Leaked info about the new platform for Dodge Durango will lead this SUV into a new generation. Well, it was about time, but we will have to wait for a bit more. The new, fourth generation is coming with the 2021 Dodge Durango. The major change for this model will be the new architecture. The body-on-frame concept is going to replace the existing unibody platform. There are further changes caused by this one. Also, the 2021 Durango will add advantages of vehicles riding on the BoF platform. Finally, the company is going to move the production of the SUV from existing plants.
Why Dodge is doing this to Durango? The SUV achieves better and better sales every year. But, the FCA, the parent company, already has a model in the same class performing better in the market. It is Jeep Grand Cherokee. Although both SUVs had satisfying results, chiefs decided to bring 2021 Dodge Durango back to its roots. This nameplate was using BoF platform in the previous generation. After discontinuation, the comeback model introduced the new architecture. By moving Durango to body-on-frame setup, the company will get a model different from Grand Cherokee. That will give another option to buyers in the US.
2021 Dodge Durango Engine and Specs Prediction
With a variety of engines the current generation of Dodge Durango has to offer, there is no doubt some of them will continue to be in use. However, with a long time for development, we can’t predict anything. The FCA could surprise with some new units.
But, it is more certain that most of the $1.1 billion investment won’t be spent on it. Instead, the 2021 Dodge Durango can count on the same old unit, including V6 and V8 unit. Furthermore, the meanest SRT will definitely come back, but this time, with more capability for an off-roading. The unit that can produce 500 horses is something special already, but when the FCA upgrades it for various terrains performance, we will see a spectacular ride.
V6, V8, and a Hybrid
The 2021 Dodge Durango of a new generation will have a whole bunch of engines to offer. Besides the base V-6, upper trim levels will come with V8 motors. That is not all, the most interesting, Durango SRT is getting a huge 6.4-liter V8 unit, used by Ram HD trucks. But, for the SUV, it produces more power and torque.
We should add a hybrid as a possibility as well. These are the latest rumors, based on the new Ram 1500 mild-hybrid truck. With such model having electric support for its powertrain, why Durango wouldn’t use the similar setup as well. However, this is only a rumor. We still don’t know if there is such a project for the upcoming vehicle.
2021 Dodge Durango Body-On-Frame Platform
With the new platform, the 2021 Dodge Durango can count on few advantages over other models using unibody architecture. First of all, vehicles built on body-on-frame are durable and more capable for an off-road ride. There, the SUV is suffering too many hits and the body must resist. That is why materials are stronger, but not lighter, so these models are heavier.
Being built in two parts makes body-on-frame vehicles less safe. With unibody construction, the entire body absorbs energy. The lack of safety BoF vehicles make up with better performance and towing capacity. If 2021 Durango manages to boost its current capability it could become one of the best towing SUVs in the world.
2021 Dodge Durango Production
The current generation is built in Detroit, together with its close sibling – Jeep Grand Cherokee. Having two rivals coming from the same lines is not so smart. Since this was the reason to move 2021 Dodge Durango to BoF platform, the SUV couldn’t be assembled at the same place anymore. The FCA is going to move it to Warren, Michigan. In the same factory, Ram 1500 is being produced. With the new investment, the FCA will expand the production capabilities, which will make room for Durango.
2021 Dodge Durango Release Date
There is still a lot of time before we see the first test mules and spy shots of 2021 Dodge Durango. At this moment, move to a body-on-frame platform is just an idea. The concept expects the start of realization. First prototypes are not arriving before 2020. Then, we will know more about this SUV.
