In the SUV-Crazed-Bigger-Is-Better U.S., we find a financial commentator gushing over the latest planet despoiling Dodge.

2004 Dodge Durango

FEATURES:[?? ed.]

• - Compared to the old Durango, this new one is 5 inches wider, 7 inches longer and about 400 pounds heavier. Curb weight is about 5,464 pounds, and the Durango is roughly the size of a Tahoe.[I think that's Lake Tahoe. ed.]



• - 5.7-liter eight-cylinder engine cranks out 330 horses, and combined with a winning five-speed automatic, hustles this rather heavy truck down the road with gusto.



• - The suspension is a winner; the truck is tight and solid, and right at home hustling over winter-ravaged back roads.



• - While we think the hemi is the only engine to order here, be sure you are ready for the gas mileage it will rack up, especially if you feel it needs to be exercised periodically. The EPA rates it at 14 to 19 miles per gallon. We averaged about 13. [I think it's genius to have the writer tout the engine with the worst fuel mileage -- the Manhattanintes buying this truck sure need all the power they can get. Dirtbag. ed.]



• - Handling was better than expected, but the steering was too light, and over the shoulder visibility was hampered on both sides by the Durango's thick B pillars. The feeling was always that you were driving a big, heavy vehicle.[The feeling was always that you were driving a big, heavy vehicle? This thing's bigger than some New England states. ed.]



• - Our two-wheel drive SLT test vehicle listed for $34,855, and we think it's worth a test drive if you are SUV-shopping.

It's utter nonsense like this that makes me cringe to be an American. Thoughtless, environmentally unconcious people espousing the purchase and use of the most resource depleting beasts to roll out of Detroit in decades.

I have a lot more to say, but this is family friendly site for the most part.

No, thanks. I'll keep my 40+ mpg Toyota Tercel.