The 2001 Dodge Durango did not leave the factory with a 5.9 Magnum V-8. The typical engine options for that model year were the 5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cubic inches) and, in some trims or markets, the 4.7L PowerTech V8. The 5.9L Magnum (360 cubic inches) was not listed as a factory option for the 2001 Durango in the United States.
To understand how the Durango’s engine lineup was configured that year, this article reviews the official options, explains where the 5.9 Magnum fits in the broader Chrysler/Mopar engine family, and shows how to verify an individual vehicle’s actual engine.
Engine options for the 2001 Dodge Durango
The following engines were available for the 2001 Durango, indicating what was or wasn't offered with factory documentation.
- 5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cu in) — a common engine option across several trims.
- 4.7L PowerTech V8 — another V8 option that appeared in various trims and market configurations.
Conclusion: The 5.9L Magnum was not a factory option for the 2001 Durango in the U.S. market. If a 2001 Durango is labeled as having a 5.9 engine, it is more likely to be a non-original swap, a misidentification, or a model from a different year or market.
How to verify your Durango’s engine
To confirm the actual engine in a specific Durango, use these verification steps.
- Check the engine stamping on the block for the engine code and displacement. This can indicate whether the engine is a 5.2L or 4.7L, among others.
- Consult the vehicle’s VIN and build sheet or the window sticker, which list the factory engine option tied to that VIN.
- Compare the visual cues and measurements of the engine bay with reference materials for the 5.2L and 4.7L Mopar engines to help confirm the correct displacement.
Note: If you’re assessing a used Durango, obtaining a dealership window sticker or a copy of the original build sheet can provide definitive proof of the factory engine.
Summary
In short, the 2001 Dodge Durango did not come from the factory with a 5.9 Magnum V-8 in the United States. The standard engine options were the 5.2L Magnum V8 and, in some configurations, the 4.7L PowerTech V8. Engine swaps or mislabeling can occur, so verifying with the VIN/build sheet is the best way to confirm the exact engine in any given vehicle.
Was the 5.9 Magnum a good engine?
The all iron 5.9 Magnum proved to be a strong little combination, despite its production short-block. We tagged the 400 hp mark at 5,600 rpm, and watched the engine pull cleanly and make power to over 6,000 rpm. EngineQuest heads are sold by the manufacturer as bare castings.
How much horsepower does a 2001 Dodge Durango 5.9 have?
Durango comes only with V-8 engines. A 235-horsepower 4.7-liter V-8 is the base engine and teams with a five-speed automatic transmission. A 5.9-liter V-8 with 250 hp is the top engine choice and comes with a four-speed automatic. Durango comes with rear-wheel drive or a choice of two four-wheel-drive systems.
What year to stay away from Dodge Durango?
The Dodge Durango years to stay away from include:
- 1999.
- 2000.
- 2004.
- 2005.
- 2011.
- 2012.
Is the 2001 5.9 Magnum a good engine?
Even though the Dodge 5.9-liter Magnum had its shortcomings, it is a good engine that offers excellent power and low-end torque from a small V8. If you find you need to replace your engine, Powertrain Products offers the following 5.9-liter Magnum V8s: 1993 – 2001 Dodge 360/5.9-liter V8.