Best Durango Gt Plus 2023: Ultimate SUV Review & Specs

There are plenty of three-row SUVs on the market today, but very few of them manage to carry the kind of personality that the Dodge Durango does. Most family haulers play it safe — they are comfortable, capable, and utterly forgettable. The Durango has never been that kind of vehicle. It is loud in character, genuinely capable in performance, and unapologetically American in the way it goes about its business.

The Durango GT Plus 2023 sits in the middle of the Durango lineup, and it is arguably the trim that makes the most sense for the largest number of buyers. It threads the needle between everyday usability and driving excitement in a way that few midsize SUVs can honestly claim to do.

This review covers everything — the trim details, full specifications, powertrain performance, interior quality, technology features, safety ratings, real-world ownership impressions, and our honest conclusion on whether the GT Plus deserves your attention and your money.

Also Read: Best 2023 Volkswagen Atlas White: Photos, Specs & Review

Where the GT Plus Sits in the Durango Lineup

Before getting into the details, it is worth understanding how Dodge structures the Durango range for 2023 so that the GT Plus makes sense in context. The lineup runs from the entry-level SXT at the bottom, through the GT, GT Plus, Citadel, R/T, and then on up to the performance-focused Scatpack and the legendary SRT Hellcat at the very top.

The GT Plus is effectively the upper half of the GT family, offering everything the base GT provides plus a meaningful collection of additional features that make the upgrade worthwhile without requiring you to spend Citadel or R/T money.

The Durango GT Plus 2023 is positioned as a comfort and convenience upgrade rather than a performance step up.

The powertrain remains the same as the standard GT, but the GT Plus adds features like heated and ventilated front seats, a larger infotainment display, Durango Gt Plus 2023 a premium audio system, and additional safety technology that buyers at this price point reasonably expect to find standard. For families shopping in the $45,000 to $50,000 range, the GT Plus represents the point in the Durango lineup where the vehicle feels genuinely well-equipped without needing to pile on expensive options.

Exterior Styling and Road Presence

The Durango has been around in its current generation since 2011, and Dodge has kept it fresh through periodic updates rather than a full redesign. Love it or question it — the longevity of this platform is actually a point in its favor.

The bones are well-proven, the proportions are right, and the styling updates Dodge has applied over the years have kept the Durango looking relevant without erasing its identity.

In GT Plus trim, the exterior carries the standard Durango GT treatment with a few optional upgrades available. The front end features Dodge’s crosshair grille, which gives the Durango a face that is immediately recognizable and more aggressive than anything you will find on a Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot.

LED daytime running lights are standard, and the available 20-inch wheels on the GT Plus fill the wheel arches properly and give the vehicle a planted, muscular stance.

The Durango is available in a wide range of exterior colors for 2023, including Triple Nickel, Destroyer Gray, Pitch Black, Octane Red, White Knuckle, DB Black, Frostbite, and Granite Crystal Metallic. White Knuckle is a popular choice on the GT Plus for the same reasons white tends to work well on large, angular SUVs — it emphasizes the body lines and gives the vehicle a clean, confident look without trying too hard.

Dimensionally, the Durango is substantial. It measures 200.1 inches in length, 75.8 inches in width, and 70.9 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 119.8 inches. These numbers make it slightly longer and taller than the Volkswagen Atlas and put it on par with the Ford Explorer in overall footprint.

The body-on-frame feel from the exterior — the Durango is actually unibody, built on a platform shared with the Jeep Grand Cherokee — gives it a commanding presence on the road that buyers in this segment frequently comment on.

Also Read: Nissan Southwest Freeway: Best Deals, Inventory & Service

Interior Quality, Space, and Comfort

Open the door on the Durango GT Plus 2023 and the first impression is solidly positive. The cabin uses soft-touch materials across the dashboard and upper door panels, and the overall layout has a straightforward, functional organization that prioritizes ease of use over visual complexity.

It is not as minimalist as a modern BMW or Volvo interior, but it does not try to be. The Durango’s interior speaks the language of American pragmatism — everything has a button, every function is clearly labeled, and you never have to dig through six menu layers to change your climate settings.

The GT Plus adds heated and ventilated front seats over the base GT, which is a genuine quality-of-life upgrade for buyers in climates with hot summers or cold winters.

