2017 Dodge Durango Citadel: A Comprehensive Review

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel, a three-row SUV that's been turning heads and hauling families for years. We'll explore everything from its powerful engine options to its luxurious interior, and whether it's the right SUV for you. Buckle up; it's going to be a fun ride! This article provides a comprehensive 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review, covering various aspects of the vehicle, including performance, interior, features, and overall value.

Performance and Powertrain: Power Under the Hood

Alright, let's talk about what makes the Durango Citadel tick. Under the hood, you have some serious options. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that's no slouch, pumping out a respectable amount of horsepower and torque. It's a great choice for everyday driving and offers decent fuel economy. But if you're like me, and you crave a bit more oomph, then you might be interested in the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8. This thing is a beast, providing loads of power for towing and merging onto the highway. The HEMI is a classic, known for its iconic sound and impressive performance. You can also get a mind-blowing 6.4-liter V8 in the SRT trim, but that's a different beast altogether.

• Engine Options: The 2017 Durango Citadel offers a choice of engines, catering to different needs and preferences. The standard 3.6-liter V6 provides a balance of power and efficiency, while the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8 delivers robust performance and towing capabilities.
• Transmission and Drivetrain: All engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth gear changes and optimal performance. The Durango Citadel is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, providing options for various driving conditions and preferences.
• Performance Metrics: The V6 engine offers adequate acceleration and fuel economy for daily driving. The HEMI V8 significantly enhances performance, with quicker acceleration and increased towing capacity.

Let's get into the nitty-gritty. The 3.6-liter V6 is a solid engine, perfect for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and everyday usability. It's got plenty of power for city driving, and it's even capable of handling highway trips with ease. The eight-speed automatic transmission does a great job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing both performance and fuel economy. However, if you're looking for something that can really get up and go, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is where it's at. This engine provides a significant boost in power and torque, making passing and merging a breeze. The HEMI also gives the Durango a towing capacity that's hard to beat in its class.

When it comes to the driving experience, the Durango Citadel feels confident and composed on the road. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, even over rough surfaces. The steering is responsive, and the brakes are strong, giving you plenty of control. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising down the highway, the Durango Citadel is a pleasure to drive. With a focus on user-friendly technology and premium materials, the Citadel trim offers a driving experience that’s as luxurious as it is practical. The 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review highlights these performance aspects, giving you a comprehensive understanding of what this SUV offers.

Interior and Features: Luxury and Comfort for the Whole Family

Step inside the Durango Citadel, and you'll be greeted by a cabin that's designed for comfort and convenience. The seats are plush and supportive, even on long drives. There's plenty of space for both front- and rear-seat passengers, and the third row is surprisingly accommodating for adults. The Citadel trim level adds a touch of luxury with premium materials and upscale features.

• Seating and Space: The Durango Citadel offers three rows of seating, comfortably accommodating up to seven passengers. The second-row captain's chairs provide ample legroom and comfort, while the third-row seats are suitable for adults on shorter trips.
• Infotainment and Technology: The Durango Citadel features a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. The system includes navigation, smartphone integration, and various connectivity options.
• Comfort and Convenience: The Citadel trim level comes with a range of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system.

The materials used throughout the cabin are high-quality, giving the Durango a premium feel. You'll find soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and door panels, along with real wood accents. The infotainment system is easy to use, with a large touchscreen display that's intuitive and responsive. You'll also find a host of tech features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to integrate your smartphone.

Seating and Space: The Durango Citadel is all about family-friendliness. The seating arrangement is versatile, with options for bench seats or captain's chairs in the second row. Access to the third row is relatively easy, making it a practical choice for families with kids. The overall space is generous, providing plenty of room for passengers and cargo.

Infotainment and Technology: The Durango Citadel's infotainment system is a highlight. The touchscreen display is large and clear, and the interface is user-friendly. The system includes features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. There are also plenty of USB ports and power outlets to keep everyone's devices charged. The 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review focuses on these features, giving you a detailed look at the Durango's interior.

Trim Levels and Options: Choosing the Right Package

Alright, let's talk about trim levels and options. The Durango Citadel is the top-of-the-line trim, so it comes loaded with features. However, you can also choose from other trim levels, such as the SXT, GT, and R/T, each offering a different combination of features and price points. The Citadel trim adds a touch of luxury, with features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system.

• Trim Level Overview: The 2017 Dodge Durango is available in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and options. The base SXT trim provides essential features, while the GT trim adds sportier styling and performance enhancements. The R/T trim features a powerful V8 engine and performance-oriented upgrades, and the Citadel trim offers the most luxurious experience.
• Citadel Specific Features: The Citadel trim stands out with its premium features, including Nappa leather upholstery, a power sunroof, and a premium audio system. Other notable features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a heated steering wheel.
• Optional Packages: Various optional packages are available, allowing you to customize the Durango Citadel to your specific needs and preferences. These packages may include advanced safety features, technology upgrades, and performance enhancements.

