The 2016 Durango remains a benchmark in the three-row SUV segment, and the 2017 Durango interior builds directly on that legacy, offering a blend of comfort, capability, and refined technology that targets families and drivers seeking premium utility. While the exterior design communicates a commanding road presence, the cabin is where the vehicle truly delivers on its promise of daily usability and long-haul comfort.
Design and Layout
Walking into a 2017 Durango interior reveals a design language that was progressive for its time and ages well compared to subsequent models. The dashboard features clean lines and a symmetrical layout that prioritizes driver focus, with a large central touchscreen rising prominently from the center stack. The physical buttons for critical functions like the parking brake and drive modes are placed deliberately within thumb reach, ensuring that the driver’s eyes can remain on the road while still providing tactile feedback for essential actions.
Cabin Materials and Construction
One of the strongest points of the 2017 model year is the thoughtful use of materials throughout the cabin. Soft-touch plastics are used generously on the upper dashboard and door panels, providing a tactile quality that feels more upscale than the standard synthetic finishes found in many competitors. Premium leather upholstery is available and ages gracefully, resisting wear while contributing to a quieter, more refined acoustic environment inside the vehicle.
Technology and Infotainment
The Uconnect interface in the 2017 Durango represents a high point for Chrysler’s in-car technology, featuring a responsive 8.4-inch touchscreen that feels modern even by today’s standards. The graphics are sharp, the menus are logically organized, and the integration with smartphone platforms like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures that the digital ecosystem extends far beyond the factory settings. Navigation is precise, and the inclusion of SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility adds significant value for long-distance travelers.
Driver Assistance and Connectivity
Safety and convenience features are woven into the 2017 Durango interior without overwhelming the driver with unnecessary complexity. Adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring are available on higher trims and function seamlessly to reduce driver fatigue during highway commutes. The rearview camera provides a clear image with dynamic grid lines, and when paired with the available trailer sway control, it makes towing a trailer or boat significantly less intimidating.
Seating and Comfort
With its standard third row, the 2017 Durango distinguishes itself as a practical choice for larger households. The second-row captain’s chairs offer ample lateral support and can slide forward to provide easier access to the third row without requiring the front seats to be moved out of position. Third-row seating is surprisingly comfortable for adults on short to medium-length trips, a rarity in vehicles of this class that often sacrifice rear passenger comfort for cargo space.
The power-adjustable front seats are a highlight, featuring multi-way drivers’ seats with memory functions on higher trims. Heated front and optional heated rear seats are particularly valuable during colder months, warming up quickly and maintaining a consistent temperature. The overall suspension tuning prioritizes a smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively while still providing enough body control to keep the vehicle feeling planted during aggressive cornering.
