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If you have a larger family and have long trips often, a large and comfortable SUV with a 3rd row is a decent option. In this category, we have the Dodge Durango 2021 and the Ford Explorer 2021, both starting at around $32,000 MSRP, so let’s see how they compare
When we are looking at the powertrains, the Dodge Durango 2021 has plenty of useful alternatives. The base engine is the all used 3.6L Pentastar V6 with 295hp and 260 lb*ft of torque. The other options are all HEMI engines, a 5.7L V* with cylinder deactivation technology, with an output of 360 hp and 390 lb*ft of torque. A 6.4L V8 with the same cylinder deactivation technology, with an output of 475 hp and 470 lb*ft of torque. A supercharged 6.2L V8 was featured on the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, with an output of 707 hp and 650 lb*ft of torque. All these options are linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission (a slightly different one depending on the engine), with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Ford Explorer 2021, however, comes with three options: A base turbocharged 2.3L I4 with 280 hp and 310 lb*ft of torque. A twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6, with 365 hp and 380 lb*ft of torque (or slightly more if buying a specific trim), or a 3.3L hybrid V6, with a combined 318 hp and 322 lb*ft of torque. All of those can be either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with only a singular 10-speed automatic transmission. Worth noting is that the Ford Explorer’s powertrain figures are with premium fuel. Usage of regular fuel lowers the numbers.
As far as the interior is concerned, the Dodge Durango 2021 comes with all the expected features: an infotainment system capable of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay regardless of version, all the safety features (adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, brake assist, etc.) screens for the rear-seat passengers, and many more.
Owners are pleased with their choice; people praising its comfort during long trips, how well it’s tuned and how it doesn’t feel like a 5500 lbs large SUV.
As such, if you have a more prominent family and longer trips are common, the Dodge Durango 2021 comes with a more useful variety of powertrains, every possible interior need, and incredible comfort, outclassing the Ford Explorer 2021. Whether you are in Plainfield, Indianapolis, Avon, or surrounding areas, drive on into York CDJR of Brazil to test Drive the all-new 2021 Dodge Durango where “We’re not #1, you are!”
* Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes taxes, license, registration/title, optional or regionally required equipment and destination charge. Dealers set own prices. ** Based on EPA ratings. Use for comparison only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery-pack age/condition (for hybrid vehicles) and other factors. The contents of this report are from reliable sources, but are not warranted or guaranteed in any way. You are advised to check with each manufacturer or its representatives as the final authority on its products. Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side airbags (SAB). Starting with 2011 models, NHTSA has introduced tougher tests and rigorous new 5-Star Safety Ratings that provide more information about vehicle safety and crash avoidance technologies. Because of the more stringent tests, ratings for 2011 and newer vehicles should not be compared to ratings for 1990-2010 models. Overall vehicle score and frontal crash ratings should ONLY be compared to other vehicles of similar size and weight. For more information go to www.safercar.gov
