2023 Dodge Durango vs 2024 Genesis GV80

The 2023 Dodge Durango, entering its 12th model year without a redesign, maintained a familiar yet attractive appearance. Dodge opted for clean, car-like styling, avoiding the trend of oversized grilles. The Durango's slim design, complemented by forward-leaning headlights and a large lower air intake, demonstrated that SUVs could have a commanding presence without massive grilles. At the rear, Dodge's signature "racetrack" taillights provided a distinctive look. The muscular SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models featured unique styling elements, such as a Viper-like hood with a functional center air inlet and heat extractors, but these were subtle. The SRT models also had unique wheels and a different front fascia, maintaining a similar shape to the standard version.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80 exuded luxury with its top-shelf Prestige Signature trim. The exterior, available in colors like Vik Black and Matterhorn White Matte, was paired with dark chrome trim and stylish 22-inch wheels. However, the wheel design was nearly invisible due to the black paint. Inside, the GV80's Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior was opulent, featuring diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic-finish accents. Ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen display underscored its flagship status. Despite its luxurious appeal, the Prestige Signature trim was not deemed more attractive than the regular Prestige model.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered a range of powertrains, starting with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower (295 hp with dual exhaust) and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine was standard on the SXT, GT, and Citadel trims. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8, standard on the R/T and optional on the Citadel, delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The SRT 392 model featured a 6.4-liter naturally-aspirated Hemi V8, generating 475 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The SRT Hellcat, with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8, produced 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The Durango's performance was impressive, with adaptive-damping suspension, Pirelli P Zero tires, and Brembo brakes enhancing its handling.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 2.5T featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The 3.5T model, with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, produced 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80 offered five driving modes and a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds. The 3.5T model included upgraded brakes and adaptive damping suspension, providing a rewarding driving experience. The GV80 was quiet and composed, with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its all-season tires. However, the steering was unremarkable, and seat comfort was an issue on long trips.

The 2023 Dodge Durango was available in seven-seat or six-seat configurations, with standard front bucket seats, a three-seat second-row bench, and a two-seat third-row bench on SXT, GT, and R/T models. The Citadel, SRT 392, and SRT Hellcat models featured second-row captain's chairs. The Durango offered competitive interior space, with headroom and legroom comparable to other midsize SUVs. Cargo space measured 17.2 cubic feet with all seats in place, 43.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.1 cubic feet behind the first row. The Durango excelled in towing capacity, with V6 models towing up to 6,200 pounds and V8 models up to 8,700 pounds.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature held only four people due to its second-row captain's chairs. The GV80 offered various interior materials, including artificial leather, real leather, and premium leather. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power hands-free liftgate. The test vehicle had a panoramic glass roof, triple-zone climate control, and ventilated front seats with massage programs. However, seat comfort was lacking, with the driver’s cushion becoming uncomfortable on long trips. Cargo space measured 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on SXT and GT models, while the Citadel and SRT models had a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity. Both used the Uconnect infotainment system, with the larger screen offering the current Uconnect 5 version. The SRT models included the Performance Pages app, providing performance information on the touchscreen. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on the SRT Hellcat model.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a round control dial on the center console for ease of use. The standard infotainment package included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The GV80 introduced a Wi-Fi hotspot in 2024 and featured wireless smartphone charging. The Prestige Signature added a second-row charging feature. The GV80's infotainment display was graphically pleasing, with an intuitive user interface. The digital key system allowed smartphone access, and most trims had a Lexicon premium sound system. The Prestige models included a head-up display showing blind-spot warnings.

The 2023 Dodge Durango received mixed results in IIHS crash tests, with top "Good" marks in moderate front overlap and side tests, but a "Marginal" score in the driver-side small overlap front test. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating, with five stars in the side crash test. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, while forward collision warning and other advanced features were limited to higher trims.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 came with numerous advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The Blind-Spot View Monitor displayed video feeds in the digital instrument panel, while the HUD showed blind-spot warnings. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in the frontal-impact test.