Dodge Durango vs. Ford Explorer

The four Durango engines supply outputs that range from 295 horsepower to a beastly 710 horsepower in the SRT Hellcat AWD model. Even if you don’t opt for that Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8, you’ll still have up to 475 horsepower. In the Explorer, you’ll have three options that offer between 300 and 400 horsepower.

This power has a direct impact on capability. As such, the Durango can tow up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped, so feel free to hitch up that travel trailer for your next road trip. The Explorer has a towing capacity of 5,600 pounds, which is decent, but its capacity of 3,000 fewer pounds may mean you’ll have to leave some of your towable toys at home.

The Durango also offers some noteworthy performance features like available paddle shifters that allow you to upshift and downshift, when necessary, without the need for a clutch pedal.

Moreover, the Durango offers a nearly perfect 52/48 weight distribution. That means your vehicle makes sure to keep its four wheels planted firmly on the ground you’re traveling on.

Although at first glance, these two SUVS appear to be quite similar in size, there are some differences worth mentioning. Namely, the 2023 Durango has a wheelbase measurement of 119.8 inches and a length of 201 inches. Meanwhile, the 2023 Ford Explorer has a 119.1-inch wheelbase and is 198.8 inches long.

The fact that the Durango is a bit larger in these areas allows you to experience a more stable ride when taking tight turns.

The Dodge Durango and the Ford Explorer provide the benefit of choice. They each offer seven trim levels to find the perfect iteration for you and your crew. With similar interior dimensions, everyone on board will be comfortable in either model.

However, only the Dodge Durango makes the most of that interior space. It provides the flexibility to configure the cabin in over 50 different ways. So, no matter who or what you bring along, the 2023 Durango can accommodate.

Both SUVs seat up to seven and provide many similar amenities when it comes to their interiors. For example, they each have 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seats with 4-way lumbar support. Your copilot will have a 4-way manually adjustable seat, and everyone on board will benefit from having plenty of cup holders.

That said, only the Durango comes standard with heated front seats. This feature takes the edge off those chilly early mornings or cold nights and can aid in relaxing your muscles after a long day of work or play. You can get heated seats in the Explorer, too, but you’ll have to upgrade to a higher trim.

The Dodge Durango and the Ford Explorer both offer a 10.1-inch touchscreen through their Uconnect® 5 and SYNC® 3 systems respectively. Both models also come standard with six speakers as well as Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.

Is enjoying a quality listening experience important while you’re making your way from Point A to Point B? If so, then you’ll be pleased to know the Durango is available with the Harman Kardon® Premium Audio System that places 19 speakers around the cabin. Unfortunately, the most available speakers you’ll find in the Ford Explorer is 12, so you’ll have a less immersive experience.

Of course, the most important technology is related to those features that provide an extra layer of security for everyone on board. Fortunately, the Durango and the Explorer are well-equipped to help protect you and your passengers.

Both models offer brand-specific versions of the following driver-assistance features:

• Forward Collision Warning
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Path Detection
• LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist

Using a variety of sensors, cameras, and software, these SUVs ensure you remain informed and in control when you’re behind the wheel.