Keep an eye out, because Stellantis is on the road to recovery. Following a couple of challenging years, the company has just announced a noteworthy increase in Q1, achieving over 305,000 car sales in the first quarter of 2026. This marks a modest 4% rise compared to Q1 2025, and while the company has a long journey ahead to regain its momentum, it’s certainly an improvement over the previous dismal period. This is the same manufacturer that recorded more than 330,000 units sold in the same timeframe in 2024; and if we look back to 2022, that figure was 405,000.
However, let’s shift our attention from the negatives. Let’s explore the unusual and intriguing. Stellantis has often been a source of fascinating “zombie car” tales—where a model long considered defunct is rediscovered in a dealership’s warehouses—and indeed, there are still a few last-generation Dodge Challengers and Jeep Renegades reflected in the Q1 sales data. Yet what truly caught our attention this time wasn’t the undead vehicles, but the seemingly-resurrected: the Dodge Durango.
Honestly, Dodge has threatened to phase out this seemingly unstoppable SUV what seemed like a countless number of times (though it was likely far less) and yet, here we are in 2026, and not only can you still purchase this 15-year-old SUV new, but Dodge is actively broadening the three-row’s lineup. The 6.4-liter engine is back, the Hemi has been made (almost) standard, and the Hellcat is roaring back to life. Moreover, since the Durango is long since paid for and made right here in the United States (in Michigan, to be specific, rendering it essentially tariff-proof), Dodge can maintain a competitively low price point. And it’s paying off. Check out the chart below.
Examining strictly the percentages, the Durango’s Q1 figures aren’t particularly remarkable. The Charger experienced a more significant increase in Q1 on a volume basis (up 59%), but with just under 1,700 units sold, it lacks a compelling numbers narrative. The Durango’s 48% increase translated to a rise of 6,600 units. Yet, momentarily set aside the ups and downs and note Dodge’s overall volume for Q1: 22,693 vehicles. This indicates that nine out of ten Dodge customers left the dealership with a Durango this past quarter.
The actual showroom breakdown might not be as extreme, as we anticipate that a significant portion of those Durango sales were directed to fleets, for whom Dodge initially preserved the Pentastar V6. They have since reversed that decision, making the more affordable V6 available to the general public. And the public seems to be responding positively. The Durango enjoyed its strongest Q1 since 2021, when Dodge sold 20,560 of them. The Charger and Challenger collectively surpassed 34,000 units during the same three-month span.
Don’t misunderstand us; the Durango certainly has its advantages. Like the Grand Cherokee, it serves as an excellent towing vehicle, especially when equipped with a robust engine (as that typically includes larger brakes). However, Dodge is in dire need of a genuine high-volume SUV; this aging midsize model can’t sustain the brand indefinitely with its (undeniably solid) presence.
Have a news lead? Reach out to us at [email protected]!
### Dodge Dealers Primarily Concentrate on Selling Durangos
Dodge dealers have established a unique presence in the automotive sector, particularly with the Dodge Durango, a mid-size SUV that has attracted considerable attention since its launch. The Durango is notable for its blend of performance, spaciousness, and cutting-edge technology, positioning it at the center of many Dodge showrooms.
#### Overview of the Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango is recognized for its sturdy construction and powerful engine alternatives, including V6 and V8 options. This flexibility enables it to appeal to a broad customer base, from families in need of generous passenger space to performance aficionados seeking exhilarating driving experiences. Its towing capacity is an additional strong selling feature, making it well-suited for outdoor pursuits and hauling needs.
#### Key Features
1. **Performance**: The Durango delivers impressive performance with its available HEMI V8 engine, providing significant horsepower and torque. This makes it one of the most potent choices in its segment.
2. **Interior Space**: Featuring three rows of seating, the Durango accommodates up to seven passengers. The interior is crafted for comfort, outfitted with high-quality materials and state-of-the-art technology, including an easy-to-use infotainment system.
3. **Safety**: Dodge emphasizes safety in the Durango, incorporating an array of advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
4. **Customization Options**: The Durango comes in various trims, enabling customers to select features that best meet their desires, ranging from luxury enhancements to performance modifications.
#### Market Position
Dodge dealers prioritize the sale of the Durango due to its competitive standing in the SUV market. The vehicle attracts a varied audience, including families, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a dependable automobile with a sporty flair. The Durango’s reputation for durability and performance reinforces its appeal.
#### Sales Strategies
Dodge dealers utilize several sales strategies to market the Durango:
– **Test Drive Events**: Hosting events that allow potential buyers to experience the Durango’s capabilities firsthand.
– **Promotional Offers**: Offering incentives such as financing packages, trade-in benefits, and seasonal promotions to entice buyers.
– **Customer Education**: Providing in-depth information regarding the Durango’s features and advantages through brochures, online resources, and well-informed sales personnel.
#### Conclusion
The Dodge Durango remains a fundamental aspect of Dodge dealerships, thanks to its combination of performance, adaptability, and safety. As consumer preferences increasingly gravitate towards SUVs, the Durango’s strong market visibility and the targeted efforts of Dodge dealers ensure its ongoing success in the car industry.