While the Durango sits on an aging platform, there’s no denying the mid-size three-row crossover continues to scratch an itch for performance mid-size SUV enthusiasts.

The 2022 model features the same styling updates introduced a year previous like the Charger Widebody-inspired slimmed-down LED head and foglamps and black mesh grille, a more muscular hood and fresh rear window spoiler. The available dual-centre exterior racing stripes are a nice racy touch, and the black looked great against the Octane Red paint colour on the SRT 392 press review vehicle.

On the inside, the cockpit is influenced by another muscle car stablemate. Similar to the Challenger, the large 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment display is angled seven degrees towards the driver for better ergonomics. The leather seating is luxury-car-level soft, and it’s nice Dodge decided to go with a traditional-looking shifter even though the eight-speed automatic transmission is now fully electronic.

There’s not too much to nitpick about the interior other than a somewhat tinny-sounding Harmon Kardon stereo, and a hazard light switch relocated from high above on the centre stack down to the near the console area making it easy to accidentally tap when plugging in a mobile device.

Nothing quite beats that feel of tire-burning acceleration and throaty roar of the iconic 392-cubic-inch (6.4-litre) HEMI V-8 engine — not even EVs and their silent monstrous torque. The 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque is plenty to get into some trouble, and when properly equipped the SUV can tow up to 8,700 pounds. Fuel Save Technology deactivates four of the cylinders in low-load scenarios to (slightly) increase efficiency. Testing the Durango mostly around town, I was averaging 23.7 L/100 km.

Configurable drive modes allow users to tailor vehicle dynamics to different environments by tapping on the screen. The Snow mode, which alters throttle output, all-wheel drive behaviour and other settings, made the beast manageable to operate even on frosty late-winter roads, when coupled with a set of winter tires.

New standard driver assistance features for 2022 include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, Advanced Brake Assist, and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist. Prices start at $76,256.