2021 Dodge Durango vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

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 received updates for 2021, 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 look. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colours, with a cabin that boasted a modern instrument panel and the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The interior ranged from cloth to luxurious leather upholstery, with options for contrast stitching and unique seat belt colours, making it a versatile choice for different tastes.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second-generation design, which had been in place since 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia's exterior maintained a classic and elegant appearance, with modestly sized grilles and wheel arches. Its substantial dimensions and ground clearance gave it a commanding presence. Inside, the Sequoia's design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen. However, the interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability. The Nightshade Special Edition model, based on the Limited trim, showcased Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant with subtle updates.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6, a 5.7-litre HEMI V8, a 392 HEMI V8, and a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8. These engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, with AWD standard in Canada. The V6 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 V8 in the SRT Hellcat boasted an impressive 710 hp. The Durango's performance was complemented by smooth acceleration and precise steering, although its chassis showed its age on rough roads. The Durango R/T's Tow N Go Package allowed for a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds, making it a capable hauler.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a single powertrain option: a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck-based construction provided a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and independent suspension. However, its fuel consumption ratings were less favourable compared to more modern SUVs.

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, while the third row was more spacious than many competitors. The Durango's cargo space was average for its class, but its fit and finish had improved significantly over the years, earning awards for initial vehicle quality.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with roomy seating across all three rows and standard three-zone climate control. The interior featured a power moonroof, heated front seats, and optional heated rear seats. The Sequoia's cargo compartment offered 535 litres of space behind the third row, expandable to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and 3,401 litres with both the second and third rows flat. The Sequoia's interior storage options were plentiful, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch screen on higher trims, running the new Uconnect 5 system. This system offered faster performance, personalization options, and connectivity features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Durango also offered a rear-seat entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD capabilities. However, the analog speedometer's design made it challenging to read at a glance.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system lacked the modernity of its competitors. The Sequoia Platinum and TRD Pro trims added navigation and a JBL premium audio system. Despite its dated infotainment, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's safety features were limited compared to its rivals. It came standard with a backup camera and passive safety features like airbags and electronic stability control. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS rated the Durango as Marginal for small overlap frontal impact, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star front crash and rollover rating.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Toyota Safety Sense P suite included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Sequoia also featured the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. A full complement of airbags and other safety features made the Sequoia a well-equipped choice for safety-conscious buyers.