas Mileage
Im A Newer 2005 Durango Owner, So My Experience With The SUV Is Limited, But I Am So Dissapointed With The Fuel Mileage, I Was Wondering How Many Other People Were Experiencing This Same Issue. I`ve Owned Many Vehicles, Mid. And Full Size, But None That Got 11 Mpg. !!.I Drive About 60% Hwy. And 40% City, And I`m Averaging 11 Mpg. I Drive Very Easy, And Baby My Vehicles. For The Most Part I Really Like The Durango So Far, But I`ve Seen Huge Ford Excursions And Hummer H2`s Get 14.5 Mpg. Avgerage. Dodge And My Dealership Gave Me The Lame Excuse That Mpg. Depends On How The Person Drives The Vehicle. If I Drive Any Easier,Mopeds Will Pass Me! I Hope By Some Miracle My Mpg.Increases At Some Point
Awesome Car
I just traded my 04 SLT with leather and Hemi for a Limited with Hemi, sunroof, DVD, nav sys, I absolutely love it. It's fun to drive, it's comfortable, it's got that muscle look on the outside, I would recommend this car for everyone. It's a great buy for the price.
Durango, gas hogger
I think that the Durango is a real nice looking vehicle. The only thing that I don't like is the gas mileage. The tag on the vehicle said that I would get 19 in city and 24 on highway. They lied. I only get 15 in the city and about 14.5 on the highway. I made this purchase thinking that the gas mileage was not the greatest but it was ok. Now if I'd known that the gas mileage was 15 in city and 14.5 on highway, I would of looked for another vehicle. I'm not happy with the Durango.
Good Suv
Bought the Durango with Hemi for towing a 26' trailer. Generally does well except through the high desert states where it constantly shifts up and down even with the tow feature engaged. I can usually find a happy medium towing but not so here. Would probably do better with the 3:73 ratio differentials instead of the 3:92. Also maintenance is expensive requiring synthetic oil in rear differential. An exhaust manifold stud broke in the head @ 43,000 miles. Shop had replaced same one on another Hemi a month earlier. I don't mean to talk the rig down because I really do like the rig and enjoy driving with all the bells and whistles and great stability.
Goodbye Expedition
We need a large SUV with the kids and all . We purcased a Ford Expedition in late 2003 and it was the worst quality vehicle we have ever owned. After being in the shop more than home we traded the beast for a Dodge Durango. I must say the quality is perfect. The Dodge performs well and is a joy to drive. Living in New England it's all about handling in snow and adverse weather conditions and it's a true winner. On a recent long trip my kids didn't complain about comfort and truly enjoyed the superior DVD system (Ford's didnt work most of the time). If you're looking for an SUV don't buy until you check out the Durango!
Happy, but not completely satisfied.
For its cost, I think this is a very good vehicle. I have the Hemi engine and it has plenty of power for towing, etc., and the ride is exceptional for a AWD SUV. I love the "bluetooth" U- Connect phone option and the "Sirius" satelite radio. However, there are some things that bother me about it. The interior plastics look a little cheap and too dark. The leg room in the 2nd row is tight, especially in the center position, and I wish the the floor over the 3rd row would fold flat. I also miss the interior room of my old Yukon and having "Onstar" and daytime headlights. I've noticed the front door hinges appear to be loose, but they aren't, the atachment points are flexing for some reason.
Joseph Kirane owner
This vehicle was a dealer's when we purchased. We liked due to the room and durability of the seats. It has a smooth ride. Several months ago we were away from home when the car would not start due to something with the key. The vehicle would not start and had to be towed back to the dealership. Also the ABS light came on at 53,000 miles and needed to be replaced at $600 job by the dealer. Keys are $140 to replace and not dependable. The newer computer system they said is in the vehicle is a poor system and can cause these things to happen when there is actually nothing wrong. Too expensive to replace.
Best SUV
Most incredible ride I have ever had from an SUV. Rides like a Cadillac. Handles great. Hemi has plenty of power, and fuel mileage is what you should expect. In general we get 16.5 mpg. But just highway driving at 70 mph with cruise we get 21 mpg. Thats pretty darn good. Also, it tows our 8800 lb boat fine as far as power is concerned, but we had to add air bags inside the coil springs to get more weight to the front axle for better handling. Dodge should offer an airbag suspension leveling system like some other manufacturers. With 23,000 miles now we have had no problems and no complaints.
