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Whats the difference between Durango GT and SXT?

In short, the Durango GT is the sport-oriented mid-trim with extra features and styling, while the SXT is the entry-level model with fewer amenities. Both trims share the same core engine lineup and available all-wheel drive, but the GT emphasizes sport styling, upgraded interior touches, and enhanced tech to justify a higher price.

Where the Durango GT fits in the lineup

Understanding the lineage helps explain what you get with each trim. The SXT serves as the Durango’s base model, while the GT sits just above it with a focus on sport-inspired styling and additional equipment. Year-to-year features can vary, but the GT is consistently positioned as the more premium, performance-oriented option.

Position in the lineup

The SXT is the entry-level Durango trim, offering essential comfort, technology, and safety features with practical practicality in mind.

The GT is the sportier mid-trim, adding design cues, upgraded materials, and extra equipment to appeal to buyers seeking more refinement and presence on the road.

Both trims can be paired with all-wheel drive in many model years, and both share the same basic powertrain family, with the GT not typically offering a more powerful engine than the SXT.

Conclusion: If you want a budget-friendly family SUV with the basics, SXT fits the bill. If you prefer sportier styling and more standard equipment, GT is the natural upgrade within the Durango lineup.

Powertrain and performance

Power and handling for the Durango have typically centered on a strong V6 foundation, with the GT emphasizing tuned dynamics and options rather than a different engine. Buyers should expect the most common configurations to be shared across both trims, with the GT leaning toward sport-oriented tuning where offered.

Engines and drive options

Engine family: Most recent Durango SXT and GT models use the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with mild-hybrid assist (eTorque) in many markets, producing around 290–300 horsepower depending on year and configuration.

Drivetrain choices: Both trims typically offer rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with AWD becoming common across the lineup for enhanced traction in various conditions.

V8 availability: Historically, higher-performance or older trims offered V8 options (such as a 5.7L Hemi) or special variants, but on current SXT and GT configurations, a V8 is not the default or standard option; availability varies by model year and region.

Conclusion: For most buyers today, both SXT and GT rely on the same V6 powertrain family, with the GT focusing on handling feel and equipment rather than a bigger engine. If you specifically want a V8, you’ll need to look at higher or older trims or different model years where offered.

Features, interior and technology

The biggest gaps between SXT and GT typically appear in comfort, materials, and tech. The GT is designed to feel more premium and sport-oriented inside and out, while the SXT provides the essentials at a lower price point.

Interior comfort and tech

Seating: GT models generally offer upgraded materials (often leather or leatherette) and heated front seats, along with more generous power adjustments for the driver; SXT usually uses cloth seating with fewer power adjustments.

Infotainment: GT often ships with a larger touchscreen and enhanced audio options, with more standard tech features versus the SXT, which focuses on the basics with optional upgrades.

Convenience features: GT commonly includes additional comfort conveniences (such as upgraded climate control or wireless charging) that may be optional or absent on the SXT, depending on year and package selections.

Conclusion: If interior refinement and a more engaging tech package matter, GT usually delivers more, while SXT provides the essentials with straightforward usability and potentially lower ownership costs.

Exterior styling and wheels

Exterior appearance is a clear differentiator. The GT is styled to convey sportiness, while the SXT emphasizes a more traditional SUV look with emphasis on value and practicality.

Design cues

Wheels and tires: GT typically features larger, sport-oriented wheels (often around 20 inches) and a sportier stance; SXT tends to ride on smaller, more conservative wheels (commonly around 18 inches).

Grille and trim accents: GT includes sport-inspired accents and badges to signal its position, whereas SXT maintains a more restrained exterior profile.

Lighting and details: GT may offer upgraded lighting or trim details as part of standard or optional packages, while SXT sticks with the baseline exterior setup.

Conclusion: Buy the GT if you want a more aggressive look and upgraded wheel options; choose the SXT if you prefer a simpler, more understated appearance with potential cost savings.

Which should you choose?

Deciding between the Durango GT and SXT comes down to budget, desired features, and how much you value sport styling and extra equipment. If you want a value-focused family SUV with essential comfort and technology, the SXT is a solid choice. If you’re chasing a sportier vibe, more interior upgrades, and more standard features for daily driving, the GT makes a stronger case.

