1998-2003

The Durango was launched as a mid-size SUV, just after the second generation Dodge Dakota on which it was based (during the late 1980s, Chrysler designers proposed building an SUV version of the Dakota pickup; this was shelved when the Jeep division was about to release the Jeep Grand Cherokee as their flagship SUV.) It was marketed as a very sturdy truck-based SUV designed to hold up to seven passengers and tow up to 6,700 lb. However, these generation Durango's suffered from transmission and other drive component problems. This was thought to be in part to the vehicle's heavier weight than the base vehicle (Dakota) and the driving habits of its demographic being mainly car and mini-van drivers. The 4.7 L PowerTech V8 replaced the 5.2 L engine for 2000. In that same year a special all wheel drive performance version called the R/T was released with a 5.9 L V8 engine.
2001 saw a few revisions, including a redesigned interior, including a new dash, door panels, and revised seats. Other minor changes redesigned aluminium wheels, the removal of "Durango" badging from the doors, and minor changes to trim options.
[edit]Trims
1998-2003 - SLT, SLT PLUS
1999-2001 - Sport
2001-2003 - SXT
1999-2003 - R/T
[edit]Engines
1998–1999 — 5.2 L Magnum V8, 230 hp (172 kW)
1999–2000 — 3.9 L Magnum V6, 175 hp (131 kW)
1998–2003 — 5.9 L Magnum V8, 245 hp (183 kW)
2000–2003 — 4.7 L PowerTech V8, 235 hp (175 kW)