2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX, available in NX 300 and NX 300 F Sport gasoline models, carried forward the brand's signature design elements. Its sharp exterior lines gave it a familiar look akin to the smaller Lexus UX and larger RX, with dimensions similar to the Toyota RAV4. Standard features included power-folding mirrors and 17-inch wheels, while the F Sport variant added a sportier touch with a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior, maintaining Lexus's high standards for material fit and finish. However, the interior design, particularly the center stack, felt dated compared to competitors like the 2022 Hyundai Tucson and 2021 Nissan Rogue.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular stance and athletic styling, reminiscent of its Charger and Challenger siblings. The Durango SRT Hellcat model, in particular, showcased a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, and LED headlamps. The SUV offered a variety of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colors. Inside, the Durango featured a new instrument panel and either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 system. The cabin's materials improved significantly over previous models, offering a range of upholstery options from cloth to Laguna leather. The Durango's dashboard updates aligned it with Dodge's muscle cars, providing a modern and sophisticated feel.

The 2021 Lexus NX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Its six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as the newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with a relatively quiet ride except under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance engine notes through the speakers. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available, allowing up to 50% torque transfer to the rear axle. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The NX offered three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—affecting throttle response and steering assist. Its towing capacity was 2,000 pounds, with a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered 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. 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 rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The Durango's steering was precise, though the chassis showed its age, especially on rough roads. The SRT models featured Performance Pages for track days, and the R/T model with the Tow N Go Package had a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for front passengers and decent legroom in the second row. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding option. However, cargo space was limited, with only 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology was available.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, offering seating for up to seven across three rows. The front and second-row seats were spacious, with a more accommodating third row than many competitors. The Durango provided 21 seat options, catering to various preferences. Cargo space was average for its class, and the SUV's fit and finish had improved significantly over previous models.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. However, the system was not user-friendly, with functions buried deep in menus. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Enform Remote app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 10.1-inch screen on higher trims running the Uconnect 5 system. This system offered faster performance, user profiles, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Durango also had a family entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD players. The TomTom navigation system was praised for its clarity and responsiveness.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including features like lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The IIHS gave it top "Good" scores, and the NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided additional safety services.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's standard safety features were limited to a rearview camera and federally mandated equipment. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The NHTSA gave it a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star rollover rating, but front crash-test ratings were pending.