Refreshing a Classic With the 2024 Jeep Wrangler
If you’re in the market for an off-road-ready SUV, the biggest challenge might be narrowing down the list. Automakers have been rolling out new SUVs at a record pace, but there can also be a real disparity when it comes to their relative ruggedness and off-road potential. Crossover SUVs might be a great choice for those looking to upgrade their family vehicle or daily driver, but if you want a true off-road companion, it’s time to seek out a Jeep Wrangler for sale. Built with a traditional body-on-frame design, solid axles, and a host of heavy-duty equipment, the Wrangler enables a new level of off-road fun that its crossover competitors just can’t match.
Jeep has treated the Wrangler to a long-awaited mid-cycle refresh for 2024, modernizing the classic SUV and integrating some important improvements that allow it to stay well ahead of the pack. These upgrades can be found in every corner of the award-winning SUV and range from robust new off-road components to vital tech upgrades and eye-catching styling tweaks. It’s another strong showing for the Wrangler, which has won countless awards over its four decades on the market. So, what makes the Wrangler such a compelling SUV in an increasingly crowded segment, and how is the 2024 model carrying on Jeep’s longtime tradition of off-road excellence? Read on as we answer all that and more.
Off-Road Upgrades
The most noticeable change might be the restyled grille. Jeep has shortened the iconic seven-slot design but compensated for the corresponding reduction in airflow by nixing the grille’s painted ridges. The seven-slot grille is the Jeep trademark, but the automaker has a very practical––and exciting––reason for messing with the established formula. For the first time ever, the Wrangler Rubicon now comes with a factory-installed winch, and not just any winch at that. Jeep has teamed up with Warn to give the Wrangler one of the best winches on the market, allowing drivers to add an 8,000 lb winch to any Rubicon model. It’s an important upgrade to ensure off-road success, allowing drivers to recover their vehicles––or those of their riding buddies––when the trail gets a little too rough.
The new bumper and available winch aren’t the only off-road-related upgrade for 2024. Jeep has also replaced the semi-floating rear axle with a new full-floating design that offers some real benefits when it comes to durability, traction, and stability. The full-floating rear axle should also be a little easier to repair mid-ride should something go wrong and has the added benefit of increasing the Wrangler’s overall towing capacity.
Like previous Wrangler models, the 2024 version is also available with three distinct 4×4 systems to choose from: Command-Trac, Selec-Trac, and Rock-Trac. Command-Trac is a well-rounded system perfect for both on and off-road use, while Selec-Trac takes it to another level with automatic engagement. Those seeking Jeep’s hardiest 4×4 system should take a closer look at Rock-Trac, which features an impressive 4:1 low-range gear ratio and heavy-duty front and rear axles complete with electronic locking differentials.
Tech-Centric Cabin
The Wrangler has long been able to trade on its off-road resume, but Jeep is well aware that tech features have become an increasingly important part of the SUV equation. Take touchscreen infotainment displays, for example. While these were once something of a luxury, they’ve become the norm in today’s vehicles. Until this year, the Wrangler lagged a bit behind the pack with seven-inch and 8.4-inch displays to choose from, but that all changed for 2024 as Jeep rolled out a standard 12.3-inch screen across every trim. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system comes with all the expected connectivity goodies like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but it’s the SUV’s trail-specific offerings that really caught our attention.
Jeep has teamed up with the online trail guide gurus at Trails Offroad to pack the Uconnect infotainment system with a database of more than 3,000 off-road trails. These guides provide waypoints, difficulty ratings, route descriptions, and relevant points of interest, ensuring drivers will enjoy a successful off-road excursion without missing any of the sights. The system includes all of the Jeep Badge of Honor trails, which, upon being completed, earn drivers real-life badges that can be affixed to their Wranglers.
Handy finger holds will make navigating the display a breeze in even the bumpiest conditions, while a cached data feature means the trail maps will provide accurate information even when cell coverage is spotty. While past Jeep infotainment displays might have struggled to contend with the bright, airy nature of the Wrangler cabin––especially when the roof is removed––Jeep has engineered around this problem by ramping up the brightness of the backlit display.
