2021 Dodge Durango vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

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 Durango's exterior received updates for the 2021 model year, particularly evident in the high-performance SRT Hellcat model. This version featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, LED headlamps, and a rear spoiler, enhancing its aggressive stance. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colours, allowing for personalization. Inside, the cabin was updated with a new instrument panel and a choice between an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. 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 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia for a rugged appearance. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line, adding unnecessary visual weight. The rear design echoed the grille's shape, resulting in a somewhat disjointed overall look compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander's asymmetrical dash incorporated a metallic styling element, creating a storage tray and breaking up monotony. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned high on the dash for easy visibility. The Bronze Edition test vehicle featured unique bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, which, while distinctive, posed durability concerns. The Softex synthetic leather substitute was less convincing compared to alternatives, and the third-row seating area had more hard plastics, impacting comfort.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6, 5.7-litre HEMI V8, 392 HEMI V8, and a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8. The V6 engine produced up to 295 horsepower, while the 5.7-litre V8 delivered 360 hp. The 392 HEMI V8 offered 475 hp, and the supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8 in the SRT Hellcat model boasted an impressive 710 hp. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, and AWD was standard in Canada. The Durango's performance was characterized by smooth acceleration and responsive steering, though its chassis showed its age, particularly on rough roads. The SRT models featured SRT Performance Pages for track enthusiasts, providing detailed performance data.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It utilized a CVT and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle when needed. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick initial response, with the gasoline engine taking over for sustained acceleration. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in a droning engine sound under heavy acceleration. The Highlander Hybrid's ride quality was soft, with a suspension that smoothed over bumps, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, offering comfortable seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. The front and second-row seats provided ample space for taller occupants, while the third row was more spacious than many competitors. The Durango's cargo space was average for its class, and its fit and finish had improved significantly over the years, contributing to its reputation for quality.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. The interior offered plenty of storage options, including trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs for added versatility. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children or smaller adults. Cargo space behind the third row measured 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the third row folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims, while higher trims received a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 system. This system was faster and more customizable than its predecessor, offering connected services, dual Bluetooth connections, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Durango also offered a rear-seat entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD capabilities. The TomTom navigation system was user-friendly, though a HUD would have enhanced its usability.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available on top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and higher trims included a wireless charging pad. Navigation and a JBL premium audio system were available on Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2021 Dodge Durango lagged behind rivals in safety features, with a standard back-up camera as its only active safety feature. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS rated it as Marginal for small overlap frontal impact, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star side crash rating and a four-star front crash and rollover rating.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Platinum trim offered a surround view camera system and head-up display. While the safety systems generally performed well, some fine-tuning was needed for smoother operation.