About the Dodge Durango
Built in the United States since 1998, the Dodge Durango is a body-on-frame SUV that competes with the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Tahoe. The second generation (2004-2009) and third generation (2011-present) are most commonly found in the UK as grey imports. These vehicles seat up to seven passengers and come with V6 or V8 petrol engines, typically the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 or the 5.7-litre HEMI V8. Four-wheel drive is standard on most models, making them capable tow vehicles with capacities exceeding 3,500kg when properly equipped.
UK buyers should note that all Durangos are left-hand drive, which affects resale values and daily usability. Running costs are high due to fuel consumption averaging 15-20 mpg, plus expensive servicing through specialist American car mechanics. However, the Durango offers space and power rarely found in European SUVs at similar price points.
What Affects the Price
Year and mileage are the primary factors, with newer fourth-generation models (2021+) commanding premiums. Engine choice significantly impacts value, as the 5.7 HEMI V8 is more desirable than the 3.6 V6, particularly in R/T and SRT trim levels. The high-performance SRT 392 with its 6.4-litre V8 can fetch £10,000-£15,000 more than equivalent standard models.
Import history matters considerably. Vehicles with full UK registration, paid import duties and established service records hold value better than recent imports with limited documentation. Mileage affects price more than usual because high-mileage examples often need expensive transmission or suspension work. Condition of the interior, especially third-row seats and dashboard electronics, influences buyer confidence. Optional equipment like adaptive cruise control, upgraded Uconnect infotainment, sunroofs and towing packages add £1,000-£3,000 to values.
Buying Tips
Verify the import paperwork is complete, including customs declarations and DVLA registration documents. Check the vehicle has been converted to UK specification lighting (or budget for this work). Inspect for rust underneath, particularly on older second-generation models, as American vehicles may have come from salt-belt states. Test all electronic systems thoroughly, as parts for repairs can take weeks to source from the US.
Budget for fuel costs of around 18-22 mpg in mixed driving, meaning £2,500-£3,500 annually for average mileage. Find a local specialist who works on American vehicles before purchasing, as most mainstream garages will not service them. Check insurance costs in advance, as premiums can be 30-50% higher than comparable European SUVs due to left-hand drive configuration and parts availability. Request evidence of transmission servicing, as the automatic gearbox requires fluid changes every 50,000 miles to avoid costly failures.