Dodge Durango vs Chevrolet Trax

The oldest new vehicle on sale in 2026 is the Dodge Durango. While a 15-year age statement is a positive attribute for Scotch whisky, on a car it is a repellant. Save for minor alterations, the Durango has been sold exactly as it is since 2010, and its Mercedes ML-Class chassis is older still. Yet this three-row SUV has all the power, most of the technology, and a lot of the practicality that buyers expect in a modern midsize SUV for not a lot of money.

Verdict: For buyers who like V8s and analog controls, the Durango is the next and only stop.

The Trax is the cheapest new car Chevy sells in the United States. It takes the place of compact sedans and hatchbacks in the Bowtie brand’s lineup, while competing with entry-level crossover SUVs such as the Hyundai Venue and the Nissan Kicks. The current Trax was introduced for the 2024 model year, and for 2026 the only changes are two new exterior color options. White Sands is available with Activ and RS models, while Apex Red is available with RS, LS, and LT models.

Verdict: Blending elements of compact cars and crossover SUVs, the Trax hits a sweet spot of utility and affordability. It’s also pleasant to drive and offers impressive infotainment tech, but a lack of solid safety ratings and the unavailability of all-wheel drive are the tradeoffs.