Display visibility isn’t the only tech-related issue Jeep engineers had to solve in refreshing the 2024 Wrangler. While everyone enjoys the wind-in-your-hair feeling that comes with removing the Jeep’s windows and doors, it can present some problems when it comes to holding a phone conversation. Jeep has addressed this by gracing the Wrangler with a seven-microphone system with active noise cancellation that should go a long way toward improving audio fidelity when on a hands-free call. The automaker also gave the Wrangler waterproof 12-way power-adjustable seats, allowing drivers to ford up to 34 inches of water without frying the electronics.
Engine Options Galore
Customization has long been the name of the game when it comes to Jeep’s flagship model, and 2024 is no different. Jeep is offering no fewer than nine distinct trim options going into the new year, ranging from the entry-level Wrangler Sport all the way up to the ultra-luxe Rubicon 392. This towering trim ladder allows drivers to find a Wrangler that matches both their budget and their driving goals, but that’s just a small taste of the SUV’s customization potential. The 2024 Wrangler is also available in two-door and four-door models, with several powertrains that really set it apart from the crowd.
The engine lineup starts with the Wrangler’s 3.6-liter V6, which can be mated to either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Producing 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, the V6 might not turn the Wrangler into a speed demon, but it does allow the SUV to shoot from zero to 60 mph in just over six seconds.
If efficiency is a priority, it might be time to test drive a Wrangler with Jeep’s turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. This option takes advantage of the low-end power potential provided by forced induction, allowing the Wrangler to achieve 295 lb-ft of torque. While the engine can only be paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission, it provides a well-rounded option for drivers who prioritize efficiency along with off-road performance, getting an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined.
Finally, there’s the HEMI V8. The HEMI name is synonymous with power, so it’s little surprise to discover that the Wrangler’s 6.4-liter V8 is capable of a nice, even 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque and can achieve a zero-to-60 mph time of just four seconds. The engine might not be as efficient as those found in the other models, but when you’re seeking the ultimate in power, nothing else will do.
The First Name in Off-Road Performance
Jeep might call it a refresh, but the 2024 Wrangler really marks a significant overhaul when compared to the outgoing model. Appearance, tech, and off-road-related upgrades bring the Wrangler firmly into the modern era without sacrificing those classic Jeep qualities that have made the SUV such a popular choice for almost 40 years. From the new, first-of-its-kind factory-installed Warn winch to the full-floating rear axle and detailed information on over 3,000 off-road trails thanks to the partnership with Trails Offroad, the Wrangler is tough to beat if you’re looking for a fully-equipped off-road rig. With many trims to choose from, ranging from the budget-friendly Sport to the HEMI-powered off-road juggernaut that is the Rubicon 392, there’s a 2024 Wrangler out there to suit every driver. There’s a reason that Jeep has become the first name in off-road performance, and that reason will become pretty obvious as soon as you engage the Wrangler’s 4×4 system and hit your local trails.
Which Jeep SUV Has What You Need?
The Jeep lineup is something special in multiple ways. For starters, there’s the fact that the vast majority of models that you’ll find at a used Jeep dealer will be SUVs since that’s what the lineup mostly consists of—that’s no surprise since the original Jeep that came out of the Second World War is one of the grandfathers of modern SUVs. There’s also the fact that more Jeep models are ready to leave the road behind and take you out onto the trail or help you get to your favorite campsite with ease than just about any other brand out there. Again, that’s no surprise given the Jeep legacy for adventurous vehicles that can go anywhere you want.
With so many amazing vehicles to choose from, however, it can be tricky to navigate all of these options and figure out what’s right for you. Fortunately, however, we’re here to help—we have friendly people ready to assist you when you call or visit us, but we’ll also get you started here today. Once you have a sense of what you’re looking for, all of these options aren’t too confusing, so it really comes down to understanding what you need. Let’s take a look at the Jeep SUVs that you’ll find when shopping for used models to see what each of them offers.
