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Which Dodge Durango has leather seats?

Leather seating on the Dodge Durango is available on most trims above the base SXT, with higher-end models like GT Plus, RT, and Citadel commonly offering leather upholstery or as part of a leather package.


In this article, we explain which trims typically include leather, how the material is presented (standard vs optional), and how to verify the exact configuration for a specific model year when shopping for a Durango.


Leather seating by trim


Below is a quick guide to which Durango trims typically offer leather seating and how it is presented across model years.



  • SXT: Generally uses cloth upholstery; leather seats are not standard and may require a higher-level option package in some years.

  • SXT Plus: Leather seating is commonly included as part of a Leather Group or Premium Interior option, depending on year.

  • GT: Leather seats are available, typically as part of a Premium Interior option or as standard on certain years.

  • GT Plus: Leather seats are typically standard.

  • RT: Leather seats are typically standard on this higher-performance trim.

  • Citadel: Leather seats are standard and paired with other premium interior features.


Note: Availability can vary by model year and market. Always check the window sticker (Monroney) or the dealer's build sheet for the exact interior materials on any Durango you’re considering.


How to verify leather seating when shopping


If you’re shopping for a Dodge Durango and leather is a priority, use these steps to confirm the interior materials before you buy.



  1. Check the window sticker or VIN-specific build sheet to confirm interior materials and optional packages.

  2. Look at photos or inspect the seats in person to distinguish genuine leather from leatherette or vinyl alternatives.

  3. Ask whether the model includes the Leather Group, Premium Interior, or heated/cooled leather options, and verify which seats are leather vs. leatherette.

  4. Inquire about seat heating, ventilation, and power adjustments that are often bundled with leather interiors.

  5. Request the dealer to pull the exact build for the vehicle you’re considering to avoid confusion over trim names and options.


Clarifying these details helps ensure the Durango you’re evaluating truly has the leather you expect, regardless of trim name or year.


Summary


Leather seating in the Dodge Durango is available on most trims beyond the base SXT, with GT Plus, RT, Citadel, and other higher trims commonly offering leather—either as standard or via option packages like Leather Group. Always verify the current model year and trim with the dealer or build sheet, as interior materials can vary by year, market, and optional packages.

What year to stay away from Dodge Durango?


Years to avoid for the Dodge Durango include the earliest models like 1999-2000, 2004-2005, and 2011-2012, and 2014, due to frequent reports of engine, transmission, electrical, and suspension issues. The 1999 model year is frequently cited as one of the worst due to a high number of complaints, including engine and suspension problems. Early third-generation models like 2011 and 2012 are known for electrical and transmission issues, while the 2014 model year had problems with water intrusion in the tail lights and faulty airbags. 
First generation (1998-2003) 

  • 1999-2000: Prone to engine and suspension problems, as well as electrical and transmission failures. The 1999 model has a particularly high number of owner complaints.
  • 2001-2003: Transmission issues and electrical problems are common. 

Second generation (2004-2009) 
  • 2004-2005: These model years frequently experienced powertrain and suspension issues. The 2005 model also had several recalls. 
  • 2006-2009: While generally better, some owners reported issues with the engine and suspension. 

Third generation (2011-2020) 
  • 2011-2012: These years are plagued with electrical problems, particularly the TIMP (Transmission Integrated Power Module), and braking issues.
  • 2014: Issues included water leaking into the tail lights and airbags that could deploy unexpectedly. 

Fourth generation (2021-Present) 
  • 2021-2025: Some owners have reported recurring issues, and in some cases, the vehicles may qualify as a "lemon" under state laws if the problems persist. 



What's the difference between GT and RT Durango?


Exterior Design
R/T trims feature aggressive styling, such as hood scoops, unique grilles, bold badging, and distinctive wheels. Special editions like the Durango R/T 20th Anniversary Edition offer exclusive styling. GT trims have sporty but more subtle design cues like gloss-black accents and refined body styling.



What model of Durango has leather seats?


  • High Performance Leather / Suede Seats (SRT Hellcat AWD)
  • High Performance Laguna Leather Seats (SRT Hellcat Plus AWD & Hellcat Premium AWD)
  • Shop Inventory.



What is the difference between Durango premium and plus?


The main differences between the Durango Plus and Premium trims are that Premium builds on the Plus trim by adding more premium features like a Harman Kardon sound system, a power sunroof, and more advanced safety features such as Lane Departure Warning Plus. The Premium trim also includes higher-end interior materials, like a hand-wrapped instrument panel, and some exterior upgrades such as a satin black hood and black roof rails. 
This video compares the GT Plus and R/T trims of the Dodge Durango, highlighting differences in towing capacity and engine power: 57sOur Ride LifeYouTube · Jul 27, 2022
Durango GT Plus vs. GT Premium

Feature GT Plus GT Premium
Engine Usually a V6 engine Usually a V6 engine
Audio Standard audio system Available 19-speaker Harman Kardon® Premium Audio System
Safety Available Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection Adds Lane Departure Warning Plus
Interior Heated first- and second-row seats Premium hand-wrapped instrument panel, carbon fiber interior accents
Exterior Power sunroof Power sunroof, Black roof rails, auto-leveling headlamps
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Durango R/T Plus vs. R/T Premium 
Feature R/T Plus R/T Premium
Engine 5.7L HEMI V8 5.7L HEMI V8
Audio Standard audio system Harman Kardon® 19-speaker sound system
Safety Standard safety features Advanced safety features like advanced brake assist, Lane Departure Warning Plus, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot detection
Interior Standard interior materials Premium hand-wrapped instrument panel, carbon fiber interior accents, bright pedals, SRT performance front seats with SRT logo
Exterior Standard exterior features Power sunroof, rain-sensing wipers
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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.