The 2012 Dodge Durango is a more fuel efficient SUV yet still provides all of the room and power you need. The Durango can tow up to 7,400 pounds making it perfect for family outings and carrying lots of cargo.
Key Features
The 3.6 liter V6 offers 290 hp at 6,400 rpm with a fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The 5.7 liter HEMI V8 offers 360 hp with a fuel economy of 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Sirius satellite radio, telescopic steering column, and heated power side mirrors also come standard on this vehicle.
Changes for 2012
The 2012 Dodge Durango received revisions to the automatic transmission on the HEMI models and a 1 mpg improvement on the V6 highway’s fuel economy. In addition, a second row captain’s chair seating is an available option and the SXT trim replaced the Express trim.
What We Like
The Durango accelerates nicely due to its horsepower and passes easily on the highway. The R/T trim option comes with 20-inch tires making the Durango nice looking vehicle. A Blind-Spot Monitoring system also comes on the Durango which is good to have with a big SUV.
What Concerns Us
While the vehicle does have ample room for passengers and cargo, it lacks in fuel economy. If you want the space along with good fuel economy an Audi Q7 may be the better option for you, although it is more expensive.
Available Models
The 2012 Dodge Durango comes with an optional 5.7 liter HEMI V8 which offers 360 hp at 5,150 rpm. The fuel economy is estimated at 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Major Recalls
The Durango was recalled in 2015 due to the fuel pump relay may fail, which can cause the vehicle to stall. In 2014, the vehicle was recalled due to the alternator may suddenly fail, which could cause a crash. It was also recalled in 2014 due to the vanity lamp wiring shorting, causing an increased risk of fire. The Durango was recalled in 2014 due to water getting inside the brake booster, which can inhibit the ability to properly brake. Again in 2014 the Durango was recalled due to a hard brake pedal. It was also recalled in 2011 due to the engines experiencing debris inside the engine block, causing an engine seizure.
Common Issues
Common complaints include the engine not starting, TIPM faulty, vehicle stalls while driving, alternator failure, life gate stopping halfway, PCM faulty, engine stalls while driving, engine misfires, engine not turning off, driver’s seat module failed, rattling dash, ignition issues, seat loose, noisy transmission, transmission stopped shifting, and fuel pump failure.
