The Final Year of the Dodge Durango: The End of an Era
The Dodge Durango has been impressing drivers since 1998. Bolder than most, it has offered adventurous families potent engines and rugged towing ability. This midsize SUV forged its own path, delivering a driving experience that rivaled the competition. If you’re asking, “will there be a 2025 Durango?” the answer is yes. 2025 is its curtain call — the final model year for this automotive icon. There’s no clear Dodge Durango replacement as of yet, but Dodge is potentially planning on bringing back a remodeled Dodge Stealth to be its replacement.
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A Look Back: The Evolution of the Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango story began in 1998 when Dodge introduced its midsize SUV. Built using the Dakota pickup’s chassis, it blended workhorse toughness with everyday versatility. A spacious interior, brawny V-8 engine, and impressive hauling abilities separated the first-gen Durango from competitors.
2004 ushered in the second generation. This update was defined by refined styling, higher-quality cabins, and a cutting-edge safety kit. But the headliner was the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, a powerplant that became a Durango hallmark.
Then came 2011’s overhaul. Dodge melded the Durango’s brawn with a smoother ride by shifting to a car-based unibody platform (shared with the Jeep Grand Cherokee). Entertainment tech such as the Uconnect infotainment modernized the experience, too, while the addition of the Hellcat trims offered something for real racing fans. From 1998 to the farewell 2025 model, the Durango represented Dodge’s ingenuity, performance pedigree, and customer focus. An iconic chapter closes, but the legend rolls on.
2025 Dodge Durango: What’s New?
Fresh off the assembly line, the 2025 Durango carries over from the 2024 Durango with few changes. The 2024 Durango boasts an array of cutting-edge enhancements meticulously engineered to leave a lasting impression. Every trim now flaunts the advanced Uconnect 5 infotainment system. A 10.1-inch touch-screen display immerses you in a seamless digital experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration ensure effortless smartphone connectivity. A restyled front fascia with an aggressive grille catches eyes. Redesigned LED headlamps emit a bright glow. Inside, premium materials and thoughtful ergonomics elevate cabin comfort to new heights.
Performance remains a Durango hallmark. The stalwart 3.6-liter V-6 propels the SXT trim with 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. However, adrenaline truly surges in the R/T’s optional 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, unleashing 360 horsepower and a robust 390 lb-ft of torque. This beast can tow up to 8,700 pounds with the Tow N Go package. For the power hungry, Dodge obliges with two scintillating SRT variants. The SRT 392 packs a thunderous 6.4-liter HEMI V-8, generating 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Then there’s the breathtaking SRT Hellcat and its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8, churning out 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque.
The 2025 Durango changes are just a smaller selection of trim options compared to the 2024 model year, with it only offering 10 instead of the 2024 Durango’s 15 trim options. The 2025 Durango will also be the last opportunity for customers to have the V-8 engine.
Choosing the Right Dodge Durango Trim
The iconic Dodge Durango enters its final year with a diverse lineup tailored to cater to your every need, whether you’re a performance junkie, off-road enthusiast, or luxury seeker.
Kicking things off, the SXT serves as an affordably priced gateway. 18-inch alloys, LEDs, and a power driver’s seat ensure a well-appointed cabin. One trim up, the GT adds creature comforts. The 20-inch wheels, power liftgate, and remote start offer improved convenience. The 10.1-inch screen and Uconnect 5 infotainment system elevate connectivity. The 2025 Dodge Durango only offers 2 GT trims, with those being the Dodge Durango GT and Dodge Durango GT Plus.
Craving adrenaline? The R/T obliges with its burly 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 that puts out 360 horsepower. This bruiser flaunts aggressive styling and a sport-tuned suspension. Sophistication defines the Citadel. Also available with a V-6, it pampers occupants with its Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. The 2025 Dodge Durango only offers 2 GT trims, with those being the Dodge Durango R/T Plus and Dodge Durango R/T Premium, along with two other R/T 20th anniversary trims..
For the ultimate thrill ride, look no further than the SRT trims. The 392 puts out 475 horsepower from its 6.4-liter HEMI V-8. But the crown jewel is the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V-8 — an insane 710-horsepower monster. The 2025 Dodge Durango only offers 3 SRT Hellcat trims, with those being the SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet, SRT Hellcat Hammerhead, and SRT Hellcat Brass Monkey.
The Impact of the Dodge Durango on the SUV Market
The Dodge Durango will leave an indelible imprint on the SUV world. This midsize dynamo shattered norms and reset benchmarks from day one, and its relentless evolution kept the industry on its toes.
This was most evident with the Durango’s potent engines for SUV buyers. The Durango’s three-row setup was ideal for large families, and the options for an upscale cabin or adventurous accessories catered to various people’s tastes. Competitors struggled to match this all-around capability.
Owners raved about the Durango’s seamless blend of muscle, comfort, and practicality. It embodied Dodge’s boldest ambitions. This trailblazer redefined what an SUV could be, and its legacy will inspire automotive innovation in the future.
What’s Next for Dodge Enthusiasts?
The final year of the Dodge Durango points to an exciting future as Dodge and other automakers move toward electric vehicles. Dodge boasts a rich heritage of pushing boundaries, and that’s not about to change with the introduction of new all-electric muscle cars for the 21st century.
Brand executives affirm electrification will uphold Dodge’s performance DNA. Thrilling dynamics will unite with eco-conscious engineering to entice a new generation of Dodge fans to get behind the wheel of its latest range of vehicles.
In essence, Dodge is determined to keep the spirit of muscle cars going, even if this means laying to rest its iconic gas-powered V-8s in favor of battery-powered setups that promise eye-watering horsepower. For the 2026 model year and beyond, Dodge fans ready to make the transition will have plenty of new models and trims to look forward to.
Drive Into the Future With Firkins Automotive
If you’re ready to be one of the last owners of a new Dodge Durango, we’re here to help. You can browse our online inventory or swing by our Bradenton location to arrange a test drive. If you require help with auto financing, our finance professionals will set you up with a loan or lease deal. We’re also here to answer any questions about the last edition of the Durango. Whether it’s the infotainment system or engine you want to know more about, let our experts help you get the information you need for your purchase.
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