Great improvement
Excellent improvement over previous Durango. I traded a 2003 R/T and there is no comparison. Smooth ride, good seat comfort, great power, great handling, has every feature I could want on a vehicle. Poor MPG, but this was expected and it's no worse than comparable vehicles. The Hemi is worth the price. Still haven't warmed up to the front end styling, but the comfort and features overshadow any negatives. The back seat (second row) should be roomier for this size vehicle. Great vehicle overall.
Improving with Age
This is my 3rd Durango and I love it. The interior design is far superior to the Durango's of the past. Love the look of the vehicle from the front, but the rear leaves little to be desired. I've always had the upgraded V8 engine and I must say the HEMI hasn't brought the power that I expected. Although the response is good its just not what I've been accustomed to in previous models.
Good; not great
We replaced our 1999 Dodge Caravan in 2005 for a brand new Dodge Durango SLT 4x4 with the 4.7L V8. Immediately, we began having problems with the passenger side airbag. It would always say that it was turned off, even if there wasn't a light load in the front seat. The 4.7L V8, with only 235 HP, is no match for this heavy, almost full-size SUV. Acceleration is strong off the line, but lacks mid-range and passing punch. The interior is made of cheap plastics, and the fit and finish is not very good at all. We averaged (we replaced it in 2008 for a Ford Taurus X) 15.3 MPG with it, and with only 235 HP, you would think it would have been better.
Best All Around SUV
After 3 years of research, watching the market trends, evaluating every manufacturer and feature, I finally found the right price/performance ratio to make me part with my cash. Dodge only makes 1 SUV, and you can tell a lot of thought went into making this work for a wide range of buyers and needs.
Du-Rang-O
I've gone though several cars & I haven't been excited about buying a new car in about 10 years. I went with the "cheapie" model (SXT - no leather, no Hemi, no DVD player). I can't believe how nice this "cheap" model is. If you don't need the 3rd row seat, leather or DVD this is the way to go.
Great Tough Looking SUV but Pump Costly
Bought this Durango last month with 34,850 miles and couldn't wait to drive it off the lot. The reviews are pretty much 'spot on' with regards to the driving comfort, exterior styling and poor interior materials. I haven't had any problems with the vehicle and driving this silver Durango Adventurer SLT made me feel like a million bucks. Unfortunately, I will be selling this vehicle in the next month or so because I don't have that million bucks to keep feeding it gas. You can actually watch the 27 gallon tank, gas gauge move while driving. I knew the gas mileage was bad when I bought it, but didn't expect it to be 11 to 12 mpgs. It will be sad to see it drive away when I sell it.
Best SUV
I love my 2005 SLT Durango. I went with the V6 and love it. It has enough power for me. This is my 1st Dodge. We shopped around and found the Durango to be the best for the price.
Poor choice of an SUV
I bought this on a whim from a dealer that I had dealt with before. It was the biggest mistake I have ever made. I had a Kia before and would give anything to have it back. I can not trade because the value is so bad. The plastic on the seat belts keeps braking. You would think Dodge would give a box of the covers with each sale.
2005 Durango
Terrible build quality, cheap interior, horrible dealership experiences in the shop! Poor fit and finish outside. Sqeaking rattling piece of junk! Gas guzzler!
The Durango with bad gas mileage
The Durango has a good interior. But there are some things that you think about changing. First you can't see the front if you are small. That could be a problem in driving the car. Second I didn't even get a hemi and it's a living gas pig. Third where is the side skirts?
OK if you like basic truck ride
This vehicle is excellent towing large items. When all seats are down there is enough room to carry large items The engine is excellant. My navigation system has been replaced once and now it's not reading the disc again. Also the seats feel cheap along with everything else in the cabin. The only other problem is that both the driver and passenger side square piece breaks easily.
My 2005 Dodge Durango
I got a great deal on this vehicle from the dealership. Within the first few months, I had to have the gas tank replaced. However, this was a recall item and the dealership was very helpful and courteous in getting it replaced. Other than that, it's been a joy to own. It rides just as good, if not better, than a Honda or Toyota. Fuel efficiency is decent in the city for a vehicle this size - about 17mpg city. On the highway, I know I'm getting at least 22 mpg which is very decent for a vehicle of this size. This is definitely the best vehicle I've ever owned!