Summary

The Durango GT and SXT share the same essential DNA, with the GT positioned as the sportier, better-equipped mid-trim and the SXT serving as the approachable entry point. Engine options are broadly similar across recent years, while the GT emphasizes styling, interior upgrades, and tech enhancements. In short: GT = sportier look and more equipment; SXT = budget-friendly basics with practical practicality. Your decision should hinge on how much you value those sport cues and extra features versus keeping costs down.

Are GT and SXT the same?

One of the key differences regarding interior features between the 2023 Dodge Challenger SXT vs. GT trims is the upholstery. The Challenger SXT wears standard Houndstooth cloth seating surfaces, while the Challenger GT boasts sporty Houndstooth cloth performance seating.

What is the difference between Durango GT and SXT?

The main differences between the Durango SXT and GT are the GT's sportier exterior and more premium interior features, such as larger wheels and a dual exhaust, while the SXT is the value-oriented base model. Both trims typically use the same 3.6-liter V6 engine, but the GT has a dual-outlet exhaust that gives it a slight horsepower increase (295 hp vs. 293 hp). The GT also adds features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power liftgate, which are not standard on the SXT.

This video explains the differences between the Durango GT Plus and R/T models: 57sOur Ride LifeYouTube · Jul 27, 2022

Feature	Durango SXT	Durango GT
Engine	3.6L Pentastar V6 (293 hp)	3.6L Pentastar V6 (295 hp)
Exterior	Standard features, 18-inch wheels (on some models)	Sportier appearance with larger 20-inch wheels and dual exhaust tips
Interior	Standard Uconnect system with 8.4-inch touchscreen	Adds heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and a power liftgate
Seating	Standard third-row seating	Includes three-row seating and optional second-row captain's chairs
Towing Capacity	Up to 6,200 pounds	Up to 6,200 pounds

Performance: The GT has a dual-outlet exhaust, giving it a slight horsepower advantage (295 vs. 293).
Style: The GT is visually distinct with larger 20-inch wheels and a sportier dual exhaust.
Convenience: The GT adds practical features like a remote start system, a power liftgate, and heated front seats, making it more convenient for daily use.
Value: The SXT is the more value-oriented option, providing the essential features and the same engine for a lower starting price.

What does GT mean on a Durango?

"Durango GT" refers to a specific trim level of the Dodge Durango SUV, where GT stands for Grand Touring. The GT trim blends sporty styling with comfort and convenience features, offering a balance of performance and practicality for everyday driving and long distances.
GT trim features and meaning

Grand Touring: This designation signifies a vehicle designed for comfortable, long-distance travel while still providing a spirited driving experience.
Sporty appearance: The GT trim includes sportier design elements compared to lower trims, such as a performance hood, dual exhaust outlets, and a black grille.
Enhanced comfort: It comes equipped with comfort features like heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a heated steering wheel.
Technology: The GT includes a larger infotainment touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a premium sound system, like the 10.1-inch Uconnect system with an Alpine audio system.
Performance: The standard engine is a 295-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, and the GT can be equipped with paddle shifters for a more engaged driving experience.
Optional enhancements: Many versions of the GT trim can be upgraded with additional features through packages like the GT Plus, which adds leather seating, more advanced safety features, and other premium amenities.

Is SXt or GT faster?

No, a GT is not inherently faster than an SXT, as they typically use the same base engine and have the same acceleration times. While some Charger GT models may have a slight horsepower and torque advantage over some SXT models, features on the GT like "sport mode" provide a more responsive and faster-feeling driving experience through adjustments to the suspension, steering, and shift points.

Same core powertrain: In most cases, the Challenger SXT and GT trims use the same 3.6L V6 engine with identical horsepower and torque ratings, resulting in similar acceleration times and top speeds.
GT has performance features: The GT trim includes performance-oriented features that make it feel faster. These include sport mode adjustments to the suspension, steering, and transmission, which provide a more aggressive throttle response and quicker shift times.
GT might have a slight power advantage: Some specific model years may show the GT with slightly more horsepower and torque than the SXT, which could make it technically faster, though the real-world difference is minimal.
GT has a heavier option: The GT often comes with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, which adds weight and can slow it down compared to an RWD SXT.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.