2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2020 Dodge Durango

The 2020 Dodge Durango retained its styling from a 2014 update, with its design roots tracing back to a 2011 overhaul. Its connection to the Charger muscle sedan was evident, though the platform was undeniably dated. The Durango's cabin design was straightforward but felt outdated compared to its Jeep Grand Cherokee sibling, which had received more significant interior updates. Despite its age, the Durango offered a range of trims, from the basic SXT to the performance-oriented SRT, each adding unique features and styling elements. The SRT trim, in particular, stood out with its aggressive design and performance-focused features.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had become more accepted over time, though its short grille and swept-back headlights remained polarizing. The Cherokee's appearance varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition. Jeep's expertise in roof design was evident, with the Cherokee offering an optional panoramic sunroof. The Cherokee's design ensured it stood out in a crowded SUV market, bearing a resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee. Its interior was simple and businesslike, with variations in material quality and features depending on the chosen trim.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 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 top-tier SRT trim boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, delivering 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The SRT trim offered a performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, enhancing its handling capabilities. The Durango's performance pages allowed for detailed drive mode customization, making it a versatile choice for those seeking both power and practicality.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee provided three engine options, starting with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower, standard on the Latitude and Latitude Plus trims. The 3.2-liter V6 offered 271 horsepower, while the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Cherokee's engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, known for its fuel efficiency and improved behavior over earlier versions. The Trailhawk model excelled in off-road capability, featuring Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. While the Cherokee's acceleration was modest, its off-road prowess and available all-wheel drive made it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. This made it competitive with other three-row SUVs like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. The Durango's cabin provided ample space for passengers, with comfortable front seats and a choice between a three-passenger bench or captain's chairs in the second row. The third row was best suited for children, but access was easy thanks to large second-row doors and easy-fold seats. The Durango's towing capacity ranged from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded, placing it at the lower end of the compact SUV class. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in terms of interior space. The interior design was simple and functional, with variations in material quality depending on the trim level. The Trailhawk trim offered a more upscale feel with suede seat inserts and contrasting stitching, while the Latitude Lux featured perforated Nappa leather upholstery for a sporty appearance.

The 2020 Dodge Durango featured a 7-inch touchscreen on the SXT and GT trims, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system was praised for its intuitive layout and ease of use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all trims. The R/T, Citadel, and SRT trims offered navigation and SiriusXM Travel Link, along with an Alpine premium audio system. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available as an option. The semi-digital instrument panel was user-friendly, though smaller than some competitors, with improvements expected in the 2021 update.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's Uconnect infotainment system was available with a 7-inch touchscreen on lower trims and an 8.4-inch touchscreen on the Limited and Trailhawk trims. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though only in wired form. The Cherokee also offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, adding convenience for drivers in varying climates. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis brands, providing a familiar experience for those who had used it in other vehicles.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came equipped with 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. The Technology Group package added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-departure warning, though these features were optional. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a Moderate score in IIHS driver’s side small-front overlap testing, with Good scores in other crash tests.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received top "Good" scores in IIHS crashworthiness categories, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick award. The Cherokee's headlights received mixed ratings, with upper trims rated "Acceptable" and others "Marginal." The NHTSA gave the Cherokee a four-star overall safety rating. The Cherokee offered standard advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available on higher trims as part of an option package.