“Can you say Hemi?”
Sure, because this week we’re test-driving the 2004 Dodge Durango SLT 4x4 with the powerful Hemi engine. The Hemi is Chrysler’s performance statement that dates back to the ‘50s, when powerful Hemi Red Ram engines of all sizes powered hot rods and dragsters across the United States. Today, the 5.7-liter 2004 version of the famed engine is quite a bit different, yet still produces the spirited performance its legacy dictates.
Durango has been cleverly redesigned for 2004, resulting in a more forceful look. The new Durango is 7 inches longer and 3 inches wider than the preceding model, and also boasts bigger interior numbers in head, leg, hip and shoulder room for driver and passengers. There continues to be seating for seven with the added third-row seat and plenty of cargo room with various folding seat arrangements.
It’s under the hood, however, where we find the most interesting item: the Hemi engine. The 5.7-liter (345-inch) Magnum Hemi V-8 churns out 345 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque. Featured are electronic throttle control, aluminum cylinder heads, hemispherical combustion chambers, 9.6-1 compression ratio and two spark plugs per cylinder to burn fuel more efficiently. It costs another $895, but if towing a boat or hauling seven passengers is in your future, it’s your best choice.
Our 4x4 mid-level SLT Durango came with the $1,515 Customer Preferred Package, which mated beautiful 8-inch cast aluminum wheels to 17-inch standard tires. Other package items include a great-sounding eight-speaker, six-disc, 288-watt stereo system; overhead console; cargo net; security features; and lighted vanity mirrors, to name a few.
The cabin has also been redesigned. The dashboard is new, and better-designed seats provide more support to the left and right and also for the back and thighs. The view of the road for driver and passenger is excellent, and all safety items expected nowadays are included in the base price. As for the air conditioning system, don’t fret. You won’t have to pay extra for the rear passenger air ducts and controls — it’s all standard.
Durango comes standard with dual-stage front airbags with occupant-sensing system. Durango also offers a side-curtain airbag option that covers all three rows, but our tester did not include this feature. We recommend it however, as air bags do save lives. As for traction control, you’ll have to shell out another $300, but we also recommend it as part of a great standard four-wheel disc-brake ABS system.
The on-road experience is very good, with comfort and power readily available. Our tester had a 3.92 ratio rear end for better towing and acceleration, although don’t expect this Hemi to put you back in your seat like a muscle car. Durango is too heavy, but rest assured this Hemi will get you there with authority.
Important numbers include a 119.2-inch wheelbase, 5,117-pound curb weight, 27-gallon fuel tank, 8,700-pound towing capacity with the $525 towing group, and 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway EPA numbers.
The final tally came in at $35,680 with all options and destination charge, but Dodge is offering $3,500 cash back, so check it out. It’s worth a drive.
Can we say Hemi? Sure, and we’ll rate this Durango an eight on a scale of one to 10, with 10 the highest. It’s sweet.
Likes: Hemi engine, comfort, build quality, looks
Dislikes: Traction control not standard, fuel mileage, a bit too heavy