What is the Ford equivalent to the Durango?
The Ford Explorer is the closest Ford equivalent to the Dodge Durango, offering similar three-row seating, a mid-size SUV footprint, and competitive powertrains. This article examines why the Explorer is seen as Ford’s counterpart to the Durango and how the two compare in performance, interior, technology, and pricing.
Market position and target buyers
In the crowded field of three-row, mid-size SUVs, the Dodge Durango and Ford Explorer sit near each other for families and active buyers who want flexible seating and practical cargo space without moving up to a full-size SUV. The Explorer tends to emphasize technology, efficiency, and everyday usability, while the Durango emphasizes engine variety and performance-oriented trims.
Performance and capability
Powertrains
Engine options shape how each SUV handles daily driving and tougher tasks.
- Explorer: standard turbocharged four-cylinder and additional options include a more powerful EcoBoost V6 and a hybrid powertrain, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency.
- Durango: offers a broader range of engines, from a 3.6-liter V6 to a 5.7-liter Hemi V8, with a high-performance 6.4-liter V8 available in the Durango SRT.
In short, the Explorer prioritizes efficiency and modern turbo/hybrid power, while the Durango provides a wider engine lineup that includes robust V8 options for enthusiasts and heavy payloads.
Towing and payload
Tow capacity is a common point of comparison for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Durango can achieve higher maximum towing figures, especially with the V8 options (and the Durango SRT variant with the 6.4L Hemi delivers the strongest tow capability in the lineup).
- Explorer typically tops out lower, with towing suitable for most family trailers and boats but generally not reaching the high end of the Durango’s V8 configurations.
Bottom line: if you need maximum towing, the Durango’s V8s are a strong point; if you want efficient daily driving with solid towing for lighter loads, the Explorer is well-suited.
Interior, seating, and practicality
Seating configurations
Both models offer three rows, but space and usability vary by design and trim.
- Explorer: commonly provides three rows with flexible second and third-row space, plus family-friendly cargo versatility and modern cabin design.
- Durango: also seats seven, with a cabin that emphasizes a more rugged, performance-oriented feel in several trims and good third-row practicality.
In practice, the Explorer tends to feel more polished for daily use and long trips, while the Durango leans into a sportier interior vibe with strong rear-seat utility in its higher trims.
Cargo and day-to-day usability
Rear cargo, cargo-organization features, and access to all seats influence everyday practicality.
- Explorer generally offers competitive cargo space behind the third row and user-friendly fold-flat seats for expanded capacity.
- Durango emphasizes cargo flexibility with a design that accommodates family gear and equipment, especially in configurations prioritizing passenger space or cargo room depending on the trim.
Overall, both vehicles aim to balance passenger space with usable cargo room, but the Explorer’s layout and materials tend to skew toward modern refinement, while the Durango emphasizes rugged versatility.
Technology, safety, and features
Infotainment and connectivity
Infotainment systems reflect each brand’s philosophy and era of design.
- Explorer: ships with Ford’s SYNC 4 interface, strong smartphone integration, and optional driver-assistance features, with OTA updates and a wide ecosystem of connected services.
- Durango: uses Uconnect 5 in recent years, with integrated navigation, smartphone integration, and a suite of available connected services tailored to Dodge/Chrysler buyers.
Both offer comprehensive safety packages, though the naming and emphasis differ: Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite versus Dodge/Chrysler safety and driver-assistance options bundled with Uconnect.
Trims, pricing, and value
Pricing and trim structure help buyers compare value and features across the two models.
- Explorer trims typically include XLT, Limited, ST, Platinum, and off-road-oriented Timberline, with a focus on technology and comfort features across the range.
- Durango trims span from more value-oriented GT to performance-focused RT and SRT, with Citadel and other premium variants adding upscale features and more powerful engines.
Prices vary by year and regional market, but both models compete in the same general segment, with the Durango often carrying a premium in higher-performance trims and the Explorer offering strong base-value and technology packages.
Summary and takeaways
The Ford Explorer serves as the closest Ford counterpart to the Dodge Durango in the mid-size, three-row SUV segment. The Explorer emphasizes efficiency, modern technology, and daily practicality, while the Durango broadens the engine lineup to include strong V8 options for higher performance and towing. For buyers prioritizing maximum power and sportiness, the Durango’s higher-end variants are appealing; for those prioritizing technology, efficiency, and everyday usability, the Explorer remains a robust and competitive choice within the same class.
Final takeaway
In the landscape of three-row, mid-size SUVs, the Ford Explorer is the practical, tech-forward alternative to the Dodge Durango, with each model appealing to different priorities—power and towing in the Durango, efficiency and refinement in the Explorer.
