Loading

What is the difference between track and sport mode on the Durango?

The Dodge Durango, a popular SUV, offers two distinct driving modes: Track Mode and Sport Mode. These modes are designed to provide drivers with different performance characteristics, catering to various driving preferences and needs. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between these two modes and help you understand which one might be the best fit for your driving style.


Track Mode


The Track Mode on the Dodge Durango is designed to optimize the vehicle's performance for high-performance driving on a closed circuit, such as a racetrack. This mode is intended for experienced drivers who want to push the limits of the Durango's capabilities. When engaged, Track Mode makes the following adjustments to the vehicle's systems:



  • Suspension Tuning: The suspension is stiffened to provide a more responsive and precise handling feel, reducing body roll and improving stability at high speeds.

  • Steering Response: The steering becomes more direct and responsive, allowing for quicker and more precise inputs from the driver.

  • Throttle Mapping: The throttle response is sharpened, providing a more immediate and linear power delivery, which is essential for track driving.

  • Transmission Shifting: The transmission is programmed to hold gears longer and shift more aggressively, ensuring the engine is always in the optimal power band.

  • Stability and Traction Control: The stability and traction control systems are tuned to be less intrusive, allowing for more driver control and the ability to explore the limits of the vehicle's performance.


By optimizing these systems, Track Mode transforms the Durango into a more track-focused and performance-oriented vehicle, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy spirited driving on closed circuits.


Sport Mode


In contrast, the Sport Mode on the Dodge Durango is designed to provide a more engaging and responsive driving experience for everyday use, both on the road and in some light off-road situations. This mode is intended for drivers who want to enjoy a more dynamic and responsive driving feel without sacrificing the Durango's everyday practicality. When engaged, Sport Mode makes the following adjustments:



  • Suspension Tuning: The suspension is slightly firmer than the default setting, providing a more responsive and engaging feel, but without the harsh ride quality of the Track Mode.

  • Steering Response: The steering becomes more direct and responsive, allowing for quicker and more precise inputs from the driver.

  • Throttle Mapping: The throttle response is sharpened, providing a more immediate and linear power delivery, which can be beneficial for passing maneuvers or merging onto highways.

  • Transmission Shifting: The transmission is programmed to hold gears longer and shift more aggressively, keeping the engine in the optimal power band for a more spirited driving experience.

  • Stability and Traction Control: The stability and traction control systems are tuned to be less intrusive, allowing for a bit more driver control and the ability to explore the limits of the vehicle's performance, while still maintaining a safety net.


By making these adjustments, Sport Mode enhances the Durango's driving dynamics without compromising its everyday usability, making it a great choice for drivers who want a more engaging and responsive driving experience in their daily commute or weekend adventures.


In summary, the key difference between Track Mode and Sport Mode on the Dodge Durango is the level of performance optimization and the intended use case. Track Mode is focused on maximizing the vehicle's track-ready capabilities, while Sport Mode is designed to provide a more engaging and responsive driving experience for everyday use. Depending on your driving preferences and the type of driving you'll be doing, one of these modes may be better suited to your needs.

Is sport mode the same as track mode?


Once Sport+ or Track mode is activated, not only will it do everything “normal” Sport Mode does, but it will also tighten the front seat side bolsters (to make sure you don't slide out of your seat), the active exhaust will open up (allowing you to hear that heavenly engine note), and turn off all traction-related ...



What is the difference between track mode and sport mode on the Durango?


Track • Press the “Track” button on the touchscreen to provide the fastest shift speeds with the strongest comfort trade-off. Sport • Press the “Sport” button on the touchscreen to provide faster shift speeds with some comfort trade-off.



What is the difference between standard mode and sport mode?


When running your vehicle in Sport (S) mode, you can expect the following: Extra Braking: Specifically helpful for various grades of roads. Lower Gears: To optimize driving on hills and mountains. Shifting at Higher Engine Speeds: Your engine will run faster than when in Drive mode.



What does sport mode do on a Dodge Durango?


SPORT Mode's primary goal is to make a Durango more responsive to the driver's inputs. It accomplishes this by changing several parameters, and some include throttle sensitivity and, if necessary, the shift points. Switching to SPORT Mode makes the throttle more responsive for a razor-sharp reaction.


Kevin's Auto

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.