Chrysler revealed its new 2014 edition of its Dodge Durango SUV, which the automaker said offers a range of new features, from a more fuel-efficient transmission to up to 50 different seating configurations.

The automaker also said the vehicle features new LED lighting technology, best-in-class towing, and a number of new technologies that enhance safety and comfort. The 2014 Durango comes in five models, SXT, Rallye, Limited, Citadel, and R/T.

Note: You can click any of the photos in this article to see additional images of the Durango's exterior and interior.

Performance

For the 2014 model-year, the Durango features an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission, which the automaker said improves fuel economy by up to 9%, plus provides smoother shifts and enhanced performance. The Durango features a rotary shifter and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters as standard equipment on all 2014 Durango models.

Under the hood, the Durango comes equipped with Dodge’s 3.6L Pentastar V-6 as standard. For 2014, the Durango features a new Eco Mode, which automatically engages when the driver starts the vehicle. The driver can disengage this mode via a button on the center stack. The Eco Mode automatically manages interactive deceleration fuel shut-off (IDFSO), which cuts fuel delivery to the engine when the vehicle is coasting. This feature combines with Fuel Saver technology in Durango models equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V-8.

For handling and suspension, the 2014 Durango features unibody construction where the suspension is integrated with the body, reducing flex and weight and improving driving dynamics, the automaker said. The short/long arm front suspension and isolated multi-link rear suspension features isolated front and rear cradles for more precise handling and comfort.

The Durango comes standard with rear-wheel drive but all-wheel-drive is available. There are two AWD systems available, one for HEMI V-8-powered models and another for V-6 models. The HEMI AWD system features a low-range transfer case with a neutral position for improving light off-road performance and making maneuvering easier.

For towing, Durango models equipped with the V-6 can tow up to 6,200 lbs. and models with the 5.7L V-8 can tow up to 7,400 lbs.

Exterior

On the outside Chrysler made a number of changes to the Durango’s exterior appearance. The automaker gave the new Durango a slimmer split-crosshair grille design and redesigned projector-beam headlamps with a raised front bumper. The new headlamps, with LED daytime running lamps, are on the Rallye, Limited, RT, and Citadel models of the Durango. Chrysler said it sculpted the hood and grille to give the Durango a forward-leaning profile. Bi-xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps are standard on the R/T and Citadel models, and auto-leveling technology adjusts the headlight beam angle as vehicle elevation changes.

The 2014 Durango rides on either 18- or 20-inch aluminum wheels, available for each trim level, and have finishes including silver, painted to polished aluminum, to Hyper Black, with seven wheel designs to choose from.

In the back, the Durango has an LED racetrack tail lamp design inspired by the Charger and all-new Dart. The automaker said it changed the rear fascia so it now fully integrates the trailer hitch. 3.5-inch dual exhaust tips are standard on Durango models equipped with the V-8, and V-6-powered models get a 3-inch single tip.

Interior

The 2014 Durango seats seven and second-row captain’s chairs are available on all models. The captain’s chairs provides pass through room to the back row. The available second-row console comes with a dual-hinged door/armrest that has as hard surface when flipped forward. It also has USB ports for charging electronic devices. On models without the ventilated seat option, a fold-flat passenger seat is standard.

For the second-row seat, a 60/40 split folding row can fold and tumble, allowing for more room to transport various items. The second-row seats are also available with heat and they can recline up to 18 degrees.

The third-row seat has a 50/50 split and can fold down by accessing them from the back of the vehicle. The second- and third-row seats can fold down to provide a flat load floor. Also, a switch in the instrument panel can allows occupants to remotely lower the third-row headrests when they’re not in use.

Technology

When it comes to infotainment, the 2014 Durango offers two touchscreen options and Chrysler’s UConnect Access Via Mobile technology.

UConnect Access provides emergency or roadside assistance via a single button. The system also sends a text message (SMS) when the vehicle’s alarm goes off and up to five people can receive this notification. Next UConnect provides various apps that are accessible via voice control.

For controlling various vehicle functions, UConnect Access allows the driver to control climate, audio, and Bluetooth by voice. Also, the system can receive and announce text messages, identify a sender, and read a message aloud.

Other features on the Durango include a navigation system with 3D maps, the ability to use the Durango as a Wi-Fi hotspot, a Bing-powered search engine (which can be activated via voice) to find a destination. UConnect can navigate to the destination and store its telephone number for hands-free calling (if the phone number is available).

For the two touchscreen options, a new 5-inch touchscreen is standard on SXT models and the 8.4-inch UConnect touchscreen is standard on Limited, R/T, and Citadel models. For the instrument panel, a 7-inch configurable display is standard on all models. A Blu-ray video rear entertainment system is also an option.

Safety

The Durango features a number of safety features, including standard all-speed traction control and electronic stability control. New safety features available on the 2014 Durango include forward collision warning with crash mitigation, adaptive cruise control with stop, and Uconnect Acccess, which provides roadside assistance and dials 9-1-1. Other safety features on the Durango include a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross path detection, which make drivers aware of vehicles in their blind spots and moving behind the vehicle, respectively.

For air bags, the Durango comes with seven standard air bags, including standard front-row active head restraints, standard full-length three-row side-curtain air bags, and standard front-seat-mounted side thorax air bags.