2021 Subaru Outback vs 2020 Dodge Durango

The 2020 Dodge Durango retained its styling from a 2014 update, with its third generation dating back to a 2011 redesign. Its connections to the Charger muscle sedan were evident, though the platform was a decade old. The Durango's cabin design was straightforward but felt dated compared to its Jeep Grand Cherokee counterpart, which had received more significant 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 Durango offered trims like SXT, GT, R/T, Citadel, and SRT, each with varying features from basic to luxury and performance-oriented options.

The 2021 Subaru Outback, redesigned for the 2020 model year, maintained a familiar and comfortable feel akin to older models. While the base trim had a less appealing dual-screen setup, higher trims featured a bright 11.6-inch portrait display. The interior quality was evident, with substantial materials and comfortable seating, especially in the Limited and Premier trims. The Outback's exterior was smooth and plain, with high ground clearance and chrome flourishes. Changes for 2021 included new paint options and standard adaptive LED headlights. The Outback was a lifted wagon, offering a great alternative to typical crossovers or SUVs.

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 boasted 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's performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes enhanced its driving experience, with the Dodge SRT performance pages offering detailed engine status updates and drive mode customization.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's base engine was a 2.5-litre boxer flat-four, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine struggled with the Outback's weight, especially when loaded. The XT trims offered a turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four, delivering 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving performance. The Outback prioritized ride comfort and off-road capability, with long-travel springs and high ground clearance. Subaru's electronically-variable AWD system provided excellent traction, with X-Mode optimizing performance in tough conditions. The Outback was more proficient off-road than many crossovers and SUVs.

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 rows down. It provided ample cabin space, with comfortable front seats and a choice of second-row configurations. 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 interior featured multiple storage options, including cargo bins and cupholders.

The 2021 Subaru Outback had 2,144 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 920 litres with them raised. The cargo area was wide and flat, with ample headroom and legroom in all seating positions. The Outback offered excellent outward visibility, with thin pillars and lots of glass. Storage options included large map pockets, bottle holders, and a front centre console with handy pockets. The Outback's standard roof rails and integrated crossbars were a standout feature, allowing easy installation of a roof rack. The 11.6-inch touchscreen complicated climate controls but was generally responsive.

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 user-friendly, with a tablet-inspired layout and dock icons for easy navigation. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems. The semi-digital instrument panel was navigable via a steering wheel directional pad.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system appeared dated, with graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles. However, it offered modern tech like adaptive cruise control and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, included adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The system's functionality was impressive but relied solely on cameras, lacking radar supplementation. The single large screen was more cohesive than the base model's dual-screen setup.

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 NHTSA rating and a Moderate score in IIHS driver’s side small-front overlap testing.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a stronger chassis and standard airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag. Blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking were standard from the Touring trim. The Outback was a 2020 IIHS "Top Safety Pick+," with top ratings in crash tests and forward emergency braking. The NHTSA awarded it five stars overall, with four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and rollover test.