Dodge Durango vs MINI Countryman

In production since 2011, the Durango exits stage left following the 2025 model year. For its final run down the Detroit assembly line, Dodge cuts the lineup in half, dropping the SXT, Citadel, and SRT 392 versions while retaining the GT, R/T, and SRT Hellcat. Dodge will sell the Durango in a series of special edition models, including an R/T 20th Anniversary Edition and three “Last Call” Hellcats: Silver Bullet, Hammerhead, and Brass Monkey.

Verdict: Though the Durango is now 15 years old, it has aged remarkably well and remains a likable if flawed midsize three-row SUV. However, time waits for no vehicle, and the Dodge Durango has reached the end of its road. For now.

Redesigned this year, the 2025 Countryman grows in size but remains a small crossover SUV. Expressively styled, infused with parent company BMW’s engineering and technology, and packed with cheeky Mini quirks, the Countryman is available in Cooper S All4, John Cooper Works All4, and electric SE All4 model series, each equipped with standard All4 all-wheel drive (AWD). It can comfortably hold rear-seat passengers, carries a competitive amount of cargo, and remains fun to drive.

Verdict: With prices starting at just over $40,000, the Mini Countryman sells in entry-level luxury territory. However, anyone expecting plush refinement will want to shop elsewhere because the Countryman is decidedly rough around the edges. We begrudgingly accept its quirks in exchange for its personality, but many people likely won’t.