2020 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2020 Dodge Durango retained its styling from a 2014 update, with its design roots tracing back to a 2011 overhaul. Its connection to the Charger muscle sedan was evident, though the platform was undeniably dated. The Durango shared its platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but with a longer wheelbase and overall length. While the Jeep received significant cabin updates, the Durango's interior felt outdated and in need of a refresh. Fortunately, a refresh was anticipated for the 2021 model year, promising more aggressive exterior styling and a reworked cabin. The 2020 Durango offered trims like SXT, GT, R/T, Citadel, and SRT, each with varying features from basic amenities to luxury touches and performance enhancements.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh, featuring a revised exterior with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille, giving it a more muscular look. The rear boasted an all-LED taillamp spanning the model's width. Inside, the Pacifica balanced practicality with premium touches, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which offered quilted Nappa leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Pacifica's interior was designed for family life, with features like Stow 'n Go seating and ample storage. The Pinnacle trim stood out with its upscale materials and sound-deadening technology, making it a top choice for those seeking luxury in a minivan.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT, GT, and Citadel came standard with a 3.6-litre V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, also available on the Citadel. The SRT trim was equipped with a 6.4-litre Hemi V8, delivering 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The SRT trim offered a performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, enhancing its car-like handling and acceleration.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. A hybrid option combined a V6 engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid offered an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres. All-wheel drive was available for the first time in 16 years, automatically engaging when needed. The traditional V6 Pacifica had fuel consumption ratings of 12.4 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 on the highway, while the hybrid used 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided 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. It offered competitive space compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. The Durango's cabin was spacious, with comfortable front seats and a second row available as a bench or captain's chairs. The third row was best suited for children. The Durango's towing capacity ranged from 2,812 kilograms to 3,946 kilograms, depending on configuration.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed for family life, with features like power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating. The front seats were spacious, and the second row offered under-console storage. The Pacifica's cargo area was generous, with best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres. The interior was practical yet premium, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which featured upscale materials and thoughtful storage solutions.

The 2020 Dodge Durango featured a 7-inch touchscreen on the SXT and GT trims, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system was praised for its user-friendly interface and straightforward navigation. The Durango came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems, including a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was modern and customizable, with a clean design and quick responsiveness. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The second row's in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games available. The Pacifica offered a six-speaker sound system, with upgrades to a 13-speaker Alpine system or a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option. The Pinnacle model featured FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features.

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. Optional safety features included 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.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with many standard on higher trims. These included automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, and a surround-view camera were available. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.