Dodge Durango 2011, Research Paper Example

The 2011 Dodge Durango Crew AWD had many improvements on previous models, and made an important impression on road testers, according to Car & Driver magazine (Yanca, 2011). This model is the third to be released in the Durango family, and it improves upon its predecessors in a number of areas (Yanca, 2011). The model in question is provides a number of impressive characteristics to drivers, even though it is a rather heavy model, at over 5,000 pounds (Yanca, 2011). Nonetheless, this model manages to handle roads and curves rather effortlessly, and its steering column and brake system are attractive to drivers, with the brakes particularly effective in road tests (Yanca, 2011). The interior of this model is expertly designed and provides attractive qualities that many consumers are seeking in their SUV models (Yanca, 2011). Finally, the interior does not pose any real complexities in identifying basic features such as the radio and the heating and cooling system (Yanca, 2011). In general, this model provides many positive features that are worthy of further consideration.

On the other hand, as with any SUV model, there are a number of weaknesses or negative attributes that should be addressed that take away from the overall quality and performance of the vehicle. For example, the article mentions that “Our only real gripe came with the five-speed automatic transmission, which is in dire need of at least one more forward gear” (Yanca, 2011). Therefore, this vehicle requires a more effective transmission system to achieve the desired level of performance in shifting (Yanca, 2011). In addition, this vehicle’s performance with the V6 model is not at the level of some other models in the same class (Edmunds.com, 2011). Also, this model does not provide the level of space for cargo as some of its other rivals, which is a negative attribute for some potential buyers (Edmunds.com, 2011). Finally, as a general rule, this model does not provide a high level of efficiency with its gas mileage, and this is a problem for some buyers.

In addressing these concerns further, Chrysler must overcome some of its most glaring weaknesses, which include perceptions of the brand image itself. Some SUV shoppers will not view a Chrysler/Dodge product as a viable alternative simply because it is an American model, as some buyers prefer their foreign counterparts. As a result, it may be difficult to sway some potential buyers due to their deeply rooted preferences. Furthermore, for some buyers, this SUV might just be too large, as it has a third row of seating that might not be necessary in some cases (Johnson, 2011). It is ultimately the decision of each individual buyer as to whether or not this vehicle is appropriately equipped to fit their specific needs. However, this model represents one of the greater achievements of the Dodge line in recent years, as it provides many attractive features and supports the needs of many larger families who seek the comfort of a larger SUV. The model is priced competitively; however, this is not always desirable for some buyers who might seek a lower cost alternative. Therefore, this model is an attractive and affordable find for those buyers with specific preferences and needs for an SUV in this class, and for those seeking a larger vehicle with sufficient seating and space to hold their items.

References

2011 Dodge Durango. Edmunds.com. 1 March 2012: http://www.edmunds.com/dodge/durango/2011/

Johnson, Drew, 2011. “Review: 2011 Dodge Durango CrewLux AWD.” 1 March 2012: http://www.leftlanenews.com/dodge-durango-crewlux-awd-review.html

Yanca, Jon, 2011. “2011 Dodge Durango Crew V6 AWD.” 1 March 2011: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2011-dodge-durango-crew-v6-awd-road-test-review