Morgan Hill Dodge - Towing Confidence and Family Tech on the 2026 Dodge Durango for Pacific Grove, CA Adventures
If your weekends tend to involve scenic highways, a long list of family gear, and a trailer in the mirror, the 2026 Dodge Durango has the right foundation for confident travel. With standard V8 power, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a rear-wheel-drive platform with available all-wheel drive, it’s engineered to balance control and comfort over long distances. The max towing rating of up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped gives you room to grow into a larger camper or boat, while the 10.1-inch Uconnect touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeps navigation and entertainment beautifully organized. Inside, available captain’s chairs in the second row create a comfortable pass-through to the third row, and available premium audio from Alpine or Harman/Kardon fills the cabin with immersive sound. It all adds up to an SUV that makes family trips around Pacific Grove, coastal detours, and mountain routes feel easier and more enjoyable.
What sets Durango apart for towing is how seamlessly the powertrain and chassis cooperate under load. The 5.7L HEMI® V8 delivers strong torque off the line, helping you roll confidently from ramps and busy intersections, while the available 6.4L 392 V8 raises the ceiling for heavier trailers. The 8-speed automatic avoids harsh shifts, the steering remains steady and predictable, and available load-leveling rear suspension helps the SUV stay composed with a trailer attached. When the trailer is off, Durango returns to its family-first role—quiet ride, spacious seating for up to seven, and a straightforward infotainment system that’s easy for drivers to learn and for passengers to enjoy. From beach days to cabin trips, the formula is simple: real capability supported by practical tech and comfort. At Morgan Hill Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, our team helps drivers choose the right towing and tech configurations for daily commutes and extended getaways, serving Monterey, Carmel Valley, and Pacific Grove with expert guidance and a friendly, low-pressure approach.
- Max Towing Goal: Decide the heaviest trailer you plan to tow and build in headroom so you’re not at the limit every trip.
- Hitch and Wiring: Confirm the proper hitch rating and wiring harness for your trailer’s lighting and brake needs.
- Load Distribution: Use a weight-distributing setup if your trailer requires it to help maintain level ride height and stable steering.
- Tire and Brake Prep: Verify tire pressures and trailer brake function before every long drive for optimal safety and control.
- Cargo Strategy: Balance cargo between the SUV and trailer, keeping heavy items low and forward to support stable handling.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I choose between the 5.7L V8 and the 6.4L 392 V8?
Consider your towing weight and how often you’ll be hauling. The 5.7L V8 suits frequent family trips and moderate trailers, while the 392 V8 offers stronger acceleration and more headroom for heavier loads or high-elevation routes.
Is all-wheel drive worth it for Pacific Grove’s coastal climate?
All-wheel drive can add confidence on wet roads, boat ramps, and dirt pullouts. If your routine includes rain, launch ramps, or weekend trailheads, the added traction is a smart choice.
Can the Durango fit our family and luggage for a weeklong trip?
Yes. With seating for up to seven and a cargo area that expands when you fold the third row, Durango adapts well. Pack larger suitcases in the second-row footwell when the third row is up, or fold rows to create a flat load floor for bigger hauls.
What tech matters most for long drives?
The 10.1-inch Uconnect screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto simplifies navigation, playlists, and calls. Add available premium audio if you value high-fidelity sound, and consider driver-assist features for extra peace of mind on the highway.
Will the Durango feel stable when towing at freeway speeds?
Its rear-wheel-drive platform, available all-wheel drive, and available load-leveling rear suspension support calm, predictable behavior under load. Proper hitch setup, balanced cargo, and routine checks will help maintain stability at speed.