2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Dodge Durango

The 2020 Dodge Durango carried its styling over from a 2014 update, with its third generation dating back to a complete redesign in 2011. The connections to the Charger muscle sedan were evident, but the Durango was based on a decade-old platform. Its cabin design was straightforward but felt somewhat dated, especially compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which shared the same platform but had received more significant updates. The Durango was in desperate need of a refresh, which was expected for the 2021 model year. The 2020 Durango came in various trims, including SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T, and SRT, each offering different features and levels of luxury.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner had not seen a complete redesign in 12 years. Despite updates over the years, a used 4Runner was almost identical to a new one, minus some latest infotainment and safety technologies. The 4Runner's design had aged well, with its two-box body, flared fenders, and trapezoidal wheel arches giving it a timeless and utilitarian look. The 4Runner was available in SR5, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro trims, with special editions like the Trail Special Edition, Venture Special Edition, and Nightshade Special Edition. Pricing ranged from $36,950 for the SR5 to $50,570 for the TRD Pro.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT, GT, and Citadel came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, which was also available on the Citadel. The top-tier SRT trim boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, known as the "392," delivering 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) options depending on the trim. The Durango's performance was impressive, especially the SRT, which featured a performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, offering car-like handling and minimal body roll.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were highlighted by its A-Trac off-road traction control system, which proved beneficial in challenging terrains. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims offered additional off-road features like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. However, the 4Runner felt slow, heavy, and clunky on paved roads, with a truck-like driving experience that might not appeal to everyone. Its fuel efficiency was also a drawback, averaging 16.8 mpg during testing.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. This was comparable to other three-row SUVs like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. The Durango's cabin was spacious, with comfortable front seats and a second row that could be configured with either a bench or captain's chairs. The third row was more suitable for children. The Durango also offered multiple storage options and a towing capacity ranging from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner sat high off the ground, which could be challenging for shorter individuals to climb aboard. However, once inside, the 4Runner offered comfortable seating with proper support in both the front and rear seats. The back seat provided ample legroom, good visibility, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. The 4Runner's cargo space measured up to 47.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. The Trail Special Edition featured a sliding cargo deck and a big roof rack, adding to its utility. Interior storage was decent, and the back bumper served as a convenient seating area.

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 user-friendly, with a tablet-inspired layout and dock icons for easy navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems. The semi-digital instrument panel was helpful, though not as large as in some competitors.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, SiriusXM satellite radio, and five USB ports. The premium audio upgrade added dynamic navigation, point-of-interest search, and voice recognition, along with a one-year subscription to Destination Assist. The system was easy to use, with physical shortcut buttons and knobs that could be operated while wearing gloves. Despite its old-school appearance, the infotainment system's functionality was impressive.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came with a full array of airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and trailer sway control. Rear parking sensors were available on the SXT and standard on higher trims. Optional driver-assistance features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-path detection. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a Moderate score in the IIHS driver’s side small-front overlap test.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating for driver protection in a small overlap frontal-impact collision from the IIHS. The roof crush strength was rated Good by the IIHS.