What SUV is comparable to Durango?
Direct rivals include Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse.
Beyond that, the Dodge Durango competes in a crowded three-row midsize SUV market where buyers weigh interior space, powertrain options, towing capability, and overall value. This article surveys the main contenders and how they stack up in key areas, helping shoppers decide which model best fits their needs.
Rivals in the three-row midsize SUV segment
The following models are the mainstream choices buyers compare with the Durango for seating, space, and everyday practicality.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee L — three-row configuration, strong on-road manners, and a range of engines including a capable V8 option in higher trims; towing capacity generally in the 6,200–7,200 lb range depending on configuration.
- Hyundai Palisade — spacious interior for up to eight, refined ride, value-focused pricing, and a max tow around 5,000 lbs.
- Kia Telluride — closely related to the Palisade in size and space, high interior quality, strong value, with a max tow around 5,000 lbs.
- Ford Explorer — versatile engine lineup (turbo four, V6, and hybrid), roomy cabin, and towing typically in the 5,000–5,600 lb range depending on configuration.
- Honda Pilot — dependable family-focused option with ample interior space and up to about 5,000 lb towing in applicable trims.
- Toyota Grand Highlander — newer, larger three-row option with efficient and capable powertrains, generally targeting similar interior space and around 5,000 lb towing in many configurations.
- Chevrolet Traverse — roomy three-row with strong cargo capacity and a competitive V6 engine, typically towing around 5,000 lb when properly equipped.
In brief, these rivals span rugged capability, refined interiors, and strong family practicality, covering the same general purpose as the Durango across different trims and powertrains.
Engine options and towing profiles
Because the Durango is notable for offering a V8 in some trims and strong towing figures, buyers often compare how rivals stack up in power and trailer capability. The following snapshot highlights typical configurations and what they mean for towing and performance.
- Durango (V8 option) — traditional strength for towing, with up to about 7,400 lbs when properly equipped.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee L — strong all-around performance, with high-tow capability when equipped (roughly up to 7,200 lbs in top configurations).
- Hyundai Palisade / Kia Telluride — emphasize daily usability and comfort with tow ratings around 5,000 lbs.
- Ford Explorer — broad powertrain lineup including turbo engines and hybrid, with typical towing around 5,000–5,600 lbs depending on setup.
- Honda Pilot / Toyota Grand Highlander / Chevrolet Traverse — balance efficiency and space, generally offering up to about 5,000 lb towing with appropriate packages.
These engine and towing snapshots illustrate the key differences between the Durango and its rivals, helping buyers decide whether power or efficiency is paramount in their purchase.
How to choose among comparable SUVs
Choosing between the Durango and its rivals depends on what you value most: rugged towing and V8 capability (Durango or Grand Cherokee L), interior space and family-friendly features (Palisade, Telluride, Traverse, Pilot), or a balanced all-around package (Explorer, Grand Highlander). Pricing, warranty, technology features, and ongoing reliability also play critical roles in the decision.
For prospective buyers, test drives across several models in this class can reveal differences in ride quality, second- and third-row comfort, cargo practicality, and user-friendly technology. A careful comparison of towing requirements, maintenance costs, and fuel economy will also help determine the best fit.
Summary
The Dodge Durango sits in a crowded segment with strong competition from Jeep, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Honda, Toyota, and Chevrolet. If you prize max towing and performance, the Durango and Grand Cherokee L stand out. If interior space, comfort, and value drive your decision, the Palisade, Telluride, Traverse, and Pilot are compelling options. For a versatile lineup and varied powertrains, the Explorer and Grand Highlander offer broad choices. In short, there are several solid, comparable SUVs to the Durango, each with its own strengths depending on your priorities.
