2025 Dodge Durango vs 2025 Ford Explorer

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its sleek design evolution, maintaining the rear-wheel-drive platform that enhanced its balanced proportions. The refreshed model featured a restyled front end, giving it a wider and more rugged appearance. New LED taillights and a trim strip connecting them added to its modern look. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements with upgraded materials and design, making it more competitive in its segment. Ford streamlined the trim levels to four, ranging from the base Active to the performance-tuned ST, with prices starting at $39,755.

The 2025 Dodge Durango, particularly in the SRT Hellcat Premium trim, showcased a bold design with the Silver Bullet special edition package. This included a satin black hood and dark badges, enhancing its visual attitude. Inside, the Durango featured dark red Nappa leather seats and a suede headliner, though some plastic surfaces detracted from its premium feel. The Durango's design aimed to balance comfort with a sporty edge, appealing to those seeking a more expressive SUV.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 400-horsepower twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive. The Explorer's driving modes included Eco, Normal, and Sport, among others. The ST-Line test vehicle averaged 23.8 mpg, showcasing its efficiency. The Explorer's handling was firm yet comfortable, with commendable grip from its Pirelli tires.

The 2025 Dodge Durango simplified its lineup with three engine options: a 295-horsepower V6, a 360-horsepower V8, and a 710-horsepower supercharged V8 in the SRT Hellcat. The Hellcat's performance was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph. However, its fuel economy was poor, averaging 12.2 mpg. The Durango's AWD system and adaptive suspension provided excellent handling, making it feel track-ready despite its size.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with massage functions and heated second-row seats. Cargo space was competitive, with up to 85.8 cubic feet available. The Explorer's interior was practical, with useful storage solutions and a wireless smartphone charger.

The 2025 Dodge Durango offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with heated and ventilated front seats in Nappa leather. The second-row captain’s chairs provided good leg support, and the third row was surprisingly accommodating for adults. Cargo space was ample, with a maximum of 85.1 cubic feet. The Durango's interior was well-equipped, with rear climate controls and multiple charging ports.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured the new Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Google Built-in. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The B&O sound system varied by trim, with the Platinum offering 14 speakers. The system was user-friendly, though some features like video games seemed unnecessary.

The 2025 Dodge Durango came with Uconnect 5, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration. The Harman Kardon audio system in the SRT Hellcat provided excellent sound quality. The system included SRT Performance Pages for tracking performance metrics, adding a unique touch to the Durango's tech offerings.

The 2025 Ford Explorer included Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims added BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer had not been fully rated by NHTSA, but it earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings.

The 2025 Dodge Durango's safety features were basic, with forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Optional upgrades included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Durango received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with a concerning three-star rollover rating. Its performance in IIHS tests was also lacking.