So, I have been looking at a new truck for a while and right now the 2014 Durango was at the top of my list with the refresh and all. I have been following posts on this site and others and thought I would finally register and ask some questions.

I was looking at a 2014 RT or a Limited/Citadel v6 with specific options depending on best deals. As specced I am seeing anywhere from $42k-46k MSRP. I was about to start reaching out to dealers for pricing and maybe start scheduling some test drives when I saw a dealer had about 5 leftover 2013 Citadels basically all maxed out (MSRP $51k+).

Now they had a few options I wasn't really interested in like DVD entertainment and 2nd row Captains chairs and colors I wouldn't have preferred but they also priced them at $39,999. That's over a 20% discount. I liked that the 2014 had the new transmission, 8.4 uconnect and I don't like losing a possible seat by not getting the bench in the back but I am wondering if it is foolish not to consider the 2013.

I could try to hardball them on he 2013 when getting pricing on a 2014 but I have read about how much more improved the 2014 felt. What kind of discount would you feel would be too good to pass up?

 

I realize the 8 speed will deliver better gas mileage and better acceleration thru the gears. The 6 speed has proven to be reliable strong transmission.
The 8.4 U connect is nice , but does not come without flaws the 730n radio in my D works flawlessly albeit not being that fancy. For me If I could get 20-25%off of my D I would take that.
I am sure most will say take the 14
Good Luck with your D purchase
STEVE

 

I was in your shoes back in November. I ended up going with a 13 RT with the color and options I wanted. Got a little over $7k off MSRP at that time. You'll do a little better if they still have some.

At first I was kicking myself for not doing the 14 as I had some bugs to work out but now that it's all dialed in, I love it.

Either way, you can't go wrong. They are badass vehicles.

I get looks ALL the time with the Stormtrooper white with Blacktop pkg. Find people taking pictures of the thing. Haha. Cracks me up every time.

 

Besides the outside refresh on the 14' your paying for the 8 speed, new nav and gauge cluster. It would be different if they updated chassis tuning or gave you more power. My opinion is to drive them both and see for yourself that the 14's just not worth the premium. Save the cash and make your ride sweet...

 

Shop around and see what deal you can come up with and drive them... I was in the same boat last month and I ended up with a '14. I was able to get just under $7k off of sticker on an SXT Plus and then had them throw in remote start. You should be able to do better on a more expensive model.

 

Depends what you want out of it. I actually prefer the system in my 2012, and I have the lockpick, can watch whatever I want and it has the DVD up front also, unlocked. I test drove the 14 R/T and was impressed with the 8 speed, but really, thats about it. Wasnt impressed that the console in middle had a CD player(if you choose one) and lose all that storage space. I say to myself every day, besides the mods I have done, the truck really has all the bells and whistles anyone could want and the 2014 really doesnt offer much more IMO.

But for the price 2013 is going to get you more bang for your buck!!

Good luck!

 

Even at $40K the 13's are only worth $33K trade in. So there's another $7k hit right there. As the new 14's gain traction the 11-13's will continue to depreciate since the tranny is so bad. I know cause I just traded my 13 Citadel for a 14 R/T. 11-13 Durango's rate around 63 in Consumer Reports; 14's rate 83. It may seem like a better deal up front...

 

Tranny's are so bad?? Maybe anemic with the V-6 but my R/T does fine. This 6 speed has been around for a long time and is solid.

There are other considerations. No more floor stick (rotary dial), CD player in the console, different front and rear light treatment.

Get what you want and enjoy it. 2014 Durangos will have no better resale than 2013 Durangos. Dodge resale is crap and has always been crap compared to Honda and Toyota…...

 

Being that I had a lemon of a 13 RT ... I am a bit biased that I have a working vehicle now. Yet after driving the 13 vs the 14. I am really enjoying the 14 .. I love the fact that I can turn off the stupid navigation voice

 

Lol, I am getting prepared for the 13 vs 14 Durango owner rumble in the alley behind the dodge dealer. I don't have a switchblade, are bats ok? How about a chain, doesn't someone always swing a chain around in the movies when there is a rumble......


Seriously, drive them all, weigh the cost, and get what you are happy with. I personally paid the premium for the 14 R/T and love it.