The 2015 Dodge Durango RT represents a significant moment in the evolution of the full-size three-row SUV, blending muscular American performance with surprising daily usability. This specific model year marked a return to the high-performance RT trim, which signaled a serious commitment to power and handling dynamics. While the van-like silhouette might suggest lumbering inefficiency, the engineers behind the 2015 model focused on creating a competent grand tourer. Owners of this specific year often praise the blend of luxury, capability, and brute force that defines the Dodge philosophy.
Design and Exterior Presence
From the front, the 2015 Durango RT commands attention with its aggressive crossover fascia, characterized by large LED projector headlights and a prominent chrome grille. The design language draws direct inspiration from the Challenger coupe, ensuring the vehicle looks wide and planted even when stationary. Body-colored side steps and a rear spoiler are standard on the RT package, emphasizing its performance intent without looking tacky. The overall stance is lower and wider than the base models, giving the vehicle a more athletic and purposeful silhouette on the road.
Performance Specifications and Capabilities
Under the hood, the heart of the 2015 Durango RT is a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine, a technology that has been refined over more than a decade. This naturally aspirated powerhouse delivers a robust 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, providing effortless acceleration and confident passing power. The output is channeled to the rear wheels via a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, although the all-wheel-drive system is a popular option for those living in regions with harsh weather. The suspension is tuned specifically for the RT, offering a firmer ride than the base models without sacrificing comfort on long journeys.
Drivetrain and Efficiency
Fuel economy for the 2015 Durango RT reflects its size and power, though it manages to be reasonable for the segment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated 15 miles per gallon in the city and 21 miles per gallon on the highway for the rear-wheel-drive version. All-wheel-drive models saw a slight drop to 14 city and 20 highway MPG. These numbers are competitive within the full-size SUV class, proving that the HEMI engine utilizes its displacement efficiently despite the vehicle's weight. The fuel tank capacity of 3.6 gallons provides a respectable driving range between fill-ups.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the 2015 Durango RT, and the contrast to the rugged exterior becomes apparent. The cabin is designed to accommodate seven passengers comfortably, with captain’s chairs in the second row providing ample support and the third row serving as a viable option for adults on shorter trips. Materials quality is high, featuring premium leather upholstery and soft-touch plastics that elevate the cabin above its competitors. The RT trim specifically includes upgraded Nappa leather seating surfaces, adding a tactile level of luxury that justifies its position in the lineup.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Uconnect infotainment system is the technological hub of the interior, featuring a standard 8.4-inch touchscreen display in the 2015 model year. This interface provides intuitive access to the navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, and integration with both SiriusXM satellite radio and available streaming services. The premium audio system, often sourced by Harman Kardon or Alpine, delivers exceptional clarity and power, transforming the cabin into a mobile concert hall. Physical buttons remain for critical functions like climate control, ensuring usability while driving.
