2018 Dodge Durango vs 2018 Ford Explorer

Features & Specs

City Fuel Economy (mpg)

19

17

Highway Fuel Economy (mpg)

26

24

Cargo Volume to Seat 1 (ft³)

84.5

80.7

Maximum Trailering Capacity (lbs)

6,200

2,000

2018 Dodge Durango vs 2018 Ford Explorer near Wallingford, CT

Are you searching for a new SUV that performs and handles exceptionally well? The 2018 Dodge Durango is here and it has excellent engine options and top-notch features. Another great option is the Ford Explorer which has made some updates for the new year. Compare the two in the following breakdown.

2018 Dodge Durango Power & Handling

For Dodge, power is at the heart of its vehicles. This is true even for the family size Dodge Durango SUV. The base SXT, GT, and Citadel models come equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that has 293 hp, and 260 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All models, with the exception of the SRT, feature rear-wheel drive with the option of selecting all-wheel drive. The R/T amps up to a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 360 hp, 390 lb-ft. At the top trim, the new SRT offers the most horsepower with a 6.4-liter V8 engine and 475 hp, 470 lb-ft. The SRT also includes performance-tuned steering and an adaptive suspension. If looking for a vehicle with great towing ability, the Durango pulls up to 6,200 lbs behind it.

2018 Ford Explorer Power & Handling

For 2018, there are three engines available on the Explorer. The first is found on the base and XLT trims, which is a non-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. A second option that also can pair with these trims is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 280 hp, 310 lb-ft. Both engines can come with either two or four-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. A higher end trim in the form of the Sport, increases power significantly with a 3.5-liter engine. This engine is a turbocharged V6 with 365 hp and 350 lb-ft. Compared with the Durango's three engines, the power is lacking in the Explorer.

2018 Dodge Durango Features & Design

For 2018, Dodge has made desirable features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 7-inch touchscreen interface and a rearview camera standard on every model. The Durango has five trim levels: SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T and SRT. The SXT has 18-inch alloy wheels, a load-leveling rear suspension, heated mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, three-zone climate control, and cloth upholstery. The Citadel comes with xenon headlights, automatic high beams, automatic wipers, upgraded brakes, front parking sensors, roof-rail crossbars, a sunroof, a cargo cover, and upgraded leather upholstery. The Durango allows for individual personalization by allowing buyers to purchase features on higher trim levels as optional packages on the lower trims. For example, Technology, Safety, and Convenience packages can all be added to lower trims to increase their value.

2018 Ford Explorer Features & Design

The five trim levels available for the Ford Explorer are: the Base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum. The base has 18-inch wheels, cruise control, and cloth upholstery. The XLT and Limited add satellite radio, a sports appearance package, and heated seats. The Sport is likely to be the most popular choice for buyers as it comes with the turbocharged engine. However, it is important to note that there will be a significant price difference between the Base and Sport trims. The top-tier Platinum trim has a panoramic sunroof, automated parking system, and premium leather upholstery. A few downsides of the Explorer are that it has comparatively small cargo space and a tight third-row seat.

Conclusions

Both vehicles are good options for a new crossover. The Ford Explorer lacks the engine power and towing capacity of the Durango. For this reason, and because of its exceptional standard technology features, we recommend choosing the Dodge Durango as your next car. To test drive one, head to our dealership today.

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