The Jeep Renegade
Kicking things off, we have the Renegade, which is the smallest model in the Jeep lineup these days: a subcompact crossover that makes for a terrific starting option. If you’re looking for a Jeep SUV and need something that can easily fit into a downsized lifestyle, this is a great choice. The Renegade generally keeps things simple, with a single engine available that offers a solid driving experience, with four-wheel drive (4WD) available to improve performance in bad weather or on dirt roads.
If you’re interested in a subcompact model to take off-road, then you should look for a Renegade Trailhawk to get the best performance on the trail. With two rows of seating for up to five passengers, the Renegade is a solid choice for families or if you’re looking for something to enjoy some alone time away from civilization and the stress of modern life. We should mention that Jeep has discontinued the Renegade following the 2023 model year, though you’ll find plenty of them used right now and for years to come.
The Jeep Compass
Similar in size, the Jeep Compass is also a subcompact SUV that has a lot in common with the Renegade, though there are notable differences between them. For one thing, although this is also a two-row model with seating for up to five passengers, the Compass has quite a bit more cargo space inside—both behind the rear seats and overall. This makes the Compass a terrific choice for loading up before you hit the road or go off-road, giving you lots of room for all the stuff you need to bring along with you. Jeep keeps things simple with the Compass, just like the Renegade, by having a single engine that ensures it is fun to drive, with 4WD available. Look for the Trailhawk trim if you’re interested in the best off-road features and options.
The Jeep Cherokee
A legend in the auto industry, the Jeep Cherokee has long been one of Jeep’s most popular options and a great choice for a wide range of drivers. This is a compact SUV, which makes it a bit larger than the previous two we looked at, though it still has two rows of seats for up to five people, just like those models. One thing to note, however, is that it’s designed to emphasize passenger space, so it has a bit less cargo room inside than the Compass—though it gives you more space for stuff than the Renegade.
The Cherokee has been offered for many years with a choice of powerful engines, which is important to keep in mind while looking at different options. 4WD is available to elevate your driving experience—again, look for the Trailhawk if you want peak off-road capability. Much like the Renegade, Jeep is discontinuing the Cherokee following the 2023 model year, streamlining their selection and simplifying your options while shopping for a Jeep SUV.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee
Moving into a decidedly larger option, the Grand Cherokee builds on everything the Cherokee does well but makes it bigger and more impressive. This is a midsize model with two rows of seating inside—if you want to bring more people along, look for the larger Grand Cherokee L model that has a third row of seats. The standard Grand Cherokee has numerous engines, including an impressive HEMI V8 in previous years, ensuring plenty of power is packed into this bold beast. This is also one of the most customizable options in the Jeep lineup, with a wide variety of trim levels available for you to choose from. Look for the Trailhawk for incredible off-road capability or models like the Summit to enjoy the rich elegance of an enhanced interior.
The Jeep Wrangler
The successor to the original Jeep that helped the Allies win World War II, the Jeep Wrangler is an absolute legend in the auto industry and out on the trail. If you’re looking for an incredible SUV that delivers off-road capability like no one else, then the Wrangler is for you. Available with either two doors or four, you’ll find two rows of seats inside the Wrangler so you can have friends and family accompany you for a day of fun outdoors. Iconic features like a fold-down windshield and removable doors make the Wrangler something truly special, while powerful engines have been offered year after year to elevate your driving experience to the next level. As you look at different models from recent years, keep an eye out for a Wrangler Rubicon 392 if you’re interested in bold power beyond anything else out on the trail.
