09/25/2013 (press release: CambridgePRGroup) // Hot Springs, Ark. // Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
A new eight-speed automatic transmission has elevated the fuel economy of the Dodge Durango from the middle of the hotly contested full-size SUV segment to the top for the 2014 model year. The EPA recently rated the standard 2014 Dodge Durango at 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, with both figures leading all V6-powered full-size SUVs. As the only vehicle in its class to also offer a V8 engine, the 2014 Durango outfitted with the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8 benefits from the same transmission and achieves up to 23 mpg on the highway while churning out 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.
While the new eight-speed transmission with a rotary shifter provides an improvement of up to 9 percent in fuel efficiency with its wide ratio spread, both of the Durango’s engines carry over from the previous model year. The base powerplant remains the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, which produces 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Conceding just one mile per gallon compared to the standard model, the V6-equipped 2014 Dodge Durango with all-wheel drive now stands alone as the most efficient all-wheel-drive large SUV on the highway, netting 24 mpg.
“The Durango’s new transmission allows it to return leading gas mileage without sacrificing its signature capability, including its best-in-class 7,400-pound towing capacity with the V8,” said Tim Parker, dealer principal of Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, an Arkansas Dodge dealer. “Dodge also ensured that the Durango’s exterior and interior were modernized along with that drivetrain advancement, incorporating sleeker styling and the latest in-car technology.”
The refreshed 2014 Dodge Durango received a number of exterior modifications that give the full-size crossover SUV a more streamlined look. Slimmer projector-beam headlights and a racetrack LED tail lamp give the model a modern appearance, while a floating split-crosshair front grille, a sculpted hood and a raised front bumper build upon the muscular styling of past generations. A choice of seven different designs for the range of 18- and 20-inch aluminum wheels also provides additional customization options.
Inside the cabin, the 2014 Dodge Durango is equipped with advanced technology, ranging from a standard five-inch touchscreen that controls functions like audio, climate and phone calls, to an available 8.4-inch touchscreen that accesses apps like Pandora, iHeartradio and Slacker in the Uconnect Access infotainment system. Drivers seeking more control on the road will appreciate the new three-spoke steering wheel with standard paddle shifters, while rear passengers can enjoy an optional Blu-ray and DVD player featuring high-resolution nine-inch screens mounted on the back of the front seats.
“The 2014 Dodge Durango is as tough as they come under the hood, but it is also a comfortable and entertaining people carrier for large families,” added Parker. “This is a spacious three-row SUV that appeals to buyers not only for its practicality but also for its unbeatable performance and attractive looks.”
About Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram:
A winner of Chrysler’s Five-Star Dealer and Environmental Leadership awards, Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has been serving Arkansas drivers for years with new and pre-owned car sales, service and parts at their Hot Springs auto dealership. Whether you’re looking for a Ram 1500, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger or Jeep Wrangler, Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram will find your ideal model with their unmatched customer-first approach. You can visit their showroom located at 4722 Central Ave. in Hot Springs, call them at 888-227-1487 or find them online at www.timparkerchrysler.com. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TimParkerAuto.
