I am looking to buy a 2013-2014 Durango, I am looking for any pros and cons in getting the 3.6L to tow my car 1 to 2 times a year. The car is about 3,500 pounds and I have a open flat bed trailer. The towing will be mostly level and flat. My concern is maybe i am old school but a V6 to tow just does not seem right. Any thoughts would be great.

 

Well, how much does the trailer weigh? I believe the V6 is advertised to be able to tow as much as 6200 lbs. Of course, what it's rated for and what is realistic or safe are two different things.

Also, the 2014 has the 8 speed transmission, which i think would handle that load much better than the 5 speed on the 2013.

It's important to make sure that whatever you decide, you're getting the actual trailer tow group, not just the "tow package." The tow package is a dealer modification where they mount a hitch receiver to the frame, that's it. The tow group can only be done at the factory as it comes with a class IV receiver, load leveling suspension, heavy duty engine and trans cooling. They ARE NOT the same so check the VIN and make sure you're getting the tow group.

 

I agree with mcfarl
My D actually came with the tow group and not the hitch but that is how I wanted it. I wont be towing but I wanted the other features.
If the total load is even close to the max on teh V6 I would opt for the HEMI
STEVE

 

With the factory tow group, you won't have a problem. I regularly towed my 2005 GTO around TX without issues. Total weight with car, 18' steel trailer, extra tires, tools, etc ... Was about 6000 lbs. the Durango had no issues pulling it safely. I did install a good brake controller for the electric brakes on the trailer. Also got 18 MPG towing on flat ground!

Search for my username and you'll find more info on my tow setup/experience.

 

Agree with prior posts…..get the trailer towing group. Regarding the V-6, it will be working a lot harder with the 5 speed vs. the 8 speed. Driven both and the difference is pronounced for the V-6. If you get the 5.7 V-8, I wouldn't worry about a 5, 6 or 8 speed. It'll do the job.

 

If you are towing I say get the HEMI. You'll want the torque.

One of the most important things while towing, in my opinion, is the ability to get up and into traffic. Especially on a highway. I don't want the torque to be anemic when trying to merge onto a busy highway, no matter the load. I can tell you that no matter which option you choose you will enjoy the Durango's towing capabilities. I had a RAM w/ HEMI and 3.92's and I feel as though my Durango tows my boat MUCH better than my RAM.

Good luck with your decision!

 

Brian> I have the V6 on a 2012 model. My experience towing a 16.5 boat (50hp, aluminum Lund, plus Durango packed full to the ceiling, boat loaded with gear, plus family of four) is that it did a very good job. Now, often wish I had the HEMI just for the reason that I would like a little more acceleration. BUt it towed that thing just fine for about an 8 hour drive through a mix of freeway and hilly rural county roads.

If towing this thing a few times a year is your only reason to get it and you would otherwise prefer the mileage savings with the V6, yes you would probably be just fine with the V6 if you can live with a little higher revving and a little extra shifting when towing.

 

See page 505 from an owners manual from Dodge's website for the weight limits. Looks like 1,000 lbs difference between the V6 and V8. 7,200 lbs GTW on the AWD V8.

 

I have the 2013 Crew, V6, 5 speed, factory towing. I towed 5000 lb travel trailer from Atlantic ocean to Pacific ocean and return. Around 7000 miles. 7800 feet at continental divide. Mostly between 10 - 12 MPG. 14 MPG for a tank without ethanol! Easily get mid 20's without towing. Highly recommend the V6.

Ray