2021 Dodge Durango vs 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a vehicle that revealed its charm over time. Its design was not ostentatious but rather focused on functionality, with subtle styling choices that enhanced its off-road capabilities. The dished hood improved forward visibility, making it easier to navigate challenging terrains. The fenders, slightly bulging from the smooth sides, provided space for wheel travel and indicated the vehicle's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels. Inside, the Land Cruiser approached luxury with its black perforated leather-trimmed seating and a functional, albeit plain, dashboard. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system was surrounded by a plethora of buttons and switches, offering control over various vehicle functions. The interior was comfortable and well-executed, though it lacked a bit of excitement.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular and athletic styling, reminiscent of its Charger and Challenger siblings. The 2021 model year brought revisions, particularly evident in the SRT Hellcat model, which featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, and LED headlamps. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and exterior colors, allowing for personalization. Inside, the cabin received updates with a new instrument panel and the introduction of the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The interior materials ranged from cloth to premium leather, with contrast stitching and unique seat belt colors adding a funky touch. The dashboard updates aligned the Durango with Dodge's muscle car aesthetic, offering a modern and sophisticated appearance. The Durango's versatility was evident in its range of trim levels, catering to different preferences and needs.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was renowned for its confidence and capability, powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, achieving an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined. The Land Cruiser's off-road prowess was supported by its suspension and chassis geometry, with approach, departure, and breakover angles of 32, 24, and 21 degrees, respectively. It had 8.9 inches of ground clearance and a fording depth of 27.55 inches. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select control knob enhanced its off-road capabilities, while Active Traction Control and Crawl Control ensured secure travel over any terrain. Despite its size, the Land Cruiser offered a serene and relaxing driving experience, with controlled body roll and excellent visibility.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, 5.7-liter HEMI V8, 392 HEMI V8, and a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8. The V6 produced up to 295 horsepower, while the 5.7-liter V8 delivered 360 hp. The 392 HEMI V8 offered 475 hp, and the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 in the SRT Hellcat produced a staggering 710 hp. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The Durango's steering was precise, inspiring confidence, though the chassis showed its age on rough roads. The SRT models featured Brembo brakes for excellent stopping power. The Durango R/T's Tow N Go Package allowed for towing up to 8,700 pounds, with stable handling and a 50/50 AWD torque distribution. The SRT Performance Pages provided detailed performance information, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser balanced its dual role as a commuter and overlander with features like standard skid plates, tow hooks, and mudguards. The standard model offered a three-row configuration with heated second-row seats and a split-folding third row. The interior boasted four-zone climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box in the center console. The Land Cruiser could tow up to 8,100 pounds and featured a split tailgate for easy loading and unloading.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, offering seating for up to seven across three rows. The front and second-row seats provided ample space, while the third row was more spacious than many competitors. The Durango offered 21 seat options, allowing for customization. Cargo space was average for its class, and the fit and finish had improved significantly. The Durango's midsize packaging made it a versatile and athletic family vehicle.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a Qi-compatible charging station and Toyota Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation. The sound system included 14 JBL speakers, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM radio, but lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 9-inch touchscreen was functional but small compared to competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera provided selectable views for navigating challenging terrain.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 system on higher trims. The Uconnect 5 system was faster and more personalized, with features like Amazon Alexa connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. The family entertainment system included a Blu-ray and DVD player with two 9-inch screens. The TomTom navigation system was user-friendly, though a head-up display would have enhanced its usability.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but its robust body structure and Toyota Safety Sense P suite provided advanced driver assistance features. It included 10 airbags, active headrests, and a range of safety systems like stability control and Trailer Sway Control. Safety Connect offered emergency assistance and collision notification.

The 2021 Dodge Durango fell short in safety compared to rivals, with a rearview camera as its only standard active safety feature. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. NHTSA gave the Durango a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star rollover rating, but front crash testing ratings were pending.