Aging Dodge Durango Posts Its Best First-Half Sales in 20 Years

The third-generation Dodge Durango, now 15 years old, just recorded its strongest first-half sales performance in two decades. Stellantis moved 38,575 units of the big, V8-powered SUV between January and June 2026, marking the highest six-month tally since 2006. That’s a remarkable run for a model that many industry watchers had written off as past its prime.

The news comes from a roundup of automotive headlines, where the Durango’s sales surge stood out against a backdrop of other industry developments. A Senate panel is expected to vote today on a proposed ban on Chinese car imports, sponsored by Republican Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio and Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan.

Meanwhile, Nissan introduced a Nismo version of the Leaf in Japan, featuring better tires, improved suspension, and lighter wheels, though power remains at 214 horsepower. North America is expected to get this model.

Other highlights include the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas, which will start at $43,135 with shipping, a $2,350 increase over the outgoing model. Hyundai is recalling fewer than 48,000 Kona SUVs due to a rear-center seatbelt defect, advising owners not to use that seat until repairs are complete.

And Aston Martin is celebrating the Vanquish’s 25th anniversary with a special Vanquish 25 edition, limited to 50 units, 25 coupes and 25 convertibles, all powered by the twin-turbo V12.