Is a Durango a good family car?
Yes, the Dodge Durango can be a solid family SUV for households that need three rows, substantial towing capability, and a rugged, practical feel. However, it’s not the best all-around choice for every family, especially if you prioritize the latest interior design, top-tier fuel economy, or the strongest safety technology in its class.
This article examines how the Durango stacks up for family use, focusing on seating and cargo space, comfort on long trips, performance and towing, fuel economy, safety features, and how it compares with key rivals. We’ll help you decide whether it fits your family's needs now and into the coming years.
What makes the Durango appealing to families
The following points highlight why some families might choose a Durango over other three-row SUVs.
- Seating for up to seven people with flexible second-row configurations (bench or captain’s chairs) and a usable third row for kids or smaller adults
- Strong engine options, including a V6 and a powerful V8, which support confident everyday driving and towing
- Competitive towing capacity for a midsize family SUV, useful for boats, campers, and trailers
- Relatively straightforward, user-friendly infotainment and controls
- Solid value in the three-row segment, especially for buyers who prioritize capability over max efficiency
Taken together, these strengths make the Durango a practical choice for families who regularly carry multiple passengers and need to haul gear or haul a trailer.
Practical considerations for family use
Here are key factors families should weigh when considering the Durango, from seating comfort to daily usability.
Seating, space, and cargo
The Durango offers three rows, with a configurable second row and a third row that works best for children or short trips for adults. Cargo space is competitive for a three-row SUV, but once the third row is in use, the loading area shrinks noticeably compared with two-row crossovers. Overall, families should expect adequate, but not class-leading, space for groceries, sports gear, and strollers.
Performance and towing
The Durango’s available V6 and V8 engines deliver strong acceleration and confident highway passing power, with the V8 especially appealing for towing or pulling larger loads. For families who frequently haul trailers or boats, the Durango offers ample towing capability, though this comes at the cost of fuel economy and higher running costs compared with some rivals.
Fuel economy and maintenance
Fuel economy is a notable drawback in the Durango lineup, particularly with the V8. Expect lower miles-per-gallon compared with many modern three-row crossovers. Maintenance costs are generally in line with other large SUVs, but long-term reliability varies by model year and usage. Prospective buyers should check service history and consider an extended warranty if planned ownership includes heavy use.
Safety and reliability
Safety features and crash-test results can influence a family’s decision. The Durango offers common driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert on higher trims or packages, but the availability and sophistication of these features can vary by model year. Reliability surveys for the Durango are mixed, with some model years showing solid value and others presenting more frequent maintenance needs or deficiencies relative to class leaders.
Alternatives to the Durango
Families who want a more modern interior, better efficiency, or enhanced safety tech might consider these rivals. The following list contrasts Durango strengths with what these competitors typically offer.
- Honda Pilot
- Toyota Highlander
- Kia Telluride
- Hyundai Palisade
- Ford Explorer
- Chevrolet Traverse
For buyers who place a premium on interior refinement, passenger comfort, and high-tech safety features, these alternatives often provide a more polished experience while still delivering family practicality.
Summary
The Dodge Durango remains a capable family SUV for households that need three rows, strong pulling power, and a rugged, straightforward package. It is best suited to families who value seating flexibility and towing capability over the newest interior design, highest fuel efficiency, or cutting-edge safety technology. If those qualities align with your priorities, the Durango is worth test-driving; if you seek the most efficient, quietest, or most feature-rich option, consider some of its key rivals in the three-row SUV segment.
