2023 Dodge Durango vs 2023 Lexus GX

2023 Lexus GX
2023 Lexus GX
$58,125MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2023 Dodge Durango
2023 Dodge Durango
$39,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2023 Lexus GX
$58,125MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Dodge Durango
$39,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

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.

Overview

MSRP

$58,125

MSRP

$39,990

Average price

$60,439

Average price

$37,958

Listings

352

Listings

2209
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

6.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10
Pros
  • Commanding driving position
  • Off-road capability
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Cramped third row
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Powerful V8 engines available
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy (V8 engines)

2023 Lexus GX Reviews 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.

2023 Dodge Durango Reviews Summary

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.

No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

4.6L 301 hp V8

Engine

3.6L 293 hp V6

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

301 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

293 hp @ 6400 rpm

MPG City

15

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

19

MPG Highway

26
2023 Lexus GX
2023 Lexus GX
$58,125MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Dodge Durango
2023 Dodge Durango
$39,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Lexus GX
$58,125MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Dodge Durango
$39,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

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.

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 10

Read full review

7.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Commanding driving position
  • Off-road capability
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Cramped third row
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Powerful V8 engines available
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy (V8 engines)
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
Look and feel
2023 Lexus GX
7/10
2023 Dodge Durango
9/10

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.

Performance
2023 Lexus GX
6/10
2023 Dodge Durango
9/10

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.

Form and function
2023 Lexus GX
6/10
2023 Dodge Durango
8/10

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.

Technology
2023 Lexus GX
6/10
2023 Dodge Durango
8/10

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.

Safety
2023 Lexus GX
6/10
2023 Dodge Durango
4/10

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.

Cost Effectiveness
2023 Lexus GX
5/10
2023 Dodge Durango
5/10
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