2020 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Dodge Durango carried its styling over from a 2014 update, with its third generation dating back to a complete redesign in 2011. The connections to the Charger muscle sedan were evident, but the Durango was based on a decade-old platform. Its cabin design was straightforward yet simple, sharing a platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee but with a longer wheelbase and overall length. While the Jeep received significant cabin updates, the Durango felt somewhat dated and in need of a refresh, which was expected for the 2021 model year.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander stood out in a crowd with its distinctive styling. Its front end was less dramatic than the 2021 Sienna minivan but still made a statement with wide headlights, a long hood, and an assertive grille. The side profile featured a character line similar to the Supra sports car, and the taillights resembled those of a Lexus model. The Highlander managed to look longer and lower than its predecessor without sacrificing size. The new XSE trim level added a more aggressive front end and suspension tuning, while the Limited trim offered an upscale appearance with chrome accents and a luxurious interior.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT, GT, and Citadel came standard 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 range-topping SRT boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, branded the "392," delivering 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive depending on the trim. The SRT trim also included performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, with Dodge SRT performance pages for detailed engine status updates and drive mode customization.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options. The Highlander Hybrid was available as a separate model. The powertrain provided smooth and predictable operation, suitable for merging onto highways and everyday driving. The XSE trim added higher-rated springs, retuned shock absorbers, power steering, and a rear stabilizer bar for a slightly sportier driving experience. However, the Highlander was not designed for high-performance driving but excelled in comfort and reliability.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided 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. 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 more suitable for children. The driver and front passenger had access to multiple cargo bins, bottle holders, and trays for gear.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured shelves ahead of the front seats for storage, with a wireless charging pad available on trims above the LE. Second-row passengers enjoyed ample legroom, with seats that moved forward and backward to optimize space. The third row could accommodate adults if the second row was adjusted. The rear-seat climate control vents were positioned on the ceiling, which was less ideal. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows folded, providing ample storage for most needs.

The 2020 Dodge Durango's SXT and GT trims came with a 7-inch touchscreen, while an 8.4-inch touchscreen was 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. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and higher trims included navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems. The semi-digital instrument panel was helpful, with easy navigation via the steering wheel's directional pad.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander offered an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen available on the Limited trim and standard on the Platinum trim. Both systems were easy to use, with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The 12.3-inch screen was bright and responsive, though navigation struggled with points of interest. The JBL audio system provided good sound quality, and the interface included volume and tuning knobs.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came 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. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection were also available. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a Moderate score in driver’s side small-front overlap testing from the IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection support, road-sign assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-tracing assist, and automatic high beams. The Highlander received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.