2025 Dodge Durango vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Dodge Durango offered a range of models, starting from approximately $43,000 for the base GT with a V6 engine and rear-wheel drive, up to nearly $100,000 for the SRT Hellcat with a supercharged V8 engine and all-wheel drive. The SRT Hellcat Premium model, enhanced with the Silver Bullet special edition package, featured Triple Nickel paint and additional visual upgrades like a satin black hood and dark badges, bringing its MSRP to $115,315. Inside, the Durango SRT Hellcat maintained a subdued yet premium feel with dark red Nappa leather seats and a suede headliner, though some plastic surfaces detracted from its luxury appeal.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three variants: the 3.3 Turbo, the 3.3 Turbo S, and the PHEV, with pricing ranging from $39,575 to $59,480. The 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus model, with its Soul Red paint, was priced at $51,450. The CX-90's exterior boasted lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. Inside, the cabin featured polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, creating an upscale environment. However, some ergonomic issues, like a confusing electronic shifter and non-touchscreen infotainment, detracted from the overall experience.

The 2025 Dodge Durango offered a simplified lineup with three engine options: a 295-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 for the GT, a 360-hp 5.7-liter V8 for the R/T, and a 710-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8 for the SRT Hellcat. All models used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with AWD standard on the R/T and SRT Hellcat. The SRT Hellcat's engine delivered 645 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 180 mph. Despite its power, the Durango's fuel economy was poor, rated at 12/17/13 mpg city/highway/combined. The SUV's performance was enhanced by a competition-tuned suspension, performance steering, and Brembo brakes, making it feel track-ready.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's 3.3 Turbo model featured a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine producing 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The 3.3 Turbo S variant offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an option for 340 hp using premium gas. Power was delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and it offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance. Fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed 21.3 mpg. While the CX-90 excelled in ride and handling, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior.

The 2025 Dodge Durango excelled in form and function, offering a roomy and comfortable interior with thoughtful features. The SRT Hellcat Premium model had heated and ventilated front seats with Nappa leather, though they lacked secure support during spirited driving. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable but positioned low, with adequate legroom for taller passengers. The third row was accessible through a generous pass-through, providing enough space for adults. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.1 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, in 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim, featured Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats. However, the climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating with adjustable armrests. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults. Cargo space was 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were limited, with an emphasis on style over practicality.

The 2025 Dodge Durango came equipped with a Uconnect 5 infotainment system featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a native navigation system. Additional features included SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, Dodge Connect, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The SRT Hellcat model boasted a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and SRT Performance Pages for tracking performance metrics. The system was user-friendly, though voice recognition required specific prompts.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment system was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring a control knob. The voice recognition system was inconsistent, and a new Google Built-in infotainment system was anticipated for future models. The CX-90 included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display, though the technology felt less advanced compared to rivals.

The 2025 Dodge Durango's safety features were limited, with standard equipment including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional upgrades included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Durango received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a three-star rollover resistance rating. The IIHS had not fully evaluated the Durango, but its performance in the small overlap frontal-impact test was concerning.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA for the PHEV model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added advanced features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though some features, like speed reduction in curves, could be irritating.