Fiat Chrysler calls 2019 Durango a 3-row SUV Dodge Charger

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles took the wraps off the 2019 Dodge Durango lineup Thursday.

Calling the Durango a "no-compromise" SUV, FCA touted the vehicle's five distinct models — SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T and SRT.

The power output on Durango models ranges from the 295-horsepower SXT to the 475-horsepower SRT.

Whether the model updates will be enough to reverse a sales slide for the Durango remains to be seen. Through June compared with the same period in 2017, Durango sales in the U.S. were down by 11 percent to 32,722 vehicles.

Steve Beahm, head of passenger cars for FCA North America, said the 2019 Durango lineup reflects consumer demand.

“The Durango is our three-row Charger of the SUV segment, delivering uncompromised utility, advanced technology, class-leading towing and driving range, confident driving dynamics and aggressive styling,” Beahm said in a news release.

“Customer demand for utility vehicles in the United States has exploded over the past decade, and with America’s fastest, most powerful and most capable three-row SUVs in our garage and the new updates for the 2019 model year, Dodge Durango continues to separate itself from the competition with the performance and capability that our customers demand.”

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FCA touted an expansion of the performance front fascia and LED fog lamps seen on the Hemi V8-powered SRT and R/T models to the mid-level GT, which has a Pentastar V6. Those who want their GT to show even more of the high-power look can opt for the "SRT-inspired performance hood with center air inlet duct and two heat extractors." 

In addition to the changes for GT models, Citadel models will have standard second-row captain's chairs and an available 825-watt, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. A new integrated trailer brake will be included on models with the optional trailer tow package, the release said.

Several exterior color choices also debut for the 2019 lineup — F8 Green, Destroyer Grey and Reactor Blue. The updated Durango has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $29,995, excluding destination charge, FCA said.

Dealers can place 2019 Durango orders now for delivery in the fall, according to the company.

Contact Eric D. Lawrence: elawrence@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter: @_ericdlawrence.