Special Mention: The Jeep Patriot
If you’re interested in used Jeep SUVs, not just new models, then the Patriot is well worth considering when exploring your options. This SUV hit the market at the same time as the Compass, which is still available today and was offered from 2007 to 2017; the Compass was similarly introduced for the 2007 model year. During that time, the Patriot earned a lot of fans and proved itself to be an incredibly capable and popular compact SUV. One thing that set the Patriot apart was that it was available with two different 4WD systems, including an exclusive Freedom Drive II unit that delivered impressive low-end performance that made it great for crawling and maneuvering off-road at low speeds. This remains a very popular option for folks looking at pre-owned Jeep models, especially for putting together an SUV for the trail.
So, Which Jeep SUV Is Right for You?
As you can see, you have a lot of options available to you right now when shopping for a new or used Jeep SUV, though some of them are going away this year. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s a Jeep model designed to deliver the kind of overall size, interior space, engine performance, and off-road capability that best meets your needs. Although we wouldn’t categorize the Jeep lineup as overwhelming, there are certainly a multitude of options, and things can get confusing when trying to keep them all straight. That’s why we’re here to help and ensure you get the perfect vehicle with everything you’ve been looking for. Now, you just have to decide on what features are most important to you, and then let us take care of everything else.
There’s nothing that says open-air freedom quite like a Jeep Wrangler, with its ruggedly handsome styling and unparalleled off-road capabilities. You may have been envisioning yourself behind the wheel of one of these thrilling machines for a while now, but you don’t want to overextend when it comes to cost. You also don’t want to compromise on capabilities or features, which may have you in a bit of a conundrum. That’s where shopping for a used Wrangler may be the perfect solution for you, as you can shop from an outstanding selection of models for more affordable prices, especially when you choose to shop with us. At Roanoke Motors Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we’re the area’s leading used Jeep dealer, and we’ve got plenty of reasons why you should consider a used Jeep Wrangler.
1. Unrivaled Off-Road Exhilaration
There’s no competing with a Wrangler when it comes to off-roading. This machine was made to take on the trails, the mud, the sand, and virtually anything else that resides under its monstrous all-terrain tires. Not only do Wrangler models showcase phenomenal 4×4 capabilities, with impressive crawl ratios, expert articulation, and impeccable water-fording abilities, but they are also armed with powerful engines to urge you out into the wilderness with ferocity. Heavy-duty axles, reinforced skid plates, high air intakes, and rock rails add to the Wrangler’s overall durability, making it a force wherever it dares to travel. There’s no doubt about it—when ultimate exploration is on your agenda, no other vehicle will offer you an experience like the Wrangler, and if you’re looking to have your pick of quality Wrangler models, shopping used is highly recommended.
2. Unmatched Longevity
Wranglers are built to withstand some of the toughest environments you can put yourself in, which means that when it comes to holding up over time, these models are some of the best around. The durability of the Wrangler shines through, allowing you to handle more, whether you’re traversing down a rocky mountain trail or taking on traffic-laden highways. Not only are Wranglers built tough, but they’re built with quality parts and exceptional engineering at their core, which means that when taken care of properly, they can provide an inspiring ride for hundreds of thousands of miles. So, if you happen to see a classic used Jeep Wrangler that you’d like to make your own, don’t let mileage deter you, as these vehicles are built to last.
3. Classic Style
Another factor that tends to draw many drivers in is the Wrangler’s classic American style. It radiates from front to back, inside and out, allowing you to stand out in a crowd wherever you’re traveling next. With its can’t-miss styling, accentuated by available removable doors and a removable roof providing open-air freedom, adventuring is just a fact of life for this off-road icon. Inside, its durable cabin, marked by easy-to-clean appointments, sets you up for ultimate enjoyment, even when the journey gets a little dirty. Its bold tires, high stance, and commanding front end capture your attention at first glance. With premium lighting elements, you’ll not only steal the show wherever you go but also take advantage of better visibility when the forest you’re traveling in becomes difficult to navigate.
