Durango Diaries: Road Tripping with 710 Horsepower
About this episode
A lively discussion unfolds as the hosts welcome automotive journalist Jack Nerad, who shares insights from his recent road trip across America in a Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat. With 710 horsepower, the SUV proved to be both powerful and surprisingly comfortable for long drives. The conversation touches on the vehicle's performance, gas mileage, and the merits of V8 engines. Additionally, the hosts delve into car cleaning tips and what different car colors say about their owners, making for an engaging mix of automotive advice and personal anecdotes.
Jack Nerad takes us on a thrilling ride through America's heartland in a monstrous 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat. This wasn't just any road trip – it was the "Made in America Tour" meticulously planned by Jack's wife, combining their love of baseball with an exploration of America's cultural landmarks. From Chicago to Milwaukee, through Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and back, they visited major league ballparks, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Greenfield Village.
What surprised Jack most was how the beast beneath the hood became a gentle giant on the highway. Despite having enough power to launch this three-row SUV from 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds, the Durango proved remarkably docile and comfortable, even during 500-mile days. The vehicle's sophisticated electronic aids and all-wheel drive system made handling effortless, while still returning a respectable 16 miles per gallon – impressive efficiency for something with supercar-level horsepower.
The conversation shifts to exciting news about Dodge's commitment to V8 power, with all future Durangos (from 2026) dropping V6 options entirely. This sparked a passionate discussion about the reliability and driving experience of naturally aspirated V8 engines compared to the increasingly common turbocharged four-cylinders many manufacturers have adopted. Jack notes that while many companies chase fuel efficiency through complex engineering, there's something to be said for sticking with proven technology that provides both performance and longevity. His own 25-year-old Chevy Tahoe with its trusty V8 still runs flawlessly – a testament to the durability of these powerplants.
Follow Jack's complete Made in America Tour through daily video updates on the America on the Road YouTube channel, where you can experience this remarkable journey through America's automotive and cultural landscape.
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