2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Dodge Durango

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this with underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires, making it seem ready for any challenge. Inside, however, the 4Runner showed its age with outdated technology and styling. The analog instrument panel and small infotainment screen felt like relics, and the interior materials, while durable, leaned more towards practicality than luxury.

In contrast, the 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat offered a more modern and aggressive aesthetic. The Silver Bullet special edition added visual flair with a satin black hood and dark accents. Inside, the Durango combined luxury with performance, featuring dark red Nappa leather seats and carbon fiber trim. Despite its high price, some plastic surfaces detracted from the premium feel. The Durango's interior was well-constructed, offering a comfortable and supportive ride, though it lacked the secure hold needed for spirited driving.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were competitive, the five-speed automatic transmission limited its responsiveness and fuel efficiency compared to rivals like the Bronco and Wrangler. The TRD Pro model came with standard 4WD and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on-road performance suffered, with slow acceleration and noticeable body roll. The soft suspension, while beneficial for off-roading, resulted in a bouncy ride on highways.

The 2025 Dodge Durango offered a range of powerful engines, with the SRT Hellcat boasting a 710-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8. This engine delivered 645 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Durango to accelerate to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and tow up to 8,700 pounds. Despite its power, the Durango's fuel economy was poor, rated at 12/17/13 mpg. The SUV featured a full-time AWD system, adaptive damping suspension, and performance brakes, providing impressive handling and control. The Durango felt track-ready, with outstanding grip and braking capabilities.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was practical but dated. It offered ample space for front passengers, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel's reach lacking. The second row provided good legroom, but headroom was limited. The 4Runner could accommodate up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats stowed, though accessing this space required manual effort. Unique features included a sliding rear window and party speakers, but the lack of a powered liftgate was a drawback.

The 2025 Dodge Durango excelled in comfort and functionality. The SRT Hellcat featured heated and ventilated front seats with Nappa leather, though they lacked secure support during aggressive driving. The second-row captain’s chairs were comfortable, and the third row offered adequate space for adults. The Durango provided 85.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded, and the power liftgate made access easy. The interior was equipped with numerous storage options and charging ports, enhancing its practicality.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system was basic, with an eight-inch touchscreen offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TRD Pro model included a 15-speaker JBL audio system, but road noise often overshadowed its quality. Off-road controls were present but required familiarization due to unclear labeling.

The 2025 Dodge Durango featured a Uconnect 5 system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The system supported multiple devices and included performance tracking features. While voice recognition was effective, it occasionally required precise commands. The SRT Performance Pages added a unique touch, allowing drivers to monitor various performance metrics.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA and some concerning results from IIHS. It included standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and collision warnings, though some alerts were overly sensitive.

The 2025 Dodge Durango's safety features were basic, with standard collision warnings and blind-spot monitoring. Optional upgrades included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. NHTSA awarded it four stars overall, but IIHS results were less favorable, particularly in frontal-impact tests.