2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, presented a blend of rugged styling and practicality. Despite its fully loaded status, it maintained a rental car appearance, lacking the larger alloy wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart. The electronic AWD system was not suited for off-road adventures, unlike the non-hybrid Trail trim. The RAV4's design was tough for a compact SUV, but it could benefit from bolder wheels. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was stylish and functional, though quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A rattle from the license plate was noted, but overall, the interior was practical and user-friendly.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango retained its muscular stance and athletic styling, aligning with Dodge's family of vehicles. The Durango SRT Hellcat model showcased a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, and LED headlamps. With six 20-inch wheel varieties and 11 exterior colours, the Durango offered customization options. Inside, the cabin featured a new instrument panel and Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The Durango's interior became more premium with higher trims, offering leather and suede options. Despite its age, the Durango's updates brought it in line with Dodge's muscle cars, providing a model for nearly every preference.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. The hybrid system offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid's curb weight ranged from 1,680 to 1,720 kilograms, making it heavier than the standard RAV4. Despite this, the electric motor's torque provided lively acceleration, though the engine's sound was unpleasant at high revs. Fuel efficiency was impressive, averaging 5.9 L/100 km. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension and steering contributed to a comfortable ride, though the tires lacked grip during spirited driving.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered four engine options: a 3.6-litre V6, 5.7-litre HEMI V8, 392 HEMI V8, and a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8. 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 produced 710 hp. The Durango's AWD system was standard in Canada, providing stability and control. The SUV's steering was precise, but the chassis showed its age, affecting ride quality. The Durango's brakes were effective, even during track use. The R/T model's Tow N Go Package allowed for impressive towing capabilities, enhancing its versatility.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom was decent, with reclining backrests and heated cushions. The dashboard was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy cargo area of 1,059 litres, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, seating up to seven across three rows. The front and second-row seats were spacious, while the third row offered more room than many competitors. Cargo space was average for its class, but the Durango's fit and finish had improved significantly. The SUV's midsize packaging made it versatile and easy to drive, appealing to families seeking a balance between space and style.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. The RAV4 Hybrid also offered advanced camera-based technology, including a 360-degree surround-view camera system.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's Uconnect 5 system, available on higher trims, was five times faster than its predecessor. It offered user profiles, connected services, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was easy to navigate, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. The Durango also offered a rear-seat entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD capabilities. The TomTom navigation system was a standout feature, providing clear and accurate directions.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The system was generally effective, though lane-tracing and adaptive cruise control had some quirks. The RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's safety features were limited, with a back-up camera as the only standard active safety feature. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Durango received a Marginal rating from the IIHS for small overlap frontal impact and a four-star front crash rating from the NHTSA.