2023 Dodge Durango vs 2023 Lexus GX
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Lexus GX is 6.0 out of 10, while the 2023 Dodge Durango scores 7.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Dodge Durango is the better choice, offering a more modern infotainment system, a range of powerful engines, and a spacious interior.
Choose the 2023 Dodge Durango if:
- You want a range of powerful engine options, including a supercharged V8.
- You need a spacious and comfortable interior with competitive headroom and legroom.
- You require high towing capacity for heavy loads.
Choose the 2023 Lexus GX if:
- You prioritize off-road capability with a real 4WD system and advanced off-road features.
- You prefer physical controls with hard buttons over touchscreens.
- You value a V8 engine's sound and driving experience.
Overview | |
MSRP$58,125 | MSRP$39,990 |
Average price$60,439 | Average price$37,958 |
Listings352 | Listings2209 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews6.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2023 Lexus GX Reviews SummaryThanks to the rise of car-based crossovers, today’s body-on-frame SUVs appeal to buyers with specific use-cases in mind: towing and driving off-road. Luxury SUVs like the 2023 Lexus GX appeal to an even narrower cross-section of buyers: those who want to tow or drive off-road, and do either in style and comfort. With a V8 engine as its trump card, the GX remains compelling amid its small pool of competition, but due to a combination of age and a lack of innovation, Lexus’s only real off-road SUV has fallen out of favor for anyone not enamored by a V8 growl. | |
2023 Dodge Durango Reviews SummaryThe evolution of the Dodge Durango exemplifies how the Stellantis brand has evolved from a mainstream competitor to Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, and Toyota into a niche brand emphasizing muscle-car attitude. The Durango was Dodge's first modern SUV, arriving for the 1998 model year as the brand's entry into the midsize SUV segment. The current, third-generation Durango dates all the way back to the 2011 model year. But, as Dodge has found with the Challenger coupe and Charger sedan, a vehicle's lifespan can be greatly extended with an added dose of horsepower. The 2023 Dodge Durango lineup starts with the base SXT trim level and moves up through the GT, R/T, Citadel, and SRT 392. Changes for 2023 include standard heated front seats, optional forward collision warning for the Durango SXT, and some new colors (bringing the total color palette to eight). However, the big news for 2023 is the return of the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat and its devilish supercharged V8 engine. The Hellcat was previously available only for the 2021 model year as a limited edition, but now it's a regular production model. That being the case, the Hellcat ended up as our test vehicle for this Dodge Durango review. | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine4.6L 301 hp V8 | Engine3.6L 293 hp V6 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainRWD |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower293 hp @ 6400 rpm |
MPG City15 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway19 | MPG Highway26 |
Engine | |
Engine Name4.6L 301 hp V8 | Engine Name3.6L 293 hp V6 |
Torque329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm | Torque260 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower293 hp @ 6400 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainRWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City15 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway19 | MPG Highway26 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Navigation SystemStandard | Navigation System |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/Moonroof |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall3 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space11.6 cu ft | Cargo Space17.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight5126 lbs | Curb Weight4750 lbs |
Height74.2 in | Height72.1 in |
Length192.1 in | Length200.8 in |
Width74.2 in | Width85.5 in |
Wheelbase109.8 in | Wheelbase119.8 in |
Maximum Payload1315 lbs | Maximum Payload1400 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity6500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity6200 lbs |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Lexus GX is 6.0 out of 10, while the 2023 Dodge Durango scores 7.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Dodge Durango is the better choice, offering a more modern infotainment system, a range of powerful engines, and a spacious interior.
Choose the 2023 Dodge Durango if:
Shop Now- You want a range of powerful engine options, including a supercharged V8.
- You need a spacious and comfortable interior with competitive headroom and legroom.
- You require high towing capacity for heavy loads.
Choose the 2023 Lexus GX if:
Shop Now- You prioritize off-road capability with a real 4WD system and advanced off-road features.
- You prefer physical controls with hard buttons over touchscreens.
