The 2017 Dodge Durango SRT marked a significant leap in the performance SUV segment, injecting serious muscle into a family-friendly package. The heart of this beast is, of course, its engine, and when we talk about the Durango SRT, the first thing that roars to mind is its horsepower. So, let's dive deep into the exhilarating power specs of the 2017 Dodge Durango SRT and explore what made this SUV a standout in its class.

Horsepower and Engine Specs

The 2017 Dodge Durango SRT is armed with a ferocious 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine. This powerplant is the key to its impressive performance figures, generating a substantial 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. This considerable output allows the Durango SRT to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, a remarkable feat for an SUV of its size. The engine is mated to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, optimized for both rapid acceleration and efficient cruising. The transmission provides smooth and quick gear changes, ensuring that the engine's power is effectively translated to the wheels.

The 6.4-liter HEMI V8 features technologies designed to enhance both power and efficiency. These include cylinder deactivation, which can shut down four of the eight cylinders under light load conditions to conserve fuel. However, when the driver demands maximum performance, all eight cylinders spring back to life, delivering the full fury of the engine. The engine also benefits from an active intake manifold, which optimizes airflow into the cylinders based on engine speed and load, further enhancing power and torque.

Beyond the raw horsepower figures, the 2017 Durango SRT's engine is characterized by its responsiveness and broad torque curve. This means that the engine delivers strong pulling power across a wide range of engine speeds, making it equally adept at hauling cargo, towing trailers, or simply accelerating quickly on the open road. The engine's soundtrack is also a major part of the Durango SRT's appeal, with a deep, throaty exhaust note that announces its presence with authority.

To fully appreciate the 2017 Dodge Durango SRT, it's essential to look beyond just the peak horsepower number. The engine's overall design, the transmission's tuning, and the vehicle's various performance enhancements all work together to create a truly exceptional driving experience. Whether you're a performance enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a powerful and capable SUV, the Durango SRT's engine is sure to impress.

Performance Features and Enhancements

Beyond just the sheer horsepower numbers, the 2017 Dodge Durango SRT came equipped with a host of performance-enhancing features that contributed to its impressive capabilities. These enhancements worked in harmony with the powerful engine to deliver a driving experience that was both thrilling and confidence-inspiring.

Brembo Brakes

To ensure that the Durango SRT could stop as well as it could go, Dodge equipped it with high-performance Brembo brakes. These brakes featured massive rotors and six-piston calipers up front, providing exceptional stopping power and resistance to brake fade. The Brembo brakes not only enhanced safety but also inspired confidence, allowing drivers to push the Durango SRT to its limits without fear of losing control.

Performance-Tuned Suspension

The Durango SRT's suspension was also specially tuned to deliver enhanced handling and control. The suspension featured stiffer springs, Bilstein dampers, and a thicker rear sway bar, all of which helped to reduce body roll and improve cornering performance. The result was an SUV that felt surprisingly agile and responsive for its size.

Drive Modes

The Durango SRT offered a variety of drive modes that allowed drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their specific needs and preferences. These modes included:

• Track Mode: Optimized for maximum performance on the track, this mode stiffened the suspension, sharpened the throttle response, and reduced stability control intervention.
• Sport Mode: Provided a balance of performance and comfort, this mode offered a more engaging driving experience than the standard mode while still maintaining a comfortable ride.
• Tow Mode: Optimized for towing, this mode adjusted the transmission shift points and stability control settings to provide enhanced stability and control when hauling a trailer.
• Snow Mode: Reduced throttle sensitivity and optimized the stability control system for improved traction on slippery surfaces.
• Eco Mode: Prioritized fuel efficiency by adjusting the engine and transmission settings to minimize fuel consumption.

Launch Control

For those seeking maximum acceleration, the Durango SRT also featured launch control. This system coordinated the engine, transmission, and stability control systems to deliver optimal launch performance, allowing drivers to achieve consistent and repeatable 0-60 mph times.

Interior and Technology

While the performance credentials of the 2017 Dodge Durango SRT were undeniable, it also offered a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The cabin was designed to provide a balance of luxury and functionality, with premium materials and advanced technology features.

Seating and Comfort

The Durango SRT came standard with leather and suede upholstery, providing a premium look and feel. The front seats were heavily bolstered to provide excellent support during spirited driving, while the rear seats offered plenty of space for passengers. The Durango SRT also offered a third-row seat, making it a practical choice for families.

Uconnect Infotainment System

The Durango SRT featured Dodge's Uconnect infotainment system, which was widely regarded as one of the best in the industry. The system was easy to use and offered a wide range of features, including navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Durango SRT also came standard with a premium audio system, providing excellent sound quality.

Other Technology Features

In addition to the Uconnect system, the Durango SRT offered a variety of other technology features, including:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane departure warning
• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking

These features helped to enhance safety and convenience, making the Durango SRT a well-rounded and technologically advanced SUV.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2017 Dodge Durango SRT delivers an exhilarating driving experience that sets it apart from other SUVs in its class. The combination of the powerful engine, performance-tuned suspension, and advanced technology features creates a vehicle that is both thrilling and confidence-inspiring to drive.

Acceleration and Handling

The Durango SRT's acceleration is simply breathtaking. The 6.4-liter HEMI V8 delivers a seemingly endless supply of power, allowing the Durango SRT to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The engine's responsiveness and broad torque curve make it equally adept at passing slower traffic on the highway or tackling challenging mountain roads.

The Durango SRT's handling is also surprisingly good for an SUV of its size. The performance-tuned suspension helps to keep body roll in check, while the Brembo brakes provide exceptional stopping power. The Durango SRT's steering is also well-weighted and precise, providing a good sense of connection to the road.

Ride Quality

Despite its performance focus, the Durango SRT also offers a surprisingly comfortable ride. The adaptive dampers do a good job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride. The Durango SRT is also relatively quiet inside, making it a pleasant place to spend time on long road trips.

Overall Impression

Overall, the 2017 Dodge Durango SRT is an exceptional SUV that offers a unique blend of performance, practicality, and comfort. It's a vehicle that is equally at home on the track, on the highway, or around town. If you're looking for an SUV that can do it all, the Durango SRT is definitely worth considering.

Conclusion

The 2017 Dodge Durango SRT is a testament to what happens when performance aspirations meet family-friendly needs. Its impressive horsepower and performance features make it a standout in the SUV market. Whether you're drawn to its blistering acceleration, confident handling, or well-appointed interior, the Durango SRT offers a compelling package for those who demand both power and practicality. It remains a benchmark for performance SUVs, showcasing that you don't have to sacrifice utility for the thrill of driving.

So, if you're in the market for a powerful SUV that can handle both the daily grind and the occasional track day, the 2017 Dodge Durango SRT is definitely worth a look. Just be prepared to be impressed by its remarkable blend of performance and versatility.