What year did Dodge Durango change body style?
The Dodge Durango changed its body style in 2004, when Dodge introduced the second generation. This marked a shift from the original, boxier design to a more rounded, modern SUV silhouette. This article explains the evolution of the Durango’s exterior across generations and what that change signified for the model.
Generational shifts and styling milestones
Below is a concise timeline showing when Dodge redesigned the Durango’s exterior and how each generation differed in styling.
- First generation (model years 1998–2003): The original Durango featured a boxy, rugged exterior typical of late-1990s SUVs, with a traditional truck-based look.
- Second generation (model years 2004–2009/2010): A clear departure from the first generation, the 2004 redesign introduced smoother, more rounded lines and a modernized silhouette that appealed to buyers seeking a less truck-like appearance.
- Third generation (model years 2011–present): Launched in 2011, this generation moved to a more refined, contemporary design and shared development with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, incorporating a more upscale interior and updated technology. The styling received mid-cycle refreshes, notably around 2014, to keep the look current without a full redesign.
In summary, the most prominent body-style change occurred with the 2004 model year when the Durango shed much of its boxy, traditional SUV look for a sleeker, more modern exterior. Since 2011, the Durango has continued in a more modern styling direction with periodic refreshes rather than a complete new body redesign year.
Why these styling changes happened
Automotive makers routinely update exterior designs to align with market trends, improve aerodynamics, and differentiate models within a brand. For the Durango, the 2004 change coincided with a broader shift toward more car-like SUVs, while the 2011 redesign aligned the model with the evolving Jeep Grand Cherokee platform and a more upscale interior to compete in the three-row SUV segment.
Key styling milestones at a glance
To highlight the major moments without getting lost in detail, here are the standout styling shifts that defined the Durango’s exterior over time.
- 2004: Second generation introduces a rounder, more modern exterior after the 1998–2003 boxy design.
- 2011: Third generation debuts a contemporary look with shared platform and upgraded interior.
- Mid-cycle refresh around 2014: Exterior and interior updates keep the Durango current without a new generation launch.
These milestones illustrate how Dodge has evolved the Durango’s appearance to fit changing consumer preferences while maintaining the model’s identity as a versatile, family-friendly SUV.
Summary
For most readers, the key takeaway is straightforward: the Durango’s first major body-style change occurred with the 2004 model year, marking the transition from Gen 1 to Gen 2. Since 2011, the Durango has continued with a modern, updated look through mid-cycle refreshes rather than another full generational leap. The result is a durable design that has adapted to market trends while keeping the Durango recognizable on the road.
Is the 2026 Durango getting a redesign?
The 2026 Durango's exterior and powertrain upgrades are matched by a host of technological upgrades to bring the SUV up to date. The interior has been redesigned to feel more premium with high-quality materials like leather and soft-touch surfaces to elevate the cabin experience.
What is the best year of Durango to buy?
2014-2020 Dodge Durango
The third-generation Durango, particularly from 2014 onwards, represents some of the best years for the model. The 2014 model year brought significant updates, including: New 8-speed automatic transmission for improved performance and fuel economy.
What year did the Dodge Durango body style change?
2011 – Present (3rd Generation) Dodge restarted production of the Durango SUV for the 2011 model year, and the third-generation Durango is still in production. This latest generation Durango has drastically different exterior styling than the previous generation vehicle.
What year to stay away from Dodge Durango?
You should generally stay away from the 1999-2000, 2004-2006, and 2011-2013 model years of the Dodge Durango due to common issues like suspension failures, electrical problems, and transmission issues. Specifically, the 1999 and 2000 models had frequent suspension and engine problems, while the 2011-2013 models are noted for electrical and transmission troubles. The 2004-2006 models experienced electrical issues that could cause fires, leading to recalls.
First generation (1998-2003)
- Years to avoid: 1999 and 2000
- Common problems: Chronic suspension failures (ball joints, bushings, wheel bearings) and engine stalling. The 1999 model is often cited as one of the worst due to numerous complaints about the vehicle shutting down while driving.
- Note: While the first generation has issues, the 2001-2003 models are considered better options for those who want an older, body-on-frame SUV.
Second generation (2004-2009)
- Years to avoid: 2004, 2005, and 2006
- Common problems: Electrical problems, particularly in 2004-2006, which led to cabins catching fire and resulted in recalls. Transmission issues were also reported in 2005.
Third generation (2011-2023)
- Years to avoid: 2011, 2012, and 2013
- Common problems: Electrical and transmission problems plagued the early years of this generation.
- 2011 and 2012: Experienced significant electrical issues, sometimes related to a TIMP (Transmission/Ignition Module/Processor) problem.
- 2014: While part of the later part of this generation, the 2014 model had issues with tail light water intrusion and airbag malfunctions.
