2025 Dodge Durango vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model, featuring Luxury trim, showcased striking 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX's styling was more subdued than other Lexus models, offering a conservative look that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. The TX came in various models, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350, excluding the TX 550h+, which was expected to start over $75,000. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with FWD or AWD options. The test vehicle, priced at $67,869, included several packages and a dark Peppercorn interior, which felt too dim despite the panoramic sunroof. However, the interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

The 2025 Dodge Durango offered a range from a base GT model at around $43,000 to the SRT Hellcat at nearly $100,000. The test vehicle, an SRT Hellcat Premium with the Silver Bullet special edition package, had an MSRP of $115,315. This edition added a satin black hood, unique wheels, dark badges, and black exhaust tips, giving the Hellcat a more assertive look. Inside, the SRT Hellcat featured dark red premium Nappa leather seats and a suede headliner, with a leather and suede steering wheel wrap and forged carbon fiber trim. While the upgrades were appealing, the remaining plastic surfaces were less impressive for the price. The Durango's interior was solidly constructed, but the performance seats, though comfortable, lacked the support needed for spirited driving.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds (7.8 seconds with AWD). The performance was adequate, with a torque swell aiding speed. The EPA rated the TX 350 FWD at 23 mpg combined, but testing showed an average of 20.4 mpg. AWD, costing $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The TX 350's suspension provided a balanced ride, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt soft but manageable.

The 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat featured a 710-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering 645 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, reached a top speed of 180 mph, and towed up to 8,700 pounds. Despite its power, the Durango's fuel economy was poor, rated at 12/17/13 mpg city/highway/combined. The AWD system and electronic limited-slip rear differential helped manage power, while the adaptive damping suspension and Brembo brakes enhanced performance. The Durango drove like a taller Charger, with firm handling, responsive steering, and immediate braking. It excelled in mountainous terrain, offering outstanding grip and control.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury featured premium leather and suede upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain's chairs. The third-row seat was adult-friendly, with adequate leg support and visibility. Cargo space measured 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were plentiful but lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Dodge Durango excelled in comfort and utility. The SRT Hellcat Premium had heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, though they lacked support for spirited driving. The second-row captain's chairs offered good leg support, with a large center console providing ample storage. The third-row seat was accessible and comfortable for adults. Cargo space was 17.2 cubic feet, expanding to 85.1 cubic feet with seats folded. The power liftgate was conveniently placed for easy access.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured an optional Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were frustrating. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a digital assistant. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2025 Dodge Durango included a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a navigation system. The system supported dual-phone Bluetooth pairing and offered a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The SRT Hellcat featured SRT Performance Pages for tracking performance metrics. The voice recognition system worked well but required specificity.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered braking and steering assistance but was not always transparent. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and traffic jam assist. The system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Dodge Durango's safety features were basic, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Upgrades included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Durango earned a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and had concerns in IIHS tests. The adaptive cruise control reduced speed too much in curves, causing irritation.