2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 BMW X3

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received several updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 refined BMW's small SUV formula, offering an exterior and interior presence reminiscent of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while its interior featured the cold, mechanical styling typical of BMW, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The 2021 X3 came in various trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M available separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with numerous options for added luxury and convenience.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular stance and athletic styling, consistent with its family members, the Charger and Challenger. The third generation, introduced in 2011, saw a significant update in 2021, particularly with the new SRT Hellcat model, which featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, LED headlamps, and a rear spoiler. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and exterior colors, with a cabin that included a new instrument panel and either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The interior became increasingly premium with higher trims, offering various upholstery options and contrast stitching for a unique flavor. The Durango's dashboard updates aligned it with the Charger and Challenger muscle cars, providing a modern appearance.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive, providing solid performance for city and highway driving. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or nearly 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking a performance edge, the M40i offered a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, while the X3 M performance model boasted 473 horsepower, catering to drivers with a need for speed and family space.

The 2021 Dodge Durango provided four engine options: a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, a 392 HEMI V8, and a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional or mandatory on certain models. The V6, standard in the SXT, GT, and Citadel trims, produced 293 or 295 horsepower, depending on the exhaust configuration. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-liter V8 with 360 horsepower, while the SRT 392 trim offered a 392 HEMI V8 with 475 horsepower. The top-tier SRT Hellcat model boasted a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 with 710 horsepower, providing smooth and controlled power delivery. The Durango's steering inspired confidence, though its chassis showed its age, with a reactionary suspension on rural roads and a struggle with track performance. The Hellcat's Brembo brakes offered excellent stopping power, and the R/T's Tow N Go Package demonstrated impressive towing capabilities.

The 2021 BMW X3 excelled in cargo space, offering up to 62.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the best in the small luxury SUV segment. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3 provided ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, with a commanding driving position. The interior featured real buttons and dials to complement the touchscreen, making it user-friendly for drivers and passengers alike.

The 2021 Dodge Durango, designed as a versatile family hauler, offered comfortable seating and ample storage space. It could seat up to seven across three rows, with spacious front and second-row seats and a more accommodating third row than many competitors. The Durango's cargo space was average for its class, functioning as expected. Dodge's improvements in fit and finish were evident, with the Durango standing out compared to earlier models like the Journey and Grand Caravan.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. The system combined touch operation with an iDrive dial, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system, and gesture control for basic functions.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on the SXT and GT trims, with higher trims receiving a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the new Uconnect 5 system. Uconnect 5 was significantly faster than its predecessor, offering user profiles, connected services, dual Bluetooth connections, Amazon Alexa, TomTom navigation, SiriusXM with 360L, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. The system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. The Durango also offered a family entertainment system with a Blu-ray and DVD player and two 9-inch screens, available on higher trims. The gauge cluster, however, made it difficult to read the exact speed due to its design, and a head-up display would have enhanced usability.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Dodge Durango lagged behind its rivals in safety features. It came standard with a rearview camera and passive safety features like airbags and electronic stability control. Depending on the trim level or package, buyers could add adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, rear-cross traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and forward-collision warning. The Durango received a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star rollover rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but its front crash testing ratings were not yet available.