2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX, with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Its base pricing ranged from $32,190 to $42,490, excluding destination charges. The Telluride S was considered a great value, but many opted for the top-tier SX trim, which could be enhanced with a Prestige package, adding luxury features like Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition package, new for 2021, offered a blacked-out aesthetic with unique design elements. The Telluride's styling was widely praised, both inside and out, with only minor criticisms regarding interior color options and some plastic materials.

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 new SRT Hellcat model, which featured a cold-air scoop and other aggressive design elements. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and came in 11 exterior colors with six interior schemes. Inside, the Durango's cabin was updated with a new instrument panel and touchscreen options, enhancing its modern appeal. The Durango's interior offered a range of upholstery choices, from cloth to premium leathers, with unique stitching and seat belt color options.

The 2021 Kia Telluride was powered by a single 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It featured Kia's Drive Mode Select with options like Snow, Eco, and Sport. The optional AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for improved traction, complemented by eight inches of ground clearance. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride. It offered commendable handling with brake-based Torque Vectoring Cornering Control. The AWD Telluride achieved an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in combined driving, with real-world testing averaging 20.5 mpg.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered four engine choices: 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 V8 in the SRT Hellcat boasted 710 hp. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, with RWD standard and AWD optional. The Durango's steering was precise, but its chassis showed its age, with a suspension that transmitted bumps to the cabin. The Durango's towing capacity reached 8,700 pounds with the Tow N Go Package.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered heating and ventilation, with easy access to the third row. The Telluride provided ample storage solutions, including smartphone holders and a smart hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space measured 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered seating for up to seven, with spacious front and second-row seats. The third row was more accommodating than many rivals, with easy access. The Durango provided average cargo space for its class, with a focus on functionality. Dodge's improvements in fit and finish were evident, enhancing the Durango's appeal as a family hauler.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims included a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. Kia's UVO Link offered connected services, including remote engine start and climate control. The Telluride's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system available. Features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode enhanced convenience.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's higher trims featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the new Uconnect 5 system, offering faster performance and personalization. The system included Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Durango's family entertainment system added Blu-ray and DVD capabilities. The TomTom navigation system was praised for its clarity and responsiveness.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came standard with eight advanced safety technologies, including blind-spot warning and automatic emergency braking. Highway Drive Assist offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's standard safety features were limited to a rearview camera. Optional features included adaptive cruise control 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-test ratings were pending.