The 2017 Durango represents a significant moment for Dodge, sitting at the intersection of capability and comfort in the full-size SUV segment. This specific model year refined the platform established by its predecessor, focusing on improving the daily driver experience without sacrificing the rugged character the brand is known for. For anyone considering this vehicle, understanding the interior is paramount, as it is the primary space where families spend time together during long journeys or short trips to the store.
The Evolution of the 2017 Cabin
Compared to the outgoing model, the 2017 Durango interior introduced subtle yet impactful upgrades that elevated the cabin's perceived quality. Dodge focused on materials, moving away from harder plastics in favor of softer-touch surfaces in the immediate driver area. This change was part of a broader industry trend where manufacturers recognized that the tactile feel of a vehicle's interior is just as important as its mechanical specifications. The design language remained familiar, ensuring existing Durango owners would feel at home while providing a fresh experience for new buyers.
Seating Comfort and Configuration
One of the strongest selling points of the 2017 model is its seating versatility. The standard third-row seating transforms the vehicle from a standard midsize SUV into a genuine seven-passenger hauler, accommodating larger families with ease. Cloth remained the standard upholstery for the base models, offering a durable and easy-to-clean surface that is ideal for households with children or pets. For those who desired additional luxury, premium leather-trimmed seating surfaces were available, providing enhanced support and a more refined aesthetic that justified the higher trim levels.
Technology and Infotainment Features
The center console of the 2017 Durango housed the technological heart of the vehicle, featuring the Uconnect system. The base models came equipped with a standard five-inch touchscreen, which provided access to essential functions like the radio, phone, and vehicle settings. Higher tranches upgraded this to an eight-inch display, which was a significant size advantage in the segment. This larger screen supported navigation with real-time traffic, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a robust suite of smartphone integration options, ensuring drivers remained connected without being distracted.
Interior Storage and Practicality
Practicality is a cornerstone of the Durango's design philosophy, and the 2017 model excelled in providing accessible storage solutions. The front cabin featured ample door bins capable of swallowing water bottles, sunglasses, and loose change without issue. The center console included a divided storage compartment perfect for securing smaller items like keys or charging cables, preventing them from rolling under the seats. Additionally, the rear cabin offered decent legroom for adults on longer trips, a feature that is often sacrificed in similar three-row vehicles to prioritize cargo space.
Cargo Capacity and Versatility While the focus here is the interior, the 2017 Durango's cargo capability is intrinsically linked to its interior utility. With the third row folded flat, the rear cargo area expands significantly, allowing for the transport of large items such as furniture, appliances, or camping gear. The rear floor is relatively flat, maximizing the usable volume. Furthermore, the 60/40 split-folding second-row bench provided flexibility, allowing owners to balance passenger count with the size of their cargo loads, a flexibility that remains essential for active lifestyles. Trim Level Variations and Material Quality
While the focus here is the interior, the 2017 Durango's cargo capability is intrinsically linked to its interior utility. With the third row folded flat, the rear cargo area expands significantly, allowing for the transport of large items such as furniture, appliances, or camping gear. The rear floor is relatively flat, maximizing the usable volume. Furthermore, the 60/40 split-folding second-row bench provided flexibility, allowing owners to balance passenger count with the size of their cargo loads, a flexibility that remains essential for active lifestyles.
To truly understand the 2017 Durango interior, one must consider the variations between trim levels. The SXT and GT trims served as the workhorses, offering the standard features necessary for most buyers. The R/T trim stepped up the performance aesthetic with sportier seats and enhanced audio. The Limited and above trims introduced premium elements such as quilted leather, heated front and rear seats, and power-adjustable pedals. These higher trims utilized softer materials and finer stitching, creating a cabin that felt genuinely luxurious and distinct from the base models.