The heated second-row seats are also available as part of the package, which is a feature that rear passengers very much appreciate on cold mornings. Seating surfaces are covered in leather-faced upholstery that cleans easily and holds up well to family use.

Second-row space is excellent. Dodge configured the Durango with a wide, flat floor in the second row that makes the middle seat actually usable rather than a punishment. Three adults can sit across the second row without the shoulder-to-shoulder battle that Durango Gt Plus 2023 many competitors.

The second-row captain’s chairs are available as an option if you prefer the slightly more premium feel and the easier third-row access, though the bench is the better choice if you regularly need to seat seven.

The third row is where the Durango differentiates itself from most of the segment. On a Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade, the third row is genuinely adult-friendly. The same is true of the Durango — the third row offers more headroom and legroom than the segment average, and the fold-flat mechanism is easy to operate.

Cargo space behind the third row is a decent 17.2 cubic feet. Fold the third row and you get 43.3 cubic feet, while folding both rear rows gives you a substantial 84.5 cubic feet of total loading space. These figures are competitive, though the Chevrolet Traverse beats the Durango Gt Plus 2023 on raw cargo volume if that is your primary concern.

Also Read: 2023 Ram 2500 Laramie: Best Specs, Features & Price Guide

Infotainment, Technology, and Connectivity

The GT Plus upgrade over the base GT is most visible in the technology department. The GT Plus comes with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system on a 10.1-inch touchscreen, replacing the smaller 8.4-inch screen of the base GT. Uconnect 5 is genuinely one of the better infotainment systems in the mainstream market right now.

It responds quickly, the menus are logically organized, the text is large and easy to read while driving, and the system supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto without requiring you to fumble with a cable every time you get in the car.

The GT Plus also includes the Harman Kardon premium audio system with 19 speakers, which is a significant step up from the base audio configuration and genuinely impresses on highway trips where audio quality becomes more noticeable.

Voice recognition works reasonably well for climate and navigation commands, and the available 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster gives the interior a more modern feel than the analog gauges of lower trims.

Amazon Alexa integration is built into the Uconnect 5 system, allowing voice commands for things like weather checks, music playback, and smart home control if you are so inclined.

Wi-Fi hotspot capability is available through the available 4G LTE connection, which supports up to eight connected devices simultaneously — a feature that immediately earns appreciation from families with multiple children and tablets on road trips.

The available rear-seat entertainment system with dual 10-inch screens is a popular option on GT Plus vehicles headed to family duty. It supports Blu-ray, HDMI input, Durango Gt Plus 2023 and wireless headphones, which are features that turn long drives from endurance tests into manageable entertainment sessions for younger passengers.

2023 Durango GT Plus Specs

The Durango GT Plus 2023 is powered exclusively by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine has been a mainstay in the Chrysler/Dodge lineup for years and has earned a solid reputation for durability and smooth operation.

It produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which is genuinely competitive for a naturally aspirated V6 in this segment. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly in normal driving and responds well to manual override using the paddle shifters.

Rear-wheel drive is the standard configuration for the GT Plus, with the available Dodge’s acclaimed All-Wheel Drive system offered as a popular option.

Unlike some AWD systems that are tuned purely for on-road traction, the Durango Gt Plus 2023 AWD setup includes a terrain selector with dedicated modes for Snow, Sand, and Mud, which gives it a level of light off-road capability that most competitors in the segment cannot match.

Key specifications for the 2023 Durango GT Plus are as follows. The V6 engine delivers fuel economy figures of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway in RWD configuration, dropping to 18 city and 25 highway with AWD. Maximum towing capacity with the available Trailer Tow Group IV package is rated at 7,200 pounds for the V6, which is exceptional for a naturally aspirated six-cylinder and far exceeds what competitors like the Explorer or Highlander offer at a comparable price point.

Maximum payload is 1,375 pounds. Ground clearance is 8.1 inches in standard configuration. The curb weight of the GT Plus with RWD comes in at approximately 4,869 pounds, climbing to around 5,000 pounds in AWD configuration.

Standard tire size on the GT Plus is 265/50R20 on the 20-inch aluminum wheels that come with this trim. Brake hardware uses ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, sized appropriately for the vehicle’s weight class.

