2019 Subaru Forester vs 2020 Dodge Durango

The 2019 Subaru Forester was slightly larger and wider than its predecessor, resembling a scaled-down version of the Subaru Ascent. This design choice made sense, as the Ascent was previously described as a scaled-up Forester. The Forester's cabin maintained a modern look but prioritized functionality over aesthetics, ensuring all utility aspects were considered before luxury. Available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trims, the Forester featured standard LED headlights, symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), and EyeSight driver-assistance systems across all trims. The base trim was well-equipped with 60/40 split-fold rear seats, dual front USB ports, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen, among other features. Higher trims added more luxurious touches, such as leather upholstery, larger touchscreens, and advanced safety features.

The 2020 Dodge Durango carried its styling from a 2014 update, with its third generation dating back to a 2011 redesign. The Durango's cabin design was straightforward but felt dated compared to its Jeep Grand Cherokee sibling, which had received more significant updates. The Durango was available in SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T, and SRT trims. The SXT trim came with 18-inch wheels, three-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims added features like 20-inch wheels, leather-and-suede upholstery, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen. The range-topping SRT trim featured a unique look with aggressive styling, auto-leveling headlights, and performance-tuned suspension and brakes.

The 2019 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a modest increase in power compared to the previous model but lacked the torque needed for strong acceleration. The Forester's only engine option was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and symmetrical AWD. The CVT prioritized efficiency over performance, resulting in underwhelming acceleration. However, Subaru's SI-Drive system allowed drivers to choose between Intelligent and Sport modes for better throttle response. The Forester's X-Mode terrain-management system, available on higher trims, optimized power delivery for various driving conditions. Despite its lackluster acceleration, the Forester offered a smooth ride and impressive fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, standard on the SXT, GT, and Citadel trims. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, also available on the Citadel. The range-topping SRT trim came with a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, producing 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD). The SRT trim offered a performance-tuned suspension and Brembo performance brakes, providing impressive handling for a vehicle of its size. The Durango's Uconnect infotainment system included performance pages for detailed engine status updates and drive mode customization.

The 2019 Subaru Forester offered impressive cargo space, with the base trim providing a class-leading 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space and other trims offering 70.9 cubic feet. The Forester's larger wheelbase resulted in more backseat space, and its 8.7 inches of ground clearance made it suitable for various terrains. The cabin prioritized functionality, with numerous cubbies, compartments, and bottle holders. The tall greenhouse provided excellent visibility and a commanding driving position, with plenty of legroom and headroom.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The Durango's towing capacity ranged from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The cabin offered plenty of space for occupants, with comfortable front seats and a choice of a three-passenger bench or second-row captain's chairs. The third row was best suited for children, but access was easy thanks to large second-row doors and easy-fold seats. The driver and front passenger had multiple storage options, and the second row of the SRT trim included a center console with cup holders.

The 2019 Subaru Forester featured the Starlink infotainment system, available with either a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. The system was responsive, with high resolution and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance systems included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and adaptive headlights. The Lead Vehicle Alert feature was particularly useful, providing an audible beep and graphic alert if the driver didn't notice the vehicle ahead moving away from a stoplight.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came with a 7-inch touchscreen on the SXT and GT trims, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen optional on the GT and standard on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system was user-friendly, with a tablet-inspired layout and dock icons for easy navigation. The Durango also featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with seamless transitions between menus. Higher trims included navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems from Alpine or Harman Kardon.

The 2019 Subaru Forester came standard with the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Other standard safety features included a full array of front- and side-impact airbags and a reversing camera. The Forester's excellent visibility further enhanced its safety.

The 2020 Dodge Durango included front- and side-impact airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and trailer sway control. Rear parking sensors were available on the SXT and standard on higher trims. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-path detection. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Moderate score in driver’s side small-front overlap testing from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).