2020 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2020 Dodge Durango retained its styling from a 2014 update, with its design roots tracing back to a 2011 redesign. Its connection to the Charger muscle sedan was evident, though the platform was over a decade old. 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 several trims, including SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T, and SRT, each offering various features from basic amenities to luxury touches and performance enhancements.

The 2021 Lexus NX carried over its familial design, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior reminiscent of other Lexus models. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport gasoline models offered a sporty appearance, especially the F Sport with its unique grille and wheels. The interior was well-finished, with quilted NuLuxe sport seats and available leather and wood trim. The gauge cluster, though functional, appeared outdated compared to newer digital displays. The NX F Sport included a G-Force meter, adding a touch of performance flair, though it was more of a novelty for this suburban SUV.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT, GT, and Citadel came with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. 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 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 available. The SRT's performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes enhanced its handling, while the Dodge SRT performance pages allowed for detailed drive mode customization.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The standard six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The NX offered an adaptive-suspension system for improved ride comfort, and its three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—allowed for some customization of the driving experience.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided ample cargo space, with 17.2 cubic feet 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 down. The Durango's towing capacity ranged from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration. The cabin offered comfortable seating, with options for second-row captain's chairs or a bench. The third row was best suited for children, but access was easy thanks to large doors and foldable second-row seats.

The 2021 Lexus NX's interior was comfortable, with spacious front seats and adequate legroom in the second row. The NX offered 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. While not the largest in its class, the NX's cargo area was functional. The cabin was quiet, with minimal road and wind noise, and featured a power liftgate with kick sensor technology as an option.

The 2020 Dodge Durango featured a 7-inch touchscreen on the SXT and GT trims, with an 8.4-inch screen available on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system was praised for its user-friendly interface, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. Higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems, including a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the Lexus system was less intuitive. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The Navigation package added Lexus Enform Destination Assist and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system was available on top trims.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came with standard front- and side-impact airbags, electronic stability control, and trailer sway control. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-departure warning. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a Moderate score in IIHS driver’s side small-front overlap testing.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 as standard, including lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided additional safety services.