The Citadel trim is the ultimate in luxury and convenience. It's got everything you could want, from the aforementioned premium leather seats to a power sunroof and a high-end sound system. There are also a lot of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, to help keep you and your family safe on the road. If you're looking for a vehicle that's packed with features and offers a premium driving experience, the Durango Citadel is the way to go.

If you're on a budget, the SXT trim is a great starting point. It's got all the essentials, plus a few extra features to make your life easier. The GT trim is a step up, with sportier styling and performance enhancements. The R/T trim is for those who crave power, with a more potent engine and performance upgrades. This 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review also provides a look at the various trim levels available, helping you make the right choice.

Safety Features: Protecting What Matters Most

Safety is a top priority, and the Durango Citadel is equipped with a range of features to keep you and your passengers safe. You'll find airbags throughout the cabin, along with electronic stability control and traction control to help you maintain control in challenging driving conditions.

• Airbags and Restraints: The Durango Citadel is equipped with multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide comprehensive protection in the event of a collision.
• Driver-Assistive Technologies: Advanced driver-assistive technologies are available, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing safety and convenience.
• Crash Test Ratings: The 2017 Dodge Durango has received positive crash test ratings from reputable organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Durango also comes with a suite of driver-assistive technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features can help you avoid accidents and make your driving experience more relaxed. The Durango's safety ratings are generally good, with solid scores in crash tests conducted by the NHTSA and the IIHS.

The Durango Citadel includes a robust set of safety features to provide peace of mind. The inclusion of advanced driver-assistive technologies contributes to a safer driving experience. Crash test ratings from reputable organizations further validate the vehicle's safety performance. This 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review covers the safety aspects in detail.

Fuel Economy and Value: Balancing Performance and Cost

Let's talk about the practical stuff: fuel economy and value. The Durango's fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. The V6 engine is the most fuel-efficient option, while the HEMI V8 consumes more fuel. But hey, you're paying for performance, right? The Durango offers a good value proposition, especially when you consider its features, performance, and overall capability.

• Fuel Efficiency: Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. The V6 engine offers better fuel efficiency compared to the HEMI V8.
• Pricing and Value: The 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel offers a competitive price point, providing a balance of features, performance, and value. The SUV's robust capabilities and premium features contribute to its overall value proposition.
• Resale Value: The Durango generally holds its value well, making it a sound investment. Factors such as mileage, condition, and trim level influence the resale value.

Fuel Economy: The V6 engine will give you the best fuel economy, making it a good choice for those who do a lot of city driving. The HEMI V8, on the other hand, will guzzle more gas, but you'll get a lot more power in return.

Pricing and Value: When compared to its competitors, the Durango Citadel offers a compelling value proposition. It offers a lot of features and performance for the price, especially when you consider the luxurious interior and the impressive towing capacity. The 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review explores fuel economy and value, providing a holistic understanding of the vehicle's financial aspects.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Okay, guys, let's sum it all up with a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Durango Citadel. This will help you decide if it's the right SUV for you.

• Pros: The Durango Citadel boasts a powerful engine lineup, a luxurious and well-equipped interior, and a spacious cabin with three rows of seating. It also offers a comfortable ride and a user-friendly infotainment system.
• Cons: Some potential drawbacks include the higher fuel consumption of the HEMI V8 engine, the size, which might make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and the higher price point compared to some competitors.

Pros: The Durango Citadel has a lot going for it. The engine options are powerful, giving you a choice between fuel efficiency and raw power. The interior is luxurious and well-equipped, and there's plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The ride is comfortable, and the infotainment system is easy to use. The Durango offers a great blend of performance, luxury, and practicality.

Cons: The main downsides are the fuel consumption of the HEMI V8, which can be a concern for some drivers. The Durango is a large SUV, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. The 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review presents a balanced perspective, weighing the advantages and disadvantages to aid in your decision-making.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel the right SUV for you? If you're looking for a three-row SUV that offers a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality, then the answer is a resounding yes! The Durango Citadel is a well-rounded vehicle that's perfect for families and anyone who needs a spacious and capable SUV.

Whether you're looking for a family hauler, a road trip companion, or something that can handle a bit of everything, the Durango Citadel is definitely worth a look. Its combination of power, comfort, and features makes it a standout in its class. With its powerful engine options, luxurious interior, and versatile capabilities, the Durango Citadel is a solid choice for those seeking a premium three-row SUV experience. This 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review helps you decide whether this SUV is the right fit.

Thanks for tuning in, guys! I hope this 2017 Dodge Durango Citadel review has been helpful. If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below. Happy driving!