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Is the Dodge Durango AWD all the time?

The Dodge Durango’s all-wheel-drive system is not active all the time. For most buyers, two-wheel drive is available as a standard option on many trims, with AWD offered as an upgrade or standard on higher-performance variants. The system is typically designed to operate automatically, engaging the front wheels when traction is needed, rather than running with permanent four-wheel drive.

Drivetrain options across the Durango lineup

To understand how often AWD is engaged, it helps to know how the Durango’s drivetrain is offered across trims. The following points summarize the general approach, though specifics can vary by model year and market.

SXT: Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option for buyers who want enhanced traction.

GT: AWD is available as an option on many model years, giving customers a choice between 2WD and 4x4 based on preference and climate.

RT: All-wheel drive is commonly offered and can be selected by buyers who need better grip in rain, snow, or uneven terrain.

Citadel: This higher trim level frequently comes with AWD as standard or as a readily chosen option, depending on the year, delivering stronger traction as a default expectation.

SRT: Performance-focused variants use AWD to manage higher power output, with traction assistance built into the package.

Durango SRT Hellcat: AWD is standard, and there is typically no 2WD option, reflecting the model’s emphasis on maximum power handling.

In short, if you want AWD, you’ll generally find it available on a broad swath of Durango trims, but base models often default to rear-wheel drive. Always check the exact configuration on the window sticker or dealership briefing for your specific year and trim.

How the AWD system behaves in daily driving

Understanding how the system operates helps set expectations for everyday use and fuel economy. The Durango’s AWD is designed to be unobtrusive most of the time, kicking in when extra grip is needed.

Most Durangos use an on-demand or auto AWD setup. The system normally sends power to the rear wheels and automatically transfers torque to the front axle if wheel slip is detected, improving stability without requiring driver input.

In poor weather or low-traction conditions, the front wheels engage as needed to maintain traction, often without the driver noticing a switch in drive mode.

High-performance variants (such as SRT models) are tuned to handle more power and may feel more noticeable in how power is distributed, but they still operate as AWD rather than a permanent 4x4 lock.

Fuel economy tends to be lower with AWD versus a pure RWD setup, since additional components are engaged and the system weighs more, though modern designs aim to minimize efficiency losses.

For most daily driving, the Durango’s AWD remains a seamless feature that enhances safety and capability when needed, rather than a constant on-rush of power to all wheels.

Bottom line on the drivetrain choice

Ultimately, the Durango offers a mix of 2WD and AWD across trims, with AWD being common on higher trims and standard on certain performance-focused variants. If all-wheel drive is a priority, you’ll find it readily available on most of the newer Durango lineup, but on entry-level configurations, you may start with rear-wheel drive and opt into AWD.

Summary

The Dodge Durango’s AWD is not universal in the sense of always being engaged. Across model years, base versions often come with RWD as standard while AWD is offered as an option or standard on higher trims, especially the performance-oriented models. The system is typically automatic, prioritizing front-wheel engagement only when traction is needed, which means you’ll generally experience AWD only when conditions call for it. For buyers focusing on traction and performance, several trims provide AWD as a default or easily selectable choice, including the SRT family where power handling benefits from AWD.

Can you turn off AWD on Durango?

To open the trunk of the Dodge Durango, simply press the liftgate button on the center overhead console and the power liftgate will open. HOW DO YOU TURN OFF ALL-WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) ON A DODGE DURANGO? To turn off AWD on a Dodge Durango, press and hold the AWD lock button located on the dashboard.

How does AWD work on a Dodge Durango?

The Dodge Durango's all-wheel drive (AWD) system is an intelligent, full-time system that automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels for optimal traction and stability. It is a rear-wheel-drive biased system, meaning it typically sends power to the rear wheels and only engages the front wheels when slip is detected, which can provide a sportier feel. For enhanced capability in extreme conditions, some models feature a Select-Trac® II four-wheel drive system that includes a low-range 4WD mode for maximum torque multiplication on rough terrain or steep grades.
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2022 Dodge Durango's AWD system and how it performs in snow: 50sGroup 4 CarsYouTube · Jan 20, 2023
Automatic operation and performance

Real-time power distribution: The system constantly monitors traction and automatically sends power to the wheels that need it most, enhancing grip on slippery surfaces like snow, ice, or rain.
Rear-wheel drive bias: The system is designed with a rear-wheel-drive bias, which means it defaults to sending power to the rear wheels for a more sporty driving experience. It engages the front wheels only when necessary.
SPORT mode: Engaging the SPORT mode can change the AWD system's behavior by sending more power to the rear wheels during hard acceleration and cornering, providing a more dynamic feel.

Select-Trac® II four-wheel drive system

Two-speed transfer case: Certain trims, especially higher-performance models, may come with the Select-Trac® II system, which includes a two-speed, on-demand transfer case.
4WD AUTO: In 4WD Auto mode, the system automatically anticipates and prevents slip by redirecting torque without driver input.
4WD LOW: The system also has a 4WD Low mode, which multiplies engine torque by 2.722.722.72 times and locks the clutch pack for maximum traction in challenging situations like steep grades or rough terrain.
Electric shifting: Shifting between 4WD Auto and 4WD Low is done electronically for smooth operation.

This video explains how the Select-Trac II 4WD system on the Durango works: 1mDriving Sports TVYouTube · Feb 12, 2019
Key takeaways

The AWD is an automatic system that enhances traction without driver input.
It is designed for both on-road and light off-road use, but some models with the Select-Trac® II system are better equipped for more difficult off-road conditions.
The system is different from a traditional four-wheel-drive (4WD) system in that it does not require the driver to manually engage or disengage it for everyday driving. However, models with Select-Trac® II add a low-range 4WD mode for off-road situations.

What is the most common problem with Dodge Durangos?

Transmission Problems
Transmission issues are common in 2021-2025 Dodge Durango models. Many owners report hard shifting, transmission slipping, and overheating.

Does AWD activate automatically?

The biggest advantage of an AWD system is that you don't have to manually switch modes. In AWD systems, all four wheels are rotating full time, and when there is a sudden loss of traction, it immediately transmits power where it is required.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.