Old Goat
2005 Dodge Durango Limited 5.7l Hemi Well over 315,000 miles and still running. From its brand new 2005 purchase up to today. 2 owner vehicle. First owner being military and traveling cross country. Maintained it well. Only issues it has is that the camshaft position sensor keeps going off. Sensor has been changed. But I believe it to be an electrical issue? Maybe with the wiring being so exposed to the heat. Correct me if I’m wrong. Please! No other issues other than ABS light of course. Which means i may need a new module. Correct me if I’m wrong. Please! Other than that. Seems to be running just fine. I’m not a typical show off speeding type person. I go speed limit except on highways. I may go up to 80. MIGHT. I don’t like to push the engine and neither did the first owner (maybe on a newer vehicle i would). Change the oil and fluids as required. Use high mileage synthetic motor oil. Gotta take care of the investment and biggest necessity.
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- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Over 328,000 Miles!
Bought my 2005 Durango SLT new with 5,750 tow capacity, 4.7 V8 AWD and the 4 x 4 LOCK. Great shape. Purchasing a ReMan 4.7 this year. No engine problems but I owe it to the vehicle to treat it as it has treated our family.
Best SUV ever
This suv is the best SUV I have ever owned. I have driven a Chevy Suburban, Jeep Liberty and other sedans. Those were good, but this Durango has an extrememly smooth drive, powerful engine (without hemi), comfortable seats and good sound system. I love that the back doors open so wide which makes for easy storage and entrance. I have never had a single problem with this vehicle. A month after I bought the durango, my wife drove it and she bought one! Good to travel in and has great pick up. Also great in the Cleveland snow! Love it!
Wooooow 531,000 km
We bought our 2005 Durango, 5.7 hemi with all the bells and tokens that was available at that time. We always kept it well maintained and in shape. It is now 2020 and we are going to purchase another. We drove it with a lot of highway mileage from Lethbridge Alberta and figure we made 100 plus trips to the US. We only had one major problem and a broken fuel pump in Idaho at $1000 and the warranty had expired. We are still going to keep the older vehicle for short trips and in town. I was always a Chevy man until this 2005 durango and it changed my mind. The main thing was always upkeep of all parts. The main complaint was the accumulation of rust around the gas tank filler area. I noticed that most dodges of that era and earlier all had problems. I hope the new one stays free. DODGE ALWAYS. One sidebar. The 5.7 hemi has all the power needed when needed. As my dad stated, “ it would pass everything on the road except gas station. Also it got better gas mileage at 70-75 mph than 60-65. Thanks dodge. 5 stars. I would give more if I could
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
My Dodge
Our first trip was to Florida from Connecticut, about 1400 miles. We averaged 20 mpg using 89 octane and speeds set at 72 mph (cruise control) The doors leak air and cause a serious distraction when trying to listen to the radio at low volume. The car handles well and performed well. and the ride was pleasant for the most part. You are unable to roll the rear windows down at highway speeds. They flutter to the point where you think your ear drums are going to explode.
Durango Review
Even with the low gas mileage I have been very happy with my Durango. Not only is it a comfortable ride, it is also very capable in bad weather. The interior has a lot of room for extra passengers and with the 3rd row of seats folded down there is a lot of cargo space. Going on vacation with 2 adults and 2 children we had plenty of room for everything we packed along with a couple coolers. When extra space is needed to haul bigger items, the 2nd row also folds down. With both the 2nd and 3rd rows folded down we have even slept in the back when weather got bad while camping. Would highly recommend the Durango.
A great SUV
I have been driving the Durango for 2 weeks now and absolutely love it. This replaced a 1999 Isuzu Rodeo. It is very comfortable to drive and though it is large, it does not feel massive to me. The hood is short making it easy to see whats in front of you and good visibility makes is easy to park. The 4.7L V8 does what I expected with a 3 ton vehicle. It is not quick on the start, but does not feel like it is struggling. It has a great ride, handling, and turn radius for a truck. As for gas mileage, the overhead console says I average 15 on the street and 22 on the highway. I am use to driving SUVs and the Rodeo averaged 20mpg overall.
