Dodge Durango vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was offered in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and two battery sizes. Models with the larger battery were priced higher but delivered enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior was enhanced with Heavy Metal paint and other accessories, bringing the MSRP to $40,468. The 2026 bZ's design improvements, such as body-color trim, were noted to be more appealing than previous models. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the fabric seats featured an upscale pattern. The 14-inch center touchscreen integrated climate controls, which, despite initial concerns, were user-friendly due to large dials and buttons. However, the digital driver display's placement and size remained a drawback, as it was difficult to read and could be obstructed by the steering wheel.

The 2026 Dodge Durango, despite its age, maintained a strong presence with its blend of chunky fenders and smooth body panels. A refresh in 2021 updated its grille, lighting, and bumpers, while the interior dashboard received an overhaul. The Durango's signature wraparound LED taillight remained a standout feature. The vehicle's stance and front end projected a tough attitude, making it a popular choice for police cruisers. The America250 package, introduced at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, added unique styling elements to select trims. Inside, the Durango's age showed in the style of switches and materials, but its analog controls were appreciated for their simplicity and functionality. The touchscreen was adequately sized and integrated into the dash. While the interior materials were not of the highest quality, the Durango's driving experience, characterized by its powerful engines and smooth transmission, compensated for these shortcomings.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE with FWD featured a single electric motor paired with a 57.7-kWh battery, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles, though the Limited trim's range was slightly lower at 299 miles. Dual-motor models, equipped with the larger battery, produced 338 hp and offered varying ranges and efficiency ratings. The bZ supported fast charging, compatible with Tesla Superchargers, and could recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. Home charging times varied based on battery size. Efficiency tests showed the bZ performed better than EPA estimates in certain conditions. The vehicle's handling was generally agreeable, though it struggled on winding roads due to its tires and steering characteristics.

The 2026 Dodge Durango was predominantly powered by V8 engines, with a 3.6-liter V6 available on base trims. The V6 produced 295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, but struggled with the Durango's weight. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8, available on higher trims, offered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving performance and towing capacity. The SRT Hellcat, with its 6.2-liter supercharged V8, delivered 710 hp, while the 6.4-liter V8 on the R/T trim produced 475 hp. The Durango's eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD system provided smooth operation. The SRT Hellcat's performance was particularly impressive, with its powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension. However, the Durango's steering accuracy was lacking, and the ride was stiff across all trims.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on a skateboard-style EV platform, offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making entry and exit easy. The front seats featured standard height adjustment and eight-way power adjustment, providing comfort and support. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated seats available on the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom, though foot space was limited. Cargo space was 27.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 56.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2026 Dodge Durango offered seating configurations for five, six, or seven passengers. Most trims featured a second-row bench seat, while captain's chairs were optional on select trims. The third row was tight, reflecting the Durango's older platform. Headroom and legroom in the first two rows were adequate, though seat padding was firm. Cargo space was competitive, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.1 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The driver display's placement and size were criticized for being difficult to read. The infotainment system, running Toyota Audio Multimedia, was generally user-friendly but lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The voice assistant performed well, though it occasionally struggled with complex commands.

The 2026 Dodge Durango featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, offering navigation, HD Radio, and SiriusXM 360L. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, while Android Auto required a wired connection. The Durango lacked some modern features, such as semi-automated driving and rear-seat entertainment. However, performance functions were available in the Hellcat's infotainment system.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included a suite of advanced safety features. Proactive Driving Assist provided additional safety through subtle braking and steering inputs. The Limited trim offered Traffic Jam Assist and other advanced features. However, the bZ's adaptive cruise control was inconsistent, and the lack of a touch-sensitive steering wheel was a drawback. The IIHS rated the bZ's front-crash avoidance tech highly, but its headlights and frontal-impact crash-test ratings were less favorable.

The 2026 Dodge Durango received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. While it featured a driver's knee airbag and central side airbag, its dated body structure limited its crash performance. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitors and parking sensors, but many modern driver-assist features were unavailable. The Durango's safety rating was lower due to these limitations.