2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2020 Dodge Durango

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a vehicle that grew on you with its understated elegance. It wasn't flashy, but its design choices were purposeful, enhancing functionality. The dished hood improved forward visibility, crucial for off-road adventures, while the subtly bulging fenders accommodated wheel travel and hinted at the vehicle's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels, making it ready for overlanding adventures. Inside, the Land Cruiser flirted with luxury, offering black perforated leather-trimmed seating and a functional, if somewhat plain, dashboard. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system was surrounded by a sea of buttons, controlling everything from HVAC to navigation, while the instrument panel featured old-school analog gauges.

In contrast, the 2020 Dodge Durango carried over its styling from a 2014 update, with a cabin design that felt somewhat dated. Sharing a platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Durango's interior updates were less significant, leaving it in need of a refresh. However, a refresh was on the horizon for the 2021 model year, promising more aggressive exterior styling and a reworked cabin. The Durango offered a range of trims, from the basic SXT with a 7-inch touchscreen to the luxurious Citadel with premium leather upholstery and a power moonroof. The SRT trim stood out with its aggressive styling, performance-tuned suspension, and unique leather-and-suede seats, making it a menacing presence on the road.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This naturally aspirated engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, provided the confidence to tackle any terrain. The Land Cruiser's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select control, allowing drivers to adapt to various surface conditions. With an approach angle of 32 degrees, a departure angle of 24 degrees, and a breakover angle of 21 degrees, the Land Cruiser was well-equipped for overland adventures. Despite its size, the vehicle offered a serene and relaxing driving experience, with body roll nicely controlled.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 360 horsepower, while the SRT trim boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, delivering 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The SRT's performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes provided impressive handling for a vehicle of its size. The Durango's driving experience was further enhanced by the Dodge SRT performance pages, allowing for detailed drive mode customization. The SRT's acceleration was expected, but its car-like handling was a pleasant surprise, with minimal body roll and impressive cornering capabilities.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a dual personality, excelling as both a commuter and an overlander. It featured standard skid plates, tow hooks, and mudguards, making it ready for any adventure. The three-row configuration provided ample space for families, with heated second-row seats and a split-folding third row. The Land Cruiser's interior boasted four-zone climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box in the center console. It could tow up to 8,100 pounds and featured a charming split tailgate, perfect for picnics.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Durango's cabin offered plenty of space for occupants, 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 the configuration.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a Qi-compatible inductive charging station and Toyota Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation. The sound system included 14 JBL speakers, but the absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was notable. The 9-inch touchscreen interface, while functional, felt small compared to competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera was a useful feature, providing selectable front, side, or rear views for navigating tight spaces.

The 2020 Dodge Durango's Uconnect infotainment system was a standout feature, offering a straightforward menu layout and simple navigation. The SXT and GT trims came with a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured an 8.4-inch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the system's dock icons made transitioning between functions seamless. Higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and premium audio systems, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but its robust body structure and advanced safety features provided peace of mind. Toyota Safety Sense P included a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Land Cruiser also featured 10 airbags, active headrests, and a comprehensive suite of safety systems, including Trailer Sway Control and hill start assist.

The 2020 Dodge Durango came with a full array of airbags, electronic stability control, and trailer sway control. While high-tech driver-assistance features were optional, the Technology Group package added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-departure warning. The Durango earned a four-star rating from NHTSA and a Good score in most IIHS crash tests, with its crash-prevention technology rated as Superior.