The 2022 Dodge Durango and 2022 Ford Explorer are close rivals when comparing full-size SUVs. The Dodge Durango may be the better option if you want more towing capacity, available horsepower, and ride quality. However, the Explorer has its strengths as well. Let’s find out how the 2022 Explorer stacks up against the 2022 Dodge Durango. And remember our dealership to find the best deals on new Dodge, new Ram, and even pre-owned vehicles in Lakeville.
2022 Durango vs. Explorer: Exterior Features
The 2022 Dodge Durango has seven trim levels: SXT, GT, GT Plus, RT, Citadel, RT Plus, and SRT 392. Its broad stance, vibrant colors, and optional performance hood and racing stripes grab attention at any speed. Signature daytime running lights and LED low/high-beam headlights increase visibility. Dodge-exclusive LED Racetrack taillights make your SUV stand out from the crowd. LED front turn signals are an option, as are the automatic high-beam headlights that monitor traffic and lighting conditions. The Dodge Durango also has a variety of optional wheel designs, including stunning 20-inch polished aluminum rims.
On the other hand, the 2022 Ford Explorer is available in eight trim levels: Explorer (Base), XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. Standard features vary based on the trim level, with wheel sizes available up to 21 inches. Starting with the Base model, automatic high beams and automatic LED low-beam headlights are standard features. In addition, other available options are body-color door handles, a body-color liftgate spoiler, LED fog lights, and LED taillights.
2022 Durango vs. Explorer: Dimensions and Space
Overall, the Durango wins on style points as it has a more sporty, aggressive stance when compared to the Ford Explorer. This is due partly to a slightly higher ground clearance: 8.1 inches instead of 7.9 on the Ford. It also measures 200.8 inches in length and has a 119.8-inch wheelbase. The length and wheelbase of the 2022 Ford Explorer are 198.8 inches and 119.1 inches, respectively. The Durango’s wider dimensions provide you with a more solid ride.
2022 Durango vs. Explorer: Engine and Performance
The Durango offers three engine options. A 3.6-liter V-6 engine generates 293 to 295 horsepower, depending on trim level, and 260 lb-ft of torque. Also available is a 5.7-liter V-8 engine with 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The final choice is a 6.4-liter V-8 with 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. All 2022 Durango models come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
A turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque is standard on most 2022 Ford Explorer models. A 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 with 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque is found on higher trims. The hybrid powertrain’s famous 3.3-liter V-6 and electric motor combine to produce 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board.
The 2022 Ford Explorer can achieve 28 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg in town, compared to the Durango’s estimated 26 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in town. Thanks to its larger V-8 engine, the Durango should easily climb steep inclines and tow up to 8,700 lbs. This is a considerable improvement over the Ford Explorer’s 5,600-lb maximum towing capacity.
2022 Durango vs. Explorer: Interior Features
The three rows of the 2022 Dodge Durango’s interior are spacious, offering ample cargo space and user-friendly tech features. Comfortable seating surfaces made of Tri-Diamond perforated leather and ambient lighting are available options. No matter which trim level you choose, you’ll get an expertly constructed central console, plus a rotary gear shift dial.
Both vehicles come standard with power steering, power door locks, keyless entry, variable-speed intermittent wipers, and steering wheel controls. In addition, the Explorer has considerable cargo room, with 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row and 87.8 cubic feet when folding all available seats. The Durango boasts a maximum load space capacity of 85.1 cubic feet. The cargo area measures 17.2 cubic feet, only one cubic foot behind the Ford.
2022 Durango vs. Explorer: Infotainment Features
Inside the Durango, you’re surrounded by a driver-focused cockpit with available leather-trimmed upholstery and performance-inspired design. Options like a wireless charging pad, a 10.1-inch touch screen, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system ensure that technology-minded drivers aren’t missing out. The HD touch screen is part of the optional Uconnect 5C NAV, which gives you access to a wide range of vehicle features, such as SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad.
The Explorer’s standard infotainment system is uncomplicated and easy to use, with clear graphics and quick reactions. The optional larger-sized interface, though, does not make things as easy. The 10.1-inch vertical screen is impressive, but it performs some tasks poorly. Standard infotainment features include a six-speaker audio system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, an 8-inch touch screen, voice recognition, two USB ports, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
The Durango allows you to include a Harman Kardon premium audio system, which puts 19 speakers at your disposal. This high-quality system brings you the finest auditory experience, whether listening to streaming music, the radio, or simply taking a hands-free call. In contrast, the optional premium factory-installed audio system for the 2022 Ford Explorer has 12 speakers.
2022 Durango vs. Explorer: Safety Features
On the Dodge Durango, the basic driver-aid systems include rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. These features are also standard on the Explorer, along with driver-attention monitoring, front collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. In addition, convenient features such as automatic high beams and rear parking sensors are included with every 2022 Explorer model. Ford MyKey, another standard feature, lets parents limit the vehicle speed and entertainment system volume when a secondary key fob is being used to drive the vehicle.
In the end, the Dodge Durango might be the better choice over the Explorer when you consider the overall features and tow rating, but the Explorer is nicely equipped, too. If you’re still undecided, why not see how they drive? Browse our new Dodge and Ram inventory online to discover which models we have available. Stop by our dealership any time to arrange a test drive for a Dodge Durango or to see any available Explorer models from our pre-owned lot.
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