4. Outstanding Resale Value
Because the Wrangler is such a respected model in the industry, designed with top-quality parts and state-of-the-art engineering, it’s no surprise that it holds its value exceptionally well. It’s true that Jeep Wranglers are highly sought after, and models in great condition fetch high prices when it’s time to trade them in. This means that even if you find a used Wrangler and, after a few years, you’re looking to trade it in for a better-equipped model, you’ll most likely get a nice sum of money to put toward your next vehicle. It’s important to note that proper maintenance is key to taking advantage of top resale values, so be sure to do your part, keep up with routine maintenance, and keep your Wrangler in tip-top condition.
5. The Wrangler You Want
One of the biggest perks of buying a used vehicle, especially a model like the Wrangler, is that you can get the vehicle you truly want instead of being limited by your budget restrictions. You may have a certain trim in mind, or you’re looking for a Wrangler fully loaded with legendary off-roading equipment. This may cost a pretty penny when buying brand new; however, since used vehicles have already gone through the bulk of their depreciation, enjoying these features for less money is entirely possible—even for a vehicle like the Wrangler. Now, you can get the Wrangler you’ve always wanted, whether it’s a near-new model or a timeless classic.
6. Multiple Configurations
Another huge plus of buying a used Wrangler is the fact that you’re able to choose from multiple model years, showcasing multiple configuration options. Not only does the Wrangler offer many powertrains to choose from, but you’ll also get to pick from a variety of 4×4 systems, trims, and even roof and door configurations. This way, you can find the Wrangler that checks all the boxes on your wishlist without having to compromise. Not every vehicle is as customizable as the Wrangler, which further sets it apart from the others.
7. Adding Value to the Drive
Not only is the Wrangler durable and ready to handle the outdoors, but it’s also happy to add value to your daily commute, road trip, or any other driving scenario. Its incredible 4×4 systems don’t just come in handy off-road but during inclement weather as well, allowing you to travel as safely as possible. Its comfortable cabin sets you up for a cozy ride into work, while its slew of excellent engines delivers the energy you need to add excitement to the daily ride. Choosing to buy used allows you to enjoy lower prices, as opposed to buying new, which is another way this Jeep classic brings value to the drive, allowing you to harness outstanding capabilities, all for a price that you can afford.
8. Capable of Anything
The Wrangler can hold its own in a variety of driving situations. Its strong powertrains are capable of towing your camper or trailer out into the woods, while its all-wheel drive systems work to get you there with confidence. No obstacle is in the way of the Wrangler, which allows it to be a popular pick for drivers everywhere, not just strictly adventurers. Its versatility is obvious, and when you choose to shop used, you can shop from an expanded selection featuring multiple years, trims, and so much more to help you get what you want out of your ride.
Looking for Adventure in Your Next Used Vehicle? Check Out the Jeep Wrangler
So, why should you consider a used Jeep Wrangler? In addition to offering a spirited ride,
regardless of the environment it’s traveling in, a used Wrangler allows you to take advantage of the features, capabilities, and ride quality you want, all while staying within your budget. No vehicle is as thrilling as the Wrangler, and no vehicle showcases pure American design quite like the Wrangler, making this Jeep model an absolute legend. When you want to unlock a new level of driving excitement, a Wrangler will do just that, and when you refuse to compromise on how you wish to travel, choosing to buy used will be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made.
When it comes to American muscle cars, you’ll find all you can handle when you visit a Dodge dealer like ours here at Roanoke Motors Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, including the adrenaline-pumping Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger. These heavy metal beasts of the roadway have been burning rubber since the 1960s and show no signs of slowing down. From eye-catching designs to heart-pumping performance, both the Charger and the Challenger embody the spirit of freedom that comes with four wheels and tops it off with a powerful engine that makes for an unforgettable ride every time you slip behind the wheel and push down the accelerator.
So, you can imagine that choosing between a Dodge Challenger and a Charger can be challenging. Both models are tough but offer their own unique blend of performance and style that sets them apart from each other. Keeping your personal preferences in mind is essential when struggling to pick between the two.
If you’re looking for a modern muscle car, the 2-door V8 Challenger might be for you. It delivers retro-inspired good looks that take styling cues from some of the original American muscle cars, making it ideal for a drive down memory lane with all the modern bells and whistles. The Challenger is a bold choice whether you’re tearing down the highways or grabbing groceries around town. From behind the wheel, you’re sure to turn more than a few heads.
