2021 Dodge Durango vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular and athletic styling, reminiscent of its Charger and Challenger siblings. Despite its third-generation design dating back to 2011, the Durango received updates for 2021, particularly evident in the SRT Hellcat model. This version featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, LED headlamps, and a rear spoiler, enhancing its aggressive look. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colors, with six interior color schemes. Inside, the 2021 model boasted a modernized instrument panel and a choice between an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen running the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The interior materials ranged from cloth to premium leather, with options for contrast stitching and unique seat belt colors, providing a personalized touch.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second-generation design, which had been in place since 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia's exterior design remained tasteful, with a modest grille and elegant wheel arches. Its dimensions were substantial, offering a commanding presence on the road. Inside, the Sequoia's design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. However, the interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability. The Nightshade Special Edition added a contemporary touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its visual appeal.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, a 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 model boasted an impressive 710 hp. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The Durango's performance was robust, with smooth acceleration and precise steering. However, its chassis showed its age, with a suspension that transmitted bumps to the cabin. The Durango's towing capacity reached 8,700 pounds, and the SRT models featured SRT Performance Pages for track enthusiasts.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a single 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck-based construction provided a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with competent off-road capabilities. Its fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway for both RWD and 4WD models. The Sequoia's turning circle and sightlines made it manageable in urban settings, though its height required caution in low-clearance areas.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, offering comfortable seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. The front and second-row seats provided ample space, while the optional third row was more spacious than many competitors. The Durango's cargo space was average for its class, with a focus on functionality. Dodge offered 21 seat options, allowing buyers to customize their interior. The Durango's fit and finish had improved over the years, contributing to its reputation for quality.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with roomy seating across all three rows. Three-zone climate control and a power moonroof added to the interior's appeal. The Sequoia's cargo compartment offered 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expandable to 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded. With both the second and third rows folded, the Sequoia provided a generous 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The interior featured ample storage options, including a center console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims, with the latter running the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system. This system was significantly faster than its predecessor and offered features like user profiles, connected services, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Durango also offered a family entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD players. The TomTom navigation system was praised for its clarity and responsiveness, though the lack of a head-up display was noted.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard, along with WiFi connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package. While the Sequoia's technology lagged behind competitors, Toyota updated its exterior lighting to LED and included standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's safety features were limited compared to rivals. It came standard with a rearview camera and passive safety features like airbags and electronic stability control. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The NHTSA awarded the Durango a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star rollover rating, but front crash testing ratings were not available.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense P, which included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The Sequoia also featured a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota's STAR safety system. While crash-test ratings were not available, the Sequoia's safety features were designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants.