What chassis is the Durango built on?
The Dodge Durango is a popular and capable SUV that has been a staple in the Dodge lineup for over two decades. One of the key factors that contributes to the Durango's performance and versatility is the chassis it is built upon. So, what chassis is the Durango built on?
The Durango's Shared Platform
The Dodge Durango is built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This shared platform, known as the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform or the WL platform, has been used by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) for several of its SUV and crossover models since the mid-2010s.
The WL platform is a unibody construction, which means the body and frame are integrated into a single structure. This design provides a balance of strength, rigidity, and weight savings compared to traditional body-on-frame construction. The WL platform also features independent front and rear suspension, which helps improve the Durango's handling and ride quality.
Key Features of the WL Platform
Some of the key features and characteristics of the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform that underpins the Dodge Durango include:
- Unibody construction for a balance of strength and weight savings
- Independent front and rear suspension for improved handling and ride comfort
- Available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations
- Capable of supporting a range of engine options, from V6 to V8 powertrains
- Designed to accommodate a variety of body styles, from two-row to three-row SUVs
The shared platform allows FCA to leverage economies of scale and streamline production, while still offering distinct models like the Durango and Grand Cherokee that cater to different customer needs and preferences.
The Evolution of the Durango
The Dodge Durango has undergone several generations of redesigns and updates since its introduction in 1998. While the platform has remained the same, the Durango has evolved to keep pace with changing market demands and customer expectations.
From the original body-on-frame design to the current unibody construction, the Durango has maintained its reputation for capability, comfort, and style. The shared platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee has allowed Dodge to continuously refine and improve the Durango, making it a compelling choice in the competitive SUV segment.
What vehicles are in the same class as Dodge Durango?
Cars similar to 2025 Dodge Durango
- 2025 Dodge Durango. #49 in Crossover SUVs.
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- 2025 Hyundai Palisade. #2 in Large SUVs. Get Your Price.
- 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee. #5 in Mid-Size SUVs. Get Your Price.
- 2025 Kia Telluride. #1 in Large SUVs.
- 2025 Nissan Pathfinder. #5 in Large SUVs.
Is a Durango the same as a grand cherokee?
No, the 2021 Dodge Durango and Jeep® Grand Cherokee L are two different SUVs for sale and are manufactured by different companies. Both vehicles offer seven seats, have similar engines, and have comparable horsepower and performance in the base model.
What platform is the Dodge Durango built on?
Now in its third generation, the Dodge Durango is currently built on the same platform as it's cousin, the Jeep Grand Cherokee. With a unibody structure and assembled right here in the United States in Detroit Michigan, the Dodge Durango is truly an all-American SUV.
Are the Durango and Grand Cherokee the same platform?
For years, the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee shared the same platform. Shoppers who wanted a three-row SUV would opt for the Durango, while those seeking a more rugged, two-row offering would head in the Jeep's direction.
Does a Chrysler 300 have a Mercedes suspension?
While the suspension was revised, the front suspension is still derived from the design of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) and the 5-link rear design from the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211). Production ended on December 8, 2023.
Is a Dodge Durango built on a truck chassis?
The Durango was also among the first unibody crossover SUVs on the market to feature three rows of seats. However, the new-generation 2024 model marks a return to the vehicle's roots: the Durango will once again ride on a truck platform with a separate chassis (like the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer).
Is the Durango a body-on-frame?
While the first two generations of Dodge Durangos were body-on-frame three-row SUVs, the third generation that debuted for the 2011 model year placed the Durango on a unibody architecture.
Are the Durango and Grand Cherokee the same?
No, the 2021 Dodge Durango and Jeep® Grand Cherokee L are two different SUVs for sale and are manufactured by different companies. Both vehicles offer seven seats, have similar engines, and have comparable horsepower and performance in the base model.
Is the Durango on a Mercedes platform?
The Durango was originally modeled after the small Dakota pickup truck, but after Dodge merged with Daimler Benz, the Durango was switched over to a Mercedes platform like the rest of the automaker's lineup.
What is the GMC version of the Durango?
Both the Dodge Durango and GMC Acadia offer an incredible amount of power with their respective engines. The Dodge Durango starts out with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that pushes to 295 horsepower while the GMC Acadia base engine, a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, falls way behind at 193 horsepower.
