2020 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Genesis GV80

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 The cabin design was straightforward but felt somewhat outdated compared to its Jeep Grand Cherokee sibling, which had received more significant interior updates. The Durango was in need of a refresh, which was anticipated for the 2021 model year, promising more aggressive exterior styling and a reworked cabin. The 2020 model offered various trims, including the SXT, GT, R/T, Citadel, and SRT, each with distinct features ranging from basic amenities to luxury touches and performance enhancements.

In contrast, the 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design without the burden of legacy expectations. It successfully integrated design elements from the G80 sedan, featuring a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and Quad Lamp LED headlights. The GV80's design was both innovative and elegant, with big wheel arches and a cohesive rear design. Inside, the GV80 boasted a sleek, uncluttered dashboard with a focus on horizontal lines, real wood, metal, and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display. The interior was a testament to luxury and modern technology, offering a sophisticated driving experience.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT, GT, and Citadel came 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 hp and 390 lb-ft 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 model stood out with its performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, offering impressive acceleration and handling for its size.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 provided two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80's 3.5T models featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview, enhancing ride comfort. The 2.5T engine was lively, while the 3.5T offered a smoother and more powerful experience, aided by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption estimates for the GV80 were 11.3 L/100 km city/9.5 highway/10.5 combined for the 2.5T, and 12.9 L/100 km city/10.4 highway/11.8 combined for the 3.5T.

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. This was competitive with other three-row SUVs, though the VW Atlas offered more space. The Durango's towing capacity ranged from 2,812 kg to 3,946 kg, depending on configuration. The cabin provided ample space for front and second-row passengers, with the third row being more suitable for children. The interior featured multiple storage options and a user-friendly layout.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was a sophisticated vehicle with a centre console and stack that combined technology, design, and ergonomics. It featured a rotary gear selector, a multimedia controller with dual control capability, and capacitive touch HVAC controls. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. The 3.5T models included a third row, increasing passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats. The GV80's interior was a blend of luxury and functionality, offering a premium experience for occupants.

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

The 2021 Genesis GV80 utilized the sixth-generation Genesis UX on a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable displays. Android users could use a digital key function, while the GV80 provided five years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came with standard airbags, electronic stability control, and trailer sway control. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-departure warning. The Durango received a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a Moderate score from the IIHS for driver’s side small-front overlap testing.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured 10 airbags, including a front-centre airbag, and a suite of driver assistance features such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and Remote Smart Parking Assist.