On the other hand, maybe you want versatility with a little extra jolt of performance; in that case, the Charger should be at the top of your list. The car features 4-doors with a comfortable interior, ideal for your everyday drive. Drivers will get plenty of space for cargo and passengers without having to give up the power boost they crave. The Charger can be equipped with all-wheel drive as well as a variety of V6 and V8 engines, so it’s easy to get the perfect fit for your daily driving habits.
Ultimately, the choice between the Charger and the Challenger boils down to your personal preferences. Want performance and classic style? The Challenger won’t let you down. But if you want a car that offers performance and practicality, the Charger might offer you the perfect balance. We know it’s a tough call. That’s why we’ve taken a closer look at the 2023 Charger and Challenger models to see exactly what they have to offer your next drive. Whatever you choose, next time you turn the key, experience pure American muscle brought to you by Dodge.
Unleash The Beast: Modern Engines for Modern Drivers
Get your hands on a timeless American icon when you drive a Dodge Challenger. The 2023 model currently features six engines to pick from. The 807 hp Supercharged 6.2L High-Output HEMI V8 gives drivers 707 lb-ft of torque. That means some fast-spinning get-up-and-go action. If you want to unleash all the performance the Challenger has to offer, opt for either the SRT Super Stock or SRT Jailbreak Challenger to take your drive to new levels.
Supercharged 6.2L High-Output HEMI V8 is standard on the current 2023 Hellcat model. It impresses with 717 hp paired with 656 lb-ft of torque. The aggressive 392 HEMI V8 is found standard on the Challenger R/T Scat Pack. It boasts 485 hp along with 475 lb-ft of torque. The 375 hp 5.7 HEMI V8 has more than enough power for casual driving. This V8 was not only made to be powerful but also to offer drivers efficiency without compromise. The engine was designed with MDS fuel-saving tech so drivers can easily switch from 8 cylinders to 4 to increase fuel efficiency. Save more and go farther when you go for the Challenger R/T with a standard V8.
If you want timeless design and great performance but don’t need to burn rubber, no problem. The Challenger was made to accommodate the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine that features 303 hp balanced with TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 is found standard on the SXT and GT.
Drivers wanting the convenience of a 4-door model will find plenty to love about the Charger. It has no problem bringing its A-game when it comes to power. For 2023, the Charger features four engine choices, including the Supercharged 6.2L High-Output SRT HEMI V8 that puts out 807 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque, much like its counterpart, the Challenger. This engine is standard in the powerful Charger SRT Hellcat.
The 392 HEMI V8 is also available for the Charger, bringing along 485 horses with 475 lb-ft of torque. This engine powers the Charger Scat Pack and will take you from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds flat. The 345 HEMI V8 isn’t bad either for drivers wanting performance and practicality all in one good-looking package. The 370 hp engine delivers 395 lb-ft of torque and features MDS Fuel Saving technology, so you get all the thrills without sacrificing efficiency.
The fourth engine offered is the practical e 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine that is capable of charging up your daily drive with a bit of fun. The TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission helps boost its highway driving potential to 30 MPG. Find the V6 on either the STX or GT models. Dodge suggests boosting your performance with all-wheel drive to enjoy all the engine has to offer, including 300 horses and a torque of 264 lb-ft.
Exceptional Braking Power Courtesy of Brembo
Both the Challenger and the Charger are designed not just for speed but to give you a responsive and smooth stopping time. That is why both models feature Brembo brake systems to ensure when you need to brake; your Dodge responds quickly and smoothly for optional performance every time. The Challenger Challenger R/T Scat Pack and the Performance Handling Group on GT RWD and R/T feature a Brembo Four-Piston Brake System to give optimum control and the performance you expect from a race-worthy car like the Challenger. Meanwhile, the Challenger SRT model features a Brembo six-piston brake system for high-energy and prompt braking. Both systems are ideal for casual road driving as well as on the track for an unforgettable time spent behind the wheel.