- You value a V8 engine's sound and driving experience.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $58,125 | $39,990 |
Average price | $60,439 | $37,958 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.8 | 4.8 |
Expert reviews | 6.0 out of 10Read full review | 7.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Thanks to the rise of car-based crossovers, today’s body-on-frame SUVs appeal to buyers with specific use-cases in mind: towing and driving off-road. Luxury SUVs like the 2023 Lexus GX appeal to an even narrower cross-section of buyers: those who want to tow or drive off-road, and do either in style and comfort. With a V8 engine as its trump card, the GX remains compelling amid its small pool of competition, but due to a combination of age and a lack of innovation, Lexus’s only real off-road SUV has fallen out of favor for anyone not enamored by a V8 growl. | The evolution of the Dodge Durango exemplifies how the Stellantis brand has evolved from a mainstream competitor to Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, and Toyota into a niche brand emphasizing muscle-car attitude. The Durango was Dodge's first modern SUV, arriving for the 1998 model year as the brand's entry into the midsize SUV segment. The current, third-generation Durango dates all the way back to the 2011 model year. But, as Dodge has found with the Challenger coupe and Charger sedan, a vehicle's lifespan can be greatly extended with an added dose of horsepower. The 2023 Dodge Durango lineup starts with the base SXT trim level and moves up through the GT, R/T, Citadel, and SRT 392. Changes for 2023 include standard heated front seats, optional forward collision warning for the Durango SXT, and some new colors (bringing the total color palette to eight). However, the big news for 2023 is the return of the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat and its devilish supercharged V8 engine. The Hellcat was previously available only for the 2021 model year as a limited edition, but now it's a regular production model. That being the case, the Hellcat ended up as our test vehicle for this Dodge Durango review. |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 4.6L 301 hp V8 | 3.6L 293 hp V6 |
Drive Train | AWD | RWD |
Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
Horsepower | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm | 293 hp @ 6400 rpm |
MPG City | 15 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 19 | 26 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 4.6L 301 hp V8 | 3.6L 293 hp V6 |
Torque | 329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm | 260 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Horsepower | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm | 293 hp @ 6400 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 15 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 19 | 26 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 3 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 11.6 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 5126 lbs | 4750 lbs |
Height | 74.2 in | 72.1 in |
Length | 192.1 in | 200.8 in |
Width | 74.2 in | 85.5 in |
Wheelbase | 109.8 in | 119.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1315 lbs | 1400 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 6500 lbs | 6200 lbs |
The 2023 Lexus GX, with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, certainly had a commanding visual presence. Its front end appeared ready to dominate the road, framed by large headlights that accentuated its distinctive face. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three paint colors: Obsidian, Eminent White Pearl, and Nori Green Pearl. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's dimensions seemed to shrink when viewed from the side, with a short 109.8-inch wheelbase and minimal overhangs, giving it a rugged, off-road-ready look. The interior, however, was a mix of luxury and disappointment, with a notable amount of plastic material that belied its high price tag. Yet, it still offered heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery.
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, forward-leaning headlights, and large lower air intake gave it a strong presence. At the rear, Dodge's signature "racetrack" taillights added a distinctive touch. The muscular SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models featured subtle yet unique styling elements, including a Viper-like hood and unique wheels. The Durango also offered various appearance packages, such as the Blacktop Package and Hemi Orange appearance package, allowing for customization. The interior, while not as distinctive as the exterior, provided a comfortable and well-equipped space, with options for Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated seats.
The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, which delivered a linear rise in power and noise as the accelerator was pressed. The 4.6-liter V8 produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the GX's V8 offered a satisfying driving experience for some. However, its 6,500-pound towing capacity and fuel economy of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined were less impressive compared to modern SUVs. The GX's weight made it roll through corners, but its predictable and controllable handling, strong brakes, and communicative road feel were notable. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and standard 4WD system enhanced its off-road capabilities.
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. 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 Hemi V8 with 475 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The SRT Hellcat model took performance to another level with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8, producing 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The Durango's size didn't hinder its acceleration, and its adaptive-damping suspension, Pirelli P Zero performance tires, and Brembo brakes made it easy to manage.
The 2023 Lexus GX offered ample cubby space, with a deep center console bin, a handy space ahead of the shifter, and conveniently placed cupholders. However, it lacked modern USB-C ports, featuring only USB-A ports. The GX's physical controls, with hard buttons, were a blessing for those who preferred them over touchscreens. The center console lid's sliding mechanisms allowed for adjustable armrests, and the second row provided comfortable seating with optional captain's chairs. The third row, however, was too tight for regular use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded.
The 2023 Dodge Durango was available in seven-seat or six-seat configurations, with front bucket seats, a second-row bench or captain's chairs, and a third-row bench. The Durango offered competitive interior space, with headroom and legroom comparable to other midsize SUVs. However, it fell short in cargo space, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.1 cubic feet behind the first row. Small-item storage was generous, with a large wireless charging pad and well-placed USB ports. The Durango's towing capacity was impressive, with V6 models towing up to 6,200 pounds and V8 models up to 8,700 pounds.
The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. The GX included three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium stereo. However, the infotainment system felt dated compared to other Lexus models, with lagging touchscreen response and less crisp graphics. The GX excelled in off-road capability, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, traction control, stability control, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. The Off-Road Package added further enhancements for rugged terrain.
The 2023 Dodge Durango offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on SXT and GT models, while the Citadel and SRT models featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The larger screen used the current Uconnect 5 system, which was responsive and easy to use. The SRT models included the Performance Pages app, providing performance information and additional gauges. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on the SRT Hellcat model.
The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it was originally engineered for the 2010 model year. Despite this, it included advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams.
The 2023 Dodge Durango received mixed results from the IIHS, with top "Good" marks in some 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 and four stars in the frontal crash test. RWD models received four stars in the rollover test, while AWD models got three stars. The Durango offered limited standard driver-assist tech, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert standard on all trims, but forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking were only standard on the Citadel.
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