2021 Dodge Durango vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular and athletic styling, reminiscent of its Charger and Challenger siblings. Despite its third-generation design dating back to 2011, the 2021 model year brought subtle revisions, particularly evident in the high-performance SRT Hellcat variant. This model featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, LED headlamps, and a rear spoiler, enhancing its aggressive stance. The Durango offered a range of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colours, catering to diverse tastes. Inside, the cabin was updated with a modern instrument panel and the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available on either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The interior materials ranged from cloth to premium leather, with options for contrast stitching and unique seat belt colours, adding a touch of flair.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 debuted as a fresh take on electrified mobility, distinct from its predecessor. Its exterior design, characterized by the Parametric Pixel theme, combined minimalistic lines with intricate lighting details, creating a futuristic yet somewhat polarizing look. The Ioniq 5's aerodynamic alloy wheels and unique design elements contributed to its concept car-like appearance. Inside, the cabin embraced a "Living Space" theme, offering a serene environment with sustainable materials and a focus on comfort. The interior featured stain-resistant cloth or leatherette upholstery, recycled fibres, and bio-materials, emphasizing eco-friendliness. The Ioniq 5's spaciousness was enhanced by its long wheelbase, providing ample room for passengers and a flat floor for added versatility.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 producing up to 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft, while the 392 HEMI V8 in the SRT 392 model boasted 475 hp and 470 lb-ft. The pinnacle of power came with the supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8 in the SRT Hellcat, generating a staggering 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the Durango maintained smooth acceleration and precise steering, though its aging chassis showed limitations on rough roads and tracks. The Durango's towing capacity reached 8,700 pounds, supported by the Tow N Go Package, enhancing its utility for hauling.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, available in two trims and three powertrains, offered a base model with a 125-kW rear motor producing 168 hp and a range of 354 km. The Preferred long-range variant featured a 168-kW motor with 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, extending the range to 488 km. The AWD option added a dual-motor system, delivering 320 hp and 446 lb-ft, with a range of 414 km. The Ioniq 5's performance was balanced, with four drive modes, including Sport, which enhanced driving dynamics at the cost of range. The vehicle's regenerative braking system, adjustable via paddle shifters, added an engaging element to the driving experience. The Ioniq 5 prioritized comfort and quietness, with noise-reducing features and a focus on minimizing vibrations.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, offering seating for up to seven across three rows. Its midsize design provided a balance between spaciousness and maneuverability, with ample room in the front and second rows. The third row, standard in Canada, was more accommodating than many competitors, ensuring comfort for passengers. Cargo space was average for its class, but the Durango's fit and finish had improved significantly, reflecting Dodge's commitment to quality.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), maximized interior space with a long wheelbase. Despite its hatchback appearance, the Ioniq 5 offered a roomy cabin, surpassing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4 in interior volume. The "Living Space" theme emphasized comfort, with a moveable centre console and flat floor enhancing versatility. The leatherette seats provided a balance of support and comfort, catering to various driver sizes.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available on a 10.1-inch touchscreen in higher trims. This system offered faster performance, user profiles, and connected services, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The rear-seat entertainment system, available on select models, included Blu-ray and DVD players with dual 9-inch screens. The TomTom navigation system was praised for its clarity and responsiveness, though the lack of a head-up display was noted.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 impressed with its advanced technology, including a high-voltage system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes, and offered a redesigned Blue Link app for EV management. The Ioniq 5's 12.3-inch screens, with anti-glare coating, provided clear and intuitive displays. The vehicle's multimedia features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and over-the-air updates, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's safety features were limited, with a standard back-up camera and optional active safety systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS rated it as Marginal for small overlap frontal impact, while the NHTSA awarded it a five-star side crash rating and four-star front crash and rollover ratings.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, offering a comprehensive suite of ADAS features, including lane keeping assist and forward collision avoidance. The Highway Drive Assist I system provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, learning the driver's habits for a personalized experience. The Ioniq 5 also featured a head-up display with augmented reality overlays, though its practicality was debated. While official safety ratings were pending, Hyundai's track record suggested high expectations for the Ioniq 5.