2025 Dodge Durango vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, though the M Sport treatment was less favored, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, enhancing its look despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, with options for Sport and M Sport trims. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a full suite of equipment packages, priced at $88,075. Updates for 2024 included a BMW Curved Display and modernized interior controls, while retaining high-quality materials.

The 2025 Dodge Durango ranged from $43,000 for a base GT to nearly $100,000 for the SRT Hellcat. The test model, an SRT Hellcat Premium with the Silver Bullet special edition, featured Triple Nickel paint and a $115,315 price tag. The Silver Bullet package added a satin black hood, unique wheels, and dark badges, enhancing its aggressive look. Inside, the SRT Hellcat had dark red Nappa leather seats and a suede headliner, but some plastic surfaces detracted from its premium feel. Despite this, the Durango was solidly constructed, offering a comfortable and spacious interior.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted a new mild-hybrid system, enhancing electric range and power. It featured a 19.2 kWh battery and a 7.4 kW charging rate, offering 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in hybrid mode. With 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, it accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in efficiency, achieving 38.8 mpg on a 95.5-mile test drive. Its adaptive suspension and quick steering provided a smooth ride, while Sport mode delivered impressive handling and braking performance.

The 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat packed a 710-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8 with 645 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and towing up to 8,700 pounds. Despite its power, it returned a low 12.2 mpg on a test loop. The Durango featured AWD, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a high-performance exhaust. Its adaptive suspension and Brembo brakes offered excellent handling, while the supercharger whine and exhaust roar added excitement. The Durango performed well on challenging roads, rivaling sportier SUVs.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered seating for five and a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet. Its split liftgate design provided convenience but required stretching to access deep cargo. The interior featured Sensafin artificial leather, sport seats, and a Climate Comfort Package with heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, unlike the larger X7.

The 2025 Dodge Durango excelled in space and comfort, with heated and ventilated Nappa leather front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs provided good support, though legroom was limited. A large center console offered ample storage, and rear passengers had access to climate controls and charging ports. The third row accommodated adults comfortably, with easy access and thoughtful design. The Durango’s cargo space ranged from 17.2 to 85.1 cubic feet, with a conveniently placed power liftgate button.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen running iDrive 8.5. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon sound system. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition, often providing inaccurate directions. The head-up display and augmented video navigation were highlights, but the reduction in physical controls was less favorable.

The 2025 Dodge Durango came with a Uconnect 5 system, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and wireless smartphone integration. It offered SiriusXM, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The voice recognition system worked well but required specificity. SRT Performance Pages allowed tracking of performance metrics, adding a sporty touch to the family SUV.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in certain conditions but occasionally engaging brakes unexpectedly. Its adaptive cruise control and lane-centering worked well, though the system sometimes misinterpreted obstacles. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS but missed an award due to headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.

The 2025 Dodge Durango’s safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional upgrades added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Durango earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a concerning small overlap frontal-impact test result from the IIHS.