2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to blend innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh pattern, complemented by the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array. The GV80's design was both elegant and bold, with big wheel arches and a rear that echoed the front's styling. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood, metal, and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a truly upscale environment.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular and athletic styling, consistent with Dodge's family of vehicles. The Durango's design was updated for 2021, 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 a choice of 11 exterior colors, allowing for personalization. Inside, the Durango's cabin was modernized with a new instrument panel and touchscreen options, while offering a range of upholstery choices from cloth to premium leathers, enhancing its appeal as a versatile family SUV.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. The V6 models came with advanced suspension systems and an electronic limited-slip differential, enhancing ride quality and handling. Fuel economy for the GV80 ranged from 18 to 25 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2021 Dodge Durango provided a broader range of engine choices, including a 3.6-liter V6 with up to 295 hp, a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 360 hp, a 392 HEMI V8 with 475 hp, and a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 delivering 710 hp in the SRT Hellcat. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, and the Durango offered both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The Durango excelled in towing capacity, with the R/T model capable of towing up to 8,700 pounds. While the Durango's performance was impressive, its chassis showed its age, particularly in handling and ride comfort.

The Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology and luxury, featuring a rotary gear selector, a circular multimedia controller, and capacitive touch buttons for the HVAC system. The GV80 offered comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, with power-adjustable second-row seats and a power-folding third row available on certain models. The interior was spacious and well-appointed, with luxury features like power window shades and three-zone climate control.

The Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, offering seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. The Durango's interior was spacious, with ample room for taller passengers in the front and second rows. The third row was more accessible and spacious than many competitors. The Durango offered 21 seat options, allowing for extensive customization. Cargo space was average for its class, but the Durango's fit and finish had improved significantly, making it a solid choice for families.

The Genesis GV80 featured a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 came with Genesis Connected Services, providing a range of remote and guidance features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, enhancing the driving experience.

The Dodge Durango's Uconnect 5 system was a significant upgrade, offering faster performance and greater personalization. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa connectivity, and over-the-air updates. The Durango also offered a family entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD players, available on higher trims. The TomTom navigation system was praised for its clarity and responsiveness, although a head-up display was not available.

The Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, adaptive cruise control with machine learning, and a range of collision-avoidance systems. While it had not yet been rated by safety organizations, Genesis aimed for top ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA. The GV80 also offered advanced parking assist features, enhancing its safety credentials.

The Dodge Durango's safety features were less comprehensive, with a rearview camera as the only standard active safety feature. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were available on higher trims. The Durango received a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star rollover rating from NHTSA, but its front crash ratings were pending.