Also Read: Best Kia Sorento 2020 White: Photos, Specs & Features Guide

Performance and Driving Experience

Drive the Durango GT Plus 2023 and the first thing that strikes you is how different it feels from the Asian and European three-row SUVs in this price bracket.

The Durango is not trying to be a Telluride or a Palisade. It has a more assertive character, a louder exhaust note even from the V6, and a suspension tuning that leans toward Durango Gt Plus 2023 sporty rather than pillowy. That is a deliberate choice from Dodge, and it will either be exactly what you want or a reason to look elsewhere depending on your driving priorities.

The V6 provides genuinely adequate power for most situations. Zero to sixty comes in at around 7.5 seconds, which is not fast by any objective measure but feels reasonably brisk for a vehicle of this size and weight. The eight-speed transmission is well-matched to the engine and keeps it in the right power band for both highway passing and urban acceleration.

Where the V6 falls short is in the kinds of driving the Durango’s Durango Gt Plus 2023 platform seems to invite — hard acceleration from a rolling start, loaded highway climbing, and spirited back-road driving all expose the limits of the six-cylinder. If you buy a Durango and find yourself wishing for more power regularly, the R/T with its 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is the natural upgrade path.

Handling for an SUV of this size is composed and confidence-inspiring. The steering is well-weighted without being artificially heavy, and the body roll through corners is controlled by a suspension setup that clearly prioritizes handling balance alongside ride comfort.

The Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer under acceleration, which makes a noticeable difference on winding roads. Ride quality on smooth highways is excellent, while broken urban pavement introduces more firmness than the average family SUV buyer might prefer.

Towing performance with the optional trailer package is one of the GT Plus’s most compelling attributes.

At 7,200 pounds of rated capacity from a V6, the Durango can pull a mid-size boat, a horse trailer, or a substantial travel trailer without the drama that comes from asking a smaller powertrain to work beyond its limits. Trailer Sway Control and an integrated trailer brake controller on properly equipped models add a layer of confidence that tow-focused buyers will appreciate.

Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance Technology

Safety is an area where the Durango has historically been good but not the class leader. The 2023 model earned five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with five-star ratings in side crash testing and four stars in frontal crash performance.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Durango as a Top Safety Pick in most categories, with the headlight performance on upper trims receiving a Good rating — the highest available — which is a meaningful improvement over earlier model years.

The GT Plus includes a comprehensive suite of active safety technology as standard or available equipment. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is standard across the lineup. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are included on the GT Plus and represent two of the most practically useful safety aids for family SUV buyers who regularly navigate parking lots, school pickup lines, and highway lane changes.

Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability is available as part of the SafetyTec Group package and works well in highway driving.

Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist are available but operate in a more advisory mode than the lane-centering systems of some competitors. Parking sensors front and rear, combined with the available 360-degree surround-view camera system, make parking this large SUV significantly less stressful than its dimensions might suggest. Rear occupant alert is standard and reminds drivers to check the back seat before exiting, which is a simple but genuinely important feature for families with young children.

Also Read: Best 2018 Acura RDX Advance: Specs, Features & Review

Reliability and Long-Term Ownership Considerations

The Durango has a mixed reliability history that prospective buyers should approach honestly. J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability studies have placed the Durango at or near the segment average in recent years, and the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is a proven, durable powerplant with a long track record in the Chrysler fleet.

However, Dodge’s broader brand reputation for reliability trails Toyota and Honda, and some owners have reported infotainment glitches, minor electrical issues, and transmission software concerns that required dealer visits.

The good news is that most of these issues are addressable through software updates, and Dodge has been reasonably responsive to widespread complaints through over-the-air updates and technical service bulletins.

The fundamental mechanical hardware of the Durango — engine, transmission, drivetrain, and brakes — tends to hold up well when maintained according to the service schedule. Oil change intervals are every 6,000 to 8,000 miles depending on driving conditions, and Dodge recommends transmission fluid changes at 60,000-mile intervals for normal use.

Ownership costs for the GT Plus are in line with the segment. Insurance premiums are moderate given the vehicle’s size and performance potential, and parts availability is excellent given the volume of Durangos on the road and the shared components with other Dodge and Jeep products.