The Charger can also be had with either a four or six-piston Brembo braking system. Why Brembo? The Brembo name is synonymous with high-end, top-performance quality brake systems. The systems feature larger components like brake rotors and pads for smoother and better performance than standard stock systems. The high-performance brake systems on the Charger mean responsive steering for impeccable control even when road conditions are less than optimal.
Challenge the Road With Dodge
Dodge is the maker of two iconic models, the 2-door Challenger and the 4-door Charger. Both are inspired by the track but designed for everyday drivers looking for something more out of their car. With an impressive lineup of aggressive engines and high-end braking systems, you never have to worry about your car getting performance anxiety.
Drivers who choose an American muscle car like the Challenger or the Charger are looking for something beyond the typical sedan. Both Dodge models can pull double duty when it comes to delivering a rush of performance with everyday practicalities like fuel management systems or top-tier braking for a safer, more responsive drive.
Picking between the two models can pose a challenge even to the most decisive buyer. While good looks and comfort are important, drives usually come to models like the Challenger or the Charger because performance is at the top of their must-have list, and these two models certainly know how to impress. The Challenger features five off-the-charts engines, including the high-output HEMI designed to feed your need for speed. Two doors and a racing-inspired cockpit make the Challenger feel more track-ready and exciting than your average ride. In contrast, the Charger gives the perfect blend of performance and practicality with its 4-door model and comfortable interior that offers ample head and leg room along with cargo for daily essentials.
So when you shop, look out for Dodge’s impressive powerhouses, the Charger and the Challenger, because both models are equally impressive in their own way, checking a unique set of boxes for a diverse set of drivers. Both will not have any trouble taking your drive to all new heights, leaving you with the question: Challenger or Charger? There is no wrong choice when it comes to Dodge. Take both for a test spin and find out. We promise the decision might not be easy, but it will be a whole lot of fun.
Until the Dodge Hornet arrived, the Durango was Dodge’s single SUV offering. The Durango is a high-performance 3-row midsize SUV. Its flexible sizing and powerful V8 engines make it the only SUV you’d ever need. With seating for up to seven passengers and a robust, fast engine, the Durango is up for any challenge the road throws at it. Whether you want the SUV as a cargo or family hauler, Dodge designed the Durango to meet a diverse set of needs for drivers looking for a balanced co-pilot who doesn’t believe in cutting corners.
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. Reports say the Durango production will cease after 2024 and be replaced with a resurrected nameplate from Dodge’s past. It will be exciting to see what the future holds for Dodge, but until then, Roanoke Motors Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, your premier Dodge dealer, has plenty to offer with the midsize Durango.
A Look at the Durango’s Generations
The three-seater SUV has been available since 1998, offering drivers a powerful V8 with plenty of interior cargo space for gear or passengers. During the first generation that spanned 1998-2003, drivers had lots to love about Dodge’s introduction to the midsize SUV market. The Durango was based on the Dakota pickup truck, giving it an aggressive and durable feel that consumers appreciated. In the first generation, drivers could pick from a range of V6 and V8 engine options as well as a special edition performance-focused R/T model for drivers wanting a little extra jolt of power from their ride.
The second generation was rolled out in 2004 and ran until 2009. It featured a redesign that included a third row plus a new setup with replaced coil springs that made it drive more like a car than a truck despite its increased size. The second generation also featured some enhanced powertrain options that included a HEMI V8 and a hybrid option for increased efficiency. Dodge also introduced a luxury edition of the Durango called the Aspen in 2007 to help boost sales.
The Durango was given a break in 2010 but reintroduced the third generation in 2011. It was redesigned to mimic the successful Jeep Grand Cherokee with a longer wheelbase and unibody design. This redesign took some of the bulk of the Durango and gave it smoother handling than previous generations. The third generation proved to be a winner, with the Durango receiving top IIHS Safety Pick awards during the first four years of this generation. The performance-focused 2021 SRT Hellcat model took things to a new level with its 6.2l HEMI V8 and specially tuned four-wheel drive system capable of taking from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds.
