If you haven’t heard, the Durango is going back to the body-on-frame platform. Leaked sources are confirming, although the company is yet to make a statement. But, plans are that 2020 Dodge Durango will present it, while production can start in 2021. With so much time, we won’t hear it from FCA in near future. However, it is happening. This SUV used BoF concept in the previous generation. With the third series started in 2009, the vehicle moved to unibody concept. Now, it comes back to its old days.
Trucks are the best-known for the body-on-frame platforms. Since the Ram 1500 is also using this architecture, the FCA is going to move production of 2020 Dodge Durango to same plants. Warren, Michigan is the new home for the flagship SUV. Furthermore, Durango is one of the most versatile models in the market. It has numerous trim levels, from which the most exciting is definitely Durango SRT. This one will be in the lineup for 2020. The SUV is so good that police is going to use it from next year.
Body-on-Frame vs Unibody Architectures
Both architectures have its pros and cons. For example, the BoF is using stronger materials. It makes vehicles durable, especially these which are going off-road. On the other hand, these materials are heavier. So, unibody parts are making these model lighter, easier to steer, and fuel friendlier. Another advantage of the unibody platform is safety. How is it possible if they are made of lighter materials? In this case, the entire body absorbs energy in a crash.
The body-on-frame platform comes in two parts – body and ladder frame. This allows BoF vehicles to provide better towing capacity. Also, the suspension is easier to tune, and off-road adventurers are especially grateful for this.
2020 Dodge Durango Production
Current Durango, together with Jeep Grand Cherokee, is built in the plant in Detroit. Since the vehicle is using a new platform, its production is going to the factory where Ram 1500 is being assembled. It is predicted to move since the building of a new plant would cost too much.
Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the reasons why 2020 Dodge Durango is going to use a new platform and move its production. These two mid-size SUVs are rivals, although coming from the same parent company. The FCA don’t want such rivalries. Durango used BoF platform before, it is very popular, so the change will definitely cause more attention. On the other hand, buyers that like the unibody concept the most can stick to Grand Cherokee. The SUV will take some parts from its rival and sibling for sure.
2020 Dodge Durango Specs and Drivetrains
The change of platform doesn’t mean the 2020 Dodge Durango will change everything. Well, the SUV keep the current engine lineup. Besides that, the FCA engineers could add a new unit. The entry-level models will carry a 3.6-liter V-6 powertrain. This one is quite impotent compared to it siblings. But, for the standard offer, it is good for 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic gearbox is standard in the entire 2020 Dodge Durango lineup, including models that use larger engines.
So, R/T and Citadel SUVs are getting power from a 5.7-l mill. The outputs are 360 hp and 290 lb-ft of twist through the same gearbox. A rear-wheel drive is still standard, while the optional mode is all-wheel drive.
2020 Dodge Durango SRT
Top of the range vehicle and the SUV that we can take as a model for itself is Dodge Durango SRT. Why? Unique styling, equipment, and the beast under the bonnet can’t be matched by any of other models under this nameplate. And there will be at least five more. Even the unit the police is going to add to its pursuits is not as powerful as SRT.
The performance-oriented vehicle is using a 6.4-liter V-8 engine. In the current model it can make 475 horsepower. If rumors are true, the 2020 Dodge Durango SRT is going up to 500 hp. This is a possible outcome of the engine revisit. Well, the beefed SUV is using the same transmission as the lower-level models. On the other hand, no RWD is available here, only all-wheel drive. Even with improvements, the 2020 Durango SRT is going to consume a lot of fuel. With 15 mpg we can say poor, but buyers that spend over $65,000 for its ride are not worried about consumption.
2020 Dodge Durango Changes
After installing a new platform, the entire vehicle will have to adapt to it. Engines are taking the least changes. But, the appearance of the 2020 Dodge Durango could be much different compared to the current model.
There is still too much time before the first images of the 2020 Dodge Durango are going to appear. Also, the BoF is a rumor from a leaked source, so it is still unknown if FCA goes into production straight away. However, we also found out that 2021 Durango is going to be the first to present new architecture. The SUV in 2020 is making a debut of BoF platform as a concept vehicle.
Late in 2019, we will know more about 2020 Dodge Durango. By then, the first info from the company should be available. We will wait eagerly for first renders and possibly spy shots. Also, fans would like to know more about dimensions, length, and the look. Experts can’t make predictions and build this car based only on the platform switch.
2020 Dodge Durango Release Date, Price Modifications
Only one thing is certain – the 2020 Dodge Durango built on the new platform is not going to be cheaper. Current SUV is available from $32,000. Whatsoever, Durango is going to have so many options for upgrading, including engines, type of drives, trim levels, additional packages and features. Combining these, we can make numerous versions of the SUV. But, none is going to be more exclusive than 2020 Dodge Durango SRT. This model with base equipment (which is already premium) will cost close to $70,000 with new BoF platform. The significant increase is certain for other versions, right from the base one which could jump to $35,000.
Data about the release date is still unclear. Some sources are claiming the new platform will come with 2020 Dodge Durango, while other rumors are informing this is not happening before the 2021 year model.
With the new platform being RAM 1500, will the designers have a chance to make the lift gate back to the 48″ opening? ( I carry lots of 4 X 8 plywood or sheet rock)