What Ford SUV Should Be Compared to the 2023 Dodge Durango?
The Dodge Durango has been the biggest SUV in the Dodge lineup ever since the nameplate returned for the 2011 model year. However, there’s a little confusion over what segment the 2023 Durango competes in. So lets use two Ford SUVs as an example to see which compares best to the Durango.
Is the Dodge Durango a full-size SUV?
According to the Durango FAQ page on Dodge’s website, the Durango is “a powerful full-size SUV with three rows of seating and impressive strength and capability for towing and hauling.” However, the actual dimensions of the Durango say otherwise.
The Dodge Durango is 201 inches long, 76 inches wide, and 72-73 inches tall, depending on the configuration. That puts it squarely in the midsize SUV class with dimensions similar to the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevy Traverse. So, why does Dodge call it a full-size SUV? The reason probably has to do with the defunct Dodge Journey.
When the current-generation Durango came out in 2011, the Nitro was the brand’s compact SUV, and the Journey was a bigger midsize SUV with 3-row seating. Since the Durango is bigger than the Journey, Dodge classified it as a full-size SUV. Since the Journey was discontinued in 2020, the full-size classification for the Dodge Durango doesn’t make much sense anymore.
Which Ford SUV is the best comparison?
Ford has seven unique SUVs in its lineup, so which one most closely compares to the Dodge Durango? The midsize Ford Explorer is 199 inches long, and the full-size Expedition is 210 inches long. The Explorer starts at $36,760, and the Expedition begins at $55,725.
Since the Durango is 201 inches long and starts at $40,140, the Explorer is a closer competitor to the Durango.
Even though neither of these Ford SUVs is available with a V8 (the Durango is available with multiple), the Explorer has a sporty ST variant, and the Expedition doesn’t. The Explorer ST actually makes more power and torque than the V8-powered Durango R/T, but it can’t match the muscle of the SRT 392 or SRT Hellcat variants of the Durango.
Performance is one of the calling cards of the Dodge Durango, but the Explorer can be an exciting family SUV too.
As for the bigger Expedition, Dodge has nothing that competes in that class. However, the Jeep Wagoneer that launched for the 2022 model year is a member of the Stellantis family that’s undoubtedly a full-size SUV.
Like the Expedition, the Wagoneer is a truck-like SUV with similar dimensions, a massive interior, and two wheelbases available. The Wagoneer starts at $59,495, but it’s a bit more of a premium SUV than the Ford and comes standard with 4-wheel drive. The fancier Grand Wagoneer goes toe-to-toe with the Lincoln Navigator, the luxury version of the Expedition.
Is the 2023 Durango a good SUV?
The Dodge Durango has been in the same generation for over a decade, making it a bit dated compared to more modern rivals, including the Ford Explorer. However, the Durango is a unique option in its class with macho styling and the performance to match, thanks to its multiple V8 options.
