Name: Laila Taha
Nationality: Philippines & Egypt
Occupation: Officer – Pilot Ground Training Support, Etihad Airways
Vehicle: Dodge Durango, Limited, 2005


Tell us the background story of your car?
The Durango was a natural choice after the first one drowned in Wadi Showqa, I got used to the Durango because it had the power and the space that I needed. This was actually intended for road use only but after a few offroad trips, I decided to modify it for my off-roading activities.

What Modifications have been made, performance wise and cosmetic wise?
Engine wise: It’s not permitted by the law, so nothing at all, Magnum/Hemi V8, 5.7 delivers a decent 330BHP however, I have made some performance modifications though:
I got custom built aluminum skid plate with radiator enforcements and two extra heavy duty radiator fans; about 3” lift through the torsion key with Rancho Heavy Duty shocks and springs in the rear. Borla exhaust, mounted air compressor, Best Line tube bumpers and side steps, winch and then the lights of course.
Cosmetic wise, I have done a matte black paint job with red accents. I am not sure if I will consider the XD rims and Cooper Tyres as cosmetics because they are more performance products.
Every modification has a purpose to serve!


Do you have something that you could consider it as a special feature of the car?
It is a Dodge Durango but it performs and looks like a monster. It is a head turner. It is not ‘WHAT’ is done on the car but “HOW” it is done that makes all the difference. Yes, the looks.

What were the other options before you bought this car?
I specifically looked for the Durango; I was sold on the car especially for the space and power. It has everything I need.

How often do you use your car and what activities do you take part in?
This is my daily drive vehicle but I do not hesitate to take it offroad simply because it is built for that purpose.
All clubs are good and welcoming and I also enjoy going offroad with friends on the weekends and sometimes during the weekdays if time permits.
Other than the regular weekly drives in the desert, I am a Marshal at Gulf News, Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, Dubai Baja, Explore UAE and many other state level events and this is the only machine that withstands the beatings and takes me there.


Are you planning any future modifications?
Unlike the Wrangler, the Durango has limitations for modifications and I think I have modified it enough though but if I could get heavy duty axels and stiffer front shocks…. I would not mind. I can make the interior look better – we spend more time inside the car, so it has to be welcoming…

What 4X4 do you dream of owning?
Yes, a Jeep Wrangler 4 Door is something I would like to own and build – no limits to modifications…..■


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