The Dodge Durango is an SUV known for its power and performance. Its design tips a hat to its muscle car roots and the Dodge history that has created the loyal fan base the carmaker enjoys today. Whether a commuting companion or a family hauler, the Dodge Durango toes the line between being fun to drive and offering the versatility of a family vehicle. If you want one, there’s a good chance you are already browsing used Dodge Durango model years.

Because a new one can get expensive. According to US News and World Report, The 2020 Dodge Durango starts at $30,495. This is a pretty standard starting price point for its class of midsize SUVs. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for an additional $2,600.

You really start to see the cost climb, however, when you move up the trim levels. The sport-focused Durango R/T trim begins at $43,995. If you want the top tier high-performance Durango SRT, it’s going to set you back at least $62,995. Buying used is a great way to save some money and still get the options you desire.

The used Dodge Durango

In 2014, the Durango received a redesign. An updated body style debuted with the new generation as well as a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Gas mileage for both engine options got better and so did performance.

“Spacious, quiet, and comfortable, the Durango impressively blends workhorse utility with lots of creature comforts. It shares its platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee but is longer and adds a third-row seat. Handling is responsive. The ride is composed and comfortable, making the Durango feel sophisticated and substantial.”

Consumer Reports

2015 Durango model year

It’s usually understood that buying the first year of a new generation can be a little risky. When big changes are made it sometimes takes a year or two to work out the kinks. For this reason, we recommend skipping the 2014 and checking out the 2015 model year for a used Dodge Durango instead.

With a 3 out of 5 reliability verdict from CR, this year could be a good choice for families that want what the Dodge Durango has to offer for a lower price. US News and World Report lists the average price paid for this model year as $18,338 – $25,802. Those saving are pretty nice compared with the prices of a 2020 Durango.

Dodges do have a history of issues with reliability and the reality is that if you want a Dodge, you probably already know that. And you don’t care. What US News calls a “potent V8” is worth the low reliability scores to those seeking used Dodge models. And in spite of the JD Power verdict, the 2015 Dodge Durango was a finalist for the US News “Best Large SUV for the Money” award.

2018 Dodge Durango

the 2018 Durango was updated with a standard rearview camera, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The Durango SRT was also introduced for the 2018 model year. The average price paid for this used SUV is $24,940 – $52,109, According to US News.

Though the savings aren’t quite as substantial as for the 2015 used Durango, they are still excellent. Also, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are an update for the 2018 model year. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a used Durango. Especially considering the 2019 Durangos went unchanged and the 2020 model year received only minor cosmetic updates.

Should you buy a used Dodge Durango?

If you want the muscle car attributes, top of class towing specs, and performance-tuned engine options of the Dodge Durango, buying used is a great way to save money. The 2015 and the 2018 are good years for a used Durango. They are readily available for much cheaper than the 2020 model year and, because they belong to the same generation, offer remarkably similar features for a lower price range.