Digging the Durango
Superb vehicle! Leaps and bounds ahead of the previous style Durango. Hemi has everything you could want in a motor, can't complain about the gas mileage. It was posted on the sticker and was well known when it was rolled out. You can't expect 335 hp in a big SUV to compare to a Ford Escape in terms of mileage. Ride is smooth, handling is precise. Extremely quiet even at highway speeds. Could be more leg room in the 2nd row. Leather seats are high quality and heated seats are quick to warm. The transmission is slow to engage going from reverse to drive. Bad visibility looking over you shoulder due to the pillar being in the way. Good fit and finish, though glove box is too small.
all around suv HEMI
go with the hemi!
Please don't buy a durango.
Its a 2005 with 55k miles on it and its going back to the dealership or the 11th time! Now I have collant in the oil so I'm sure its going to be a major deal. Its already had cooling problems, stearing problems, stalling issues, and on and on. There is a reason the trade in value is 8500 for a 4 year old car with 55K. Please go to the link below before you buy a dodge or jeep. I realy hate that this is what dodge and jeep have become, I was a die hard jeep guy for the last 20 years but not any more.
dodge durango slt hemi
i bought a 04 durango with the 5.7 hemi engine i love t5o drive it it takes hills like they were not there. i think it has all the other suvs beat by a long shot.
2005 dodge durango
Good design. Lots of power .Fun to drive. Mileage not so good, but about as expected. More maneuverable than earlier Durango, even though it is larger.
2004 5.7 hemi durango
we love the durango. not boring, the drive is so smooth and quick. thank GOD we didn't have to buy a GM.
04 durango best you can buy 05 better
hemi v/8 enough said, fit & finish perfect, after selling fords & chevys for 35 years & dealing with my customers complaints, plus buying & dealing with many many trips to the warrantie [service] dept. it is indeed a pleasure to own a durango, my 1st was a 01 loaded durango slt, to harsh a ride, not as comfortable as I would like, what a treat the 04 is. the sound system is awsome, I ordered the upgrade 6 CD with sub-woofer, the transmission is so smooth you hardly ever notice it shift, other than poor mileage [all suvs] in this size get poor mileage, so why whine about it, I say get your hands on a new durango, 04 or 05 & be like my wife & I, just enjoy enjoy enjoy
power
this is my third durango better yet its a 2004 hemi it reacts when i react it turns head and its comfortable they did good with suspension but they could do better with the rear, breaking is good i have no complaints only complaint dodge should of made a R/T model keep up the good work
I'm in love with my Durango
I fell in love with this SUV, the way it moves (I'M NOW A HEMI FAN) It has POWER! Its doesn't drag.I am a realtor so I drive this vehicle a lot of miles. The V8 engine was not a good choice for gas purposes but the fact that when I want to move out of the way of slow people, the power of this vehicle is amazing!
Awesome SUV!!!!
The best car I've ever owned......
not enough room
there is nor room in the second row of seating at all the gas mileage is very poor the braking system is the worst my brakes make noise and the dealer tells me that is normal
Great Vehicle Great Customer Service
This is an all around great vehicle. Yes the plastic seat molds break, but like everything they cannot last forever. The ride is amazing and the power is extreme. I have the 5.7l V8 Hemi.The dealership is in Bloomington Indiana (Town and Country). I recommend going there. All of the sales team were really friendly, and I was not pushed (big one for me). First time Durango owner and I am oleased.
I love this truck
I enjoy my new Durango. This truck rides smoothly. It has horsepower and I enjoy my Infinty sound system, DVD, CD changer, and also my third row. My children say "we look down on people in the cars we are big." I'm very proud of Chrysler/Dodge. They finally stepped up and made a large SUV. Keep up the good work.
Excellent SUV
I love my truck - the obvious negative is the gas mileage, but everything else is a plus. Ride, handling, great interior, very comfortable. I would buy a Durango again.
Luv My Durango
My husband & I think our Durango is GREAT! I had my fill of the minivan, after having 3 of them! They served us well but it was time to move on! We had driven other SUV's and nothing compared to the ride we get from our Durango! It handles great, looks great and is fun to drive! On the negative side, it is a gas hog, especially with gas price high as it is now, but I think it is work it!
dodge durango limited 5.7l hemi
Love it, very quiet interior. Engine has very good range at any rpm. Very, very comfortable interior, excellent stere, needs more storage space, however. I have had owned Dodge vehicles for a long time, quality has improved on each vehicle.
Great SUV
This SUV rides better then any luxury car I've ever driven. I have the Hemi and it does not disappoint. This is a whole different SUV from the old style Durango. We love it.