2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX models, showcased a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, giving it a unique yet familiar appearance. Despite its sporty F Sport Black Line enhancements, including a larger mesh grille and dark-finish 18-inch wheels, the NX's design had not evolved significantly over the years. The interior, once considered radical, had become more commonplace, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials like wood trim. The Black Line package added features like an F Sport heated steering wheel and NuLuxe upholstery, but the overall material quality felt more akin to mainstream brands.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular stance and athletic styling, aligning with Dodge's Charger and Challenger models. The new SRT Hellcat model featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, and LED headlamps, enhancing its aggressive look. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colors, with six interior color schemes. Inside, the updated instrument panel and Uconnect 5 infotainment system modernized the cabin, while the availability of leather and suede upholstery added a touch of sophistication. The Durango's design strategy catered to a wide range of buyers, offering both performance and luxury options.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX Hybrid was not a performance vehicle, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph. The hybrid system prioritized fuel efficiency over excitement, with a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering lacked responsiveness, and the drive modes offered minimal impact on performance.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines, from a 3.6-liter V6 with up to 295 horsepower to a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing 710 horsepower in the SRT Hellcat model. The Durango's performance was impressive, with smooth acceleration and responsive steering. However, the chassis showed its age, with a suspension that transmitted bumps to the cabin. The Durango excelled in towing capacity, with the R/T model capable of towing up to 8,700 pounds. The SRT models included performance features like SRT Performance Pages, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid offered limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats provided good support, and features like 10-way power adjustment and heated seats were available. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars hindered rear visibility, while cargo space was limited to 16.8 cubic feet with the rear seats up. The NX Hybrid included a power-folding second row and power liftgate, but these were not standard.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, with seating for up to seven and spacious front and second-row seats. The optional third row was more accommodating than many competitors, and the Durango offered 21 seat options. Cargo space was average for its class, but the Durango's fit and finish had improved significantly. The midsize packaging provided versatility, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, the system felt dated, with text-heavy menus and outdated graphics. The base audio system was underwhelming, lacking the quality expected from a luxury brand.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured the new Uconnect 5 system on higher trims, offering faster performance and greater personalization. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa connectivity, and over-the-air updates. The family entertainment system added Blu-ray and DVD capabilities, enhancing the Durango's appeal. The TomTom navigation system was user-friendly, though the lack of a head-up display was a drawback.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids. The only notable omission was a 360-degree camera system.

The 2021 Dodge Durango lagged behind in safety features, with only a rearview camera standard. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, but many competitors offered these as standard. The NHTSA awarded the Durango a five-star side crash rating, but other ratings were pending.