When Shopping for a Pre-Owned Durango, Which Generations Should You Look At?
Buying a pre-owned vehicle is a smart investment for budget-savvy drivers. The Durango has plenty to offer, considering its almost two decades on the market. The first generation might be older and offer less modern tech, but it represents a lot of value to drivers looking for a tough truck-based SUV without all the bells and whistles. Besides that, the first generation is known to be one of the best-selling generations of the Durango run.
For more modern tech, the third generation, especially in 2021, doesn’t disappoint. The upgrade from the previous Dakota-based models to the Jeep Grand Cherokee models was a huge improvement. The tail end of the third generation means advanced tech and connectivity for drivers who want plenty of seating and towing potential, plus an updated infotainment system to connect with. The V8 engines offered in the third generation have plenty of potential and performance.
A Brand-New Durango Has a Lot to Offer
The newest Dodge Durango for 2024 is considered a masterpiece. If you’re looking for a hearty 3-row SUV, the 2024 Durango should be on your shortlist of possibilities. Even though it’s been on the road for a while, the Durango shows no signs of slowing down in the power department. 2024 gives drivers a host of engine choices, three to be exact. The 710-horsepower Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 will take you from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds plus give you best-in-class towing upwards of 8,700 lbs.
If you don’t need quite that much get-up-and-go power, the 6.4L HEMI V8 is still impressive with 475 hp and best-in-class towing of 8,700 lbs. It will only take you a mere 4.4 seconds to reach 60 rather than 3.5 seconds, but if you’re okay with that, so are we. The third engine is a beefy 5.7L HEMI V8 with a towing capacity of 7,400 lbs and 360 horses. More than enough power for your everyday needs and a little extra for weekend adventures.
The Dodge Durango might be family-friendly thanks to its extensive seating and great safety features, but this is a performance-focused SUV that not only fulfills your need for speed but is there to help you out with work or recreational towing when needed. This makes it ideal for weekend road trips and everyday errands. The Durango is your ideal co-pilot when you need someone to pick up the slack.
The cabin features an eye for design and comfort for passengers and the driver. Deep, supportive seating and ample head and leg room make it easy to relax and stretch out no matter where you’re seated. An available 19-speaker system elevates your listening experience to new levels, while the UConnect system makes engaging and connecting with your SUV feel seamless and rewarding. Drivers can customize their UConnect system using up to five different profiles, providing a personalized experience that is focused on your unique needs and tastes.
A suite of modern safety and driver assist technologies to have your back and increase your confidence behind the wheel. Dodge designed the Durango to be your ideal driving partner. So whether it’s the Forward Collision Warning with Full Stop or Lane Departure Warning, the Durango has you and your passengers covered bumper to bumper.
More Than Your Average SUV
The Durango was designed to take SUVs to a new level. While the midsize SUV might have started out on a truck platform, it has been redesigned over the years to make it a modern driving machine for consumers looking for power, performance, and comfort in one place. While many SUVs focus on convenience or performance, the Durango is a model that does both equally well. Its spacious interior easily fits seven passengers across three rows. If the extra seating isn’t needed, drivers get a wealth of cargo space for gear or work supplies.
As for power, the selection of V6 and V8 engines has impressed us from the beginning. And the recent offering of the exciting Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 takes things to a new level. Forget the days of slow and awkward SUVs; the Durango has made a name for itself as a high-performance ride that is capable of achieving speed and strength where SUVs tend to falter.
Drivers on the prowl for a rewarding ride will find the Durango is worthy of a place on their list of possibilities. If your wishes include speed, performance, and modern comfort, the Durango is the ride for you. Getting a balanced SUV that is not only practical but fun doesn’t mean making sacrifices. The Durango was designed to fulfill your driving dreams no matter where the road takes you.
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