Chrysler's twin SUVs go hybrid

Exterior

Unlike GM's full-size hybrid SUVs, which sport additional body cladding to enhance aerodynamics, the Durango hybrid doesn't look noticeably different from a regular Durango, Chrysler says.

Wheelbase and width remain identical, but length is up 1.3 inches. Minimum ground clearance is down 0.9 inches, despite a load floor that's closer to that of the regular Durango. Chrysler says the loss in ground clearance is due to extra electrical infrastructure in the hybrid chassis.

Eighteen-inch chrome wheels are standard. Unlike GM's hybrid SUVs, the Durango Hybrid's flanks don't trumpet their credentials for all to see. Hybrid badges appear near the front fenders and above the rear bumper, but they're comparatively humble.

Interior

Inside, the Durango Hybrid looks much like its regular counterpart.

The three-row cabin seats up to eight, and passenger volumes are more or less equivalent to those in the regular Durango. Passenger volume in the first and second rows remains equivalent to that of the regular Durango, with third-row volume down by just 0.4 cubic feet, or less than 1 percent; Chrysler says that's due to the battery pack, which sits underneath the rear load floor.

Standard features include leather upholstery and heated power front seats.

Hybrid-specific implements include a screen on the navigation system that shows real-time power flow between the drive train components - the battery, brakes, and engine.

Like many other hybrids, the Durango Hybrid has a charge-assist gauge whose dial swings to the left when the regenerative brakes are charging the battery and to the right when the electric motors and gasoline engine are working together to maximize acceleration. In between them is a green zone labeled "economy," which is similar to a gauge that promotes fuel-efficient driving in the Tahoe Hybrid.

Under the hood