The 2003 Dodge Durango R/T, with a 5.9L V8 is a torque beast that continues to soldier on after years of heavy use. This vehicle still has its original engine and transmission, and a documented service record going back to initial purchase. At 200,589 miles, the truck seems just as strong and apt as a brand new one. Build quality is what you would expect in this segment from an American manufacturer. Of course there are some loose trim pieces (visors in particular) and some of the electrically powered accessories (sun roof) are starting to show some eccentricities. However, with the optional 8 inch wide wheels and a set of Pirelli P-Zero tires, this truck handles as well as most cars and is a fun ride down twisty back roads. It plants well in the middle of the corner and accelerates through the apexes willingly. The bottom end grunt is handy for towing or hauling and the power band is as wide as a Humvee. It's easy to drive and rarely breaks loose at the rear end, despite having so much torque. Paint is still wearing well after so many years and still looks good in comparison to today's vehicles. Although the mid-year Durangos (2004-2008) have not aged well with their larger, more straight edged design, this design still looks good and the stance of the vehicle with its running boards and front ground effects make it look eager and fun.

At first I really enjoyed this vehicle. It was a great car inside and out. But then I started having problems. The trim around the windows for example is cracking off so I feel it is not sturdy enough. Another problem I had was when I went to gas it would not sense it was full so it would overflow the gas all over the place. I told the dealership since it was under warranty and they claimed nothing was wrong with it. As soon as the warranty was up they found the problem. They made me pay to fix it. It ended up being a recall (as I knew it would) and they gave me back the money. But it always seemed to be a problem at the dealership. They got grease on the roof of my car after an oil change as well as water all over the floorboard. I feel once I got the car they did not want to help me. The car overall performs well it just not has been worth it with all the recalls and having to deal with dealership. Another things I was not happy about was the center console. It has become faded. I was also not happy about the plastic below the seats as it is cheap and is cracking.