2020 Dodge Durango vs 2019 Honda CR-V

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered a straightforward selection process with four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. The base model came with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while AWD was standard on all other trims in Canada. Prices ranged from $27,690 to $39,090, excluding destination charges. The CR-V's design was generally appealing, with 17-inch aluminum wheels on the LX and 18-inch wheels on higher trims. The interior was noted for its quality materials and construction, providing a sense of value despite the presence of hard plastics.

In contrast, the 2020 Dodge Durango retained its styling from a 2014 update, with a cabin design that felt somewhat dated. Sharing a platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Durango had a longer wheelbase and overall length. The interior updates were less significant compared to the Jeep, leading to a need for a refresh, which was anticipated for the 2021 model year. The Durango's trims included SXT, GT, R/T, Citadel, and SRT, each offering varying levels of features and luxury, with the SRT trim boasting a unique and aggressive look.

The 2019 Honda CR-V in Canada was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it offered a choice between FWD and AWD. The engine was responsive and provided satisfying acceleration, though it had some issues in cold weather and with battery reliability. The CR-V's driving dynamics were impressive, with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link double wishbone rear suspension, and dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric steering. It averaged 10.2 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly below expectations.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, standard on the SXT, GT, and Citadel trims. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, while the SRT trim boasted a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 with 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The SRT trim offered a performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, with the Dodge SRT performance pages providing detailed drive mode customization.

The 2019 Honda CR-V provided ample interior space, though the lack of a height adjuster for the front passenger seat was a drawback. The driver enjoyed a 12-way power adjustable seat, and heated front seats were standard in Canada. The rear seats offered plenty of space, with air vents and USB ports for convenience. The CR-V excelled in cargo space, offering 1,110 litres behind the back seat and 2,146 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered 490 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,351 litres with the rear seats folded, and 2,393 litres with both the second and third rows down. The Durango's cabin was spacious, with comfortable front seats and a choice between a three-passenger bench or captain's chairs in the second row. The third row was best suited for children. The Durango also featured multiple storage options and a centre console in the second row of the SRT model.

The 2019 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included a rearview camera, text messaging capability, and HondaLink connected services. The system had a power/volume knob but lacked a tuning knob, and the voice activation was not user-friendly. The Touring trim added a premium audio system and navigation.

The 2020 Dodge Durango's SXT and GT trims came with a 7-inch touchscreen, while an 8.4-inch touchscreen was optional on the GT and standard on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system was praised for its straightforward menu layout and ease of use. The Durango included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with navigation and a premium audio system available on higher trims. The semi-digital instrument panel was user-friendly, and the R/T, Citadel, and SRT trims offered additional features like SiriusXM Travel Link.

The 2019 Honda CR-V included Honda Sensing on all trims except the base LX FWD, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Touring trim added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The CR-V received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came with front- and side-impact airbags, electronic stability control, and trailer sway control. Rear parking sensors were standard, with front sensors on higher trims. The Technology Group package added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-departure warning. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a Moderate score in IIHS driver’s side small-front overlap testing.