Resale value has historically been reasonable for the Durango, though it does not hold value as strongly as the Telluride or Highlander at three to five years of age.

Also Read: Best 2019 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium Interior: Full Review

How the Durango GT Plus Compares to Key Rivals

Shopping for a three-row midsize SUV in 2023 means navigating a genuinely competitive field. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade lead the segment in overall refinement, interior quality, and reliability perception.

The Ford Explorer offers a turbocharged four-cylinder option that is more fuel-efficient than the Durango’s V6 while providing comparable power. The Toyota Highlander brings class-leading reliability data and a hybrid option that improves fuel economy significantly. The Chevrolet Traverse maximizes interior volume and value per dollar.

Against all of these, the Durango GT Plus 2023 distinguishes itself primarily in three areas. First, its towing capacity of 7,200 pounds with the V6 is simply in a different league from what competitors offer at this price point the Explorer maxes out at 5,600 pounds and the Telluride at 5,000 pounds. Second, the Durango’s driving character is distinctly more engaging and spirited than any of these alternatives.

which matters for buyers who enjoy the act of driving beyond the functional requirements of school runs and grocery trips. Third, the available V8 upgrade path through the R/T and Scatpack trims gives the Durango lineup a performance ceiling that no rival can approach.

Where the Durango loses ground is in fuel economy — a 19/26 MPG rating in an era of $4 gasoline is a genuine operational cost disadvantage compared to the 22/29 of an Explorer or the hybrid Highlander’s figures. Cargo space also falls behind the Traverse. And if maximum interior serenity and ride comfort are your priorities, the Palisade is a more polished choice.

Who Should Buy the Durango GT Plus 2023?

The Durango GT Plus 2023 is the right vehicle for a specific kind of buyer, and being honest about that makes the recommendation cleaner and more useful.

This is an SUV for people who genuinely value driving enjoyment alongside family practicality, who need real towing capability, and who appreciate American muscle car DNA filtered through the practical requirements of hauling a family of seven.

It is an excellent choice for buyers who tow a boat, a camper, or horse trailers regularly, as no competitor in this price range comes close to the Durango’s V6 towing rating. It is also a compelling choice for families who want a capable, spacious three-row SUV but find the Korean and Japanese alternatives a bit too sensible for their taste.

The Durango has personality, and that is not a trivial thing when you are spending this much money on a vehicle you will drive every day for the next five to eight years.

It is probably not the right choice for buyers who prioritize fuel economy, maximum reliability statistics, or a hushed, serene interior experience above all else. Those buyers would be better served by a Telluride, Palisade, or Highlander.

My Final Thoughts:

The Durango GT Plus 2023 is a well-rounded, properly equipped family SUV that earns its place in a competitive segment by doing several things better than anyone else at the price point and by refusing to be boring about any of it.

The GT Plus trim specifically hits a sweet spot in the lineup where the features feel complete, the price is justifiable, and the driving experience rewards the buyer rather than simply transporting them.

The 293-horsepower V6, genuine seven-passenger capability, 7,200-pound towing rating, upgraded Uconnect 5 infotainment, premium audio, and ventilated front seats combine to create a package that is difficult to argue against if the Durango’s character resonates with you.

Add AWD for peace of mind through winter months and the optional trailer package if towing is on your agenda, and you have a vehicle that genuinely earns its keep across a wide range of real-world use cases.

Approach it with clear eyes about fuel costs and the importance of staying on top of routine maintenance, choose a dealership with a strong service reputation, and the 2023 Durango GT Plus is a purchase you are unlikely to regret. In a segment full of competent but forgettable options, driving something this characterful is a daily reminder that you made a choice rather than just checking a box.

FAQs

M Ahmad Ansari

I’m M Ahmad Ansari, a Lexus enthusiast with 5+ years of hands-on experience across the entire lineup—from the RC F’s roaring V8 to the whisper-quiet RZ electric. I understand what separates Japanese luxury from the rest: obsessive engineering, unmatched reliability, and that refined driving feel you can’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s F Sport performance packages, hybrid technology, or choosing between new and certified models, I bring real-world knowledge and genuine passion for what makes Lexus exceptional.