2021 Chevrolet Traverse vs Dodge Durango

Three-row SUVs have grown in popularity over the last decade. The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse ranks among the best models in the segment. Families especially love its relaxing accommodations. Another great option is the 2021 Dodge Durango. When it comes to sheer performance, no other vehicle in the class rivals the Durango. In this head-to-head clash, we’ll find out which one of these SUVs is the better choice.

The Powertrain

Every new 2021 Chevrolet Traverse comes equipped with the same powertrain. A 3.6-liter, V6 engine gives the Traverse plenty of muscle for everyday tasks. It's rated by Chevy to crank out 310 horsepower and 266-lb-ft of torque. Mated to the engine is a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Expect the Durango’s base V6 engine to offer a similar level of performance. It develops a satisfactory 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is found on all Durango trims. While the Traverse can clock 0-60 mph time 6.7 seconds, the noticeably heavier Durango takes around 7.4 seconds to reach 60 mph.

The Traverse exhibits impressive performance, but Dodge has upped the ante with its Durango model. Equipped with a smart 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine boasting 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, this hefty heavyweight can match speeds with even lighter vehicles - that is until you factor in the 6.4 liter SRT 392 which will rocket to 60 mph in an astonishing 4.4 seconds thanks to 475 horses beneath the hood!

Step into 2021 with the awe-inspiring Durango SRT Hellcat. This incredible SUV is a powerhouse, boasting an engine capable of producing 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque - enough to set any speed demon's pulse racing! Thanks to its supercharged Hemi V8 , this beast will rocket from 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds – leaving other three row SUVs wallowing in their dust!

The Dodge Durango is capable of delivering more overall driving fun. Aside from offering some monstrous V8 engines, SRT Durango models also come equipped with an active exhaust system. This upgrade gives the SUV the soundtrack of a true muscle truck.

The Chevrolet Traverse offers a smooth, composed driving experience that anyone can handle. With upgrades to the V6 Durango trims, like an adaptive suspension and specialized AWD system included in their higher performance SRT models, even sharper handling awaits those looking for something extra out of their ride. Whether you prefer cruising with ease or taking some turns on twisty roads at maximum speed - the Durango has got you covered!

As expected, both of these SUVs can be equipped with an AWD system. However, the Durango R/T’s 4X4 system includes a two-speed transfer case. This feature further optimizes traction on muddy off-road trails. Adventure seekers can also take advantage of the Durango’s extra ground clearance.

When it comes to towing capabilities, the Durango wins this category. Even the V6-equipped Durango is rated to handle up to a 6,200-pound load. However, high-output SRT Durango models can confidently tow more than 8,500 pounds. This puts the Durango right in line with many of today’s light-duty pickup trucks. By comparison, Chevy lists the new Traverse with a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds.

Expect the Traverse and the V6-equipped Durango to offer similar fuel economy. According to the EPA, the Traverse can return a reasonable 18 mpg town/27 mpg freeway. This is right on par with the Durango’s fuel economy rating of 19 mpg town/26 mpg freeway.

To no surprise, the V8-powered Durango trims guzzle down fuel at a much faster rate. Drivers can expect the Durango R/T to deliver 14 mpg town/22 mpg freeway. On the other hand, fuel economy estimates for the more powerful Durango SRT 392 stand at 13 mpg town/19 mpg freeway. Folks who choose the supercharged Durango SRT Hellcat can anticipate getting only 12 mpg town/17 mpg freeway. Premium fuel is also recommended for the Durango’s available Hemi V8 engines.

Both of these SUVs have an effective anti-lock braking system. When braking from 60 mph, it takes the Durango around 125 feet to come to a complete halt. Upgraded Brembo performance brakes enabled the Durango SRT to record an even more impressive 60-0 mph stopping distance of 110 feet. On the other hand, tests show the Chevrolet Traverse takes around 118 feet to come to a stop.

Like the new Durango, the Traverse is deemed to be a reliable vehicle. J.D. Power gives the Durango a 4.0 out of 5.0 rating in predicted reliability, which is a very good. By comparison, the Traverse receives an average predicted reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0.

When shopping for your next vehicle, look no further. Rest assured with our unbeatable warranty package that offers guaranteed engine and transmission protection up to 60000 miles plus three years of bumper-to-bumper coverage! With us in charge, you can cruise the open roads worry free knowing that we've got your back every mile along the road.

Drivability

Hit the road in luxurious-level comfort with 2021's Chevrolet Traverse and Dodge Durango! Whether you need a cushy ride for an extended journey or feel like taking it up a notch to get your adrenaline going, these cars have got you covered. With adjustable stiffness settings on select models of the Durango SRT, driving is about to become even more exciting than ever before.

Durango interior noise levels are relatively low. Dodge added a good amount of sound-dampening materials. However, the SUV’s available performance tires do create a bit more road noise. The Traverse was named one of the quietest SUVs in the class. Even the base Traverse benefits from standard active noise cancellation technology. When traveling at a speed of 70 mph, there’s barely a hint of wind noise heard inside the cabin.

Some Durango owners have complained about this SUV’s outward visibility. When changing from one lane to the next, drivers often encounter rear blind spots. On the bright side, forward visibility is good. Outward viability behind the wheel of the Traverse is similar. Rear corner visibility can be a bit limited.

Both of these three-row models are great for big families. While the Durango can accommodate up to seven people, the Traverse can handle up to eight occupants. However, there’s even more space to spread out inside the Traverse. It has a total passenger volume of 157.3 cubic feet, which outclasses the Durango’s total passenger volume of 141.4 cubic feet. Keep in mind that there’s not a significant different in rear legroom between these family haulers.

When it comes to overall comfort, the 2021 Durango and Traverse offer a cozy interior that's sure to keep road-trippers comfortable. Larger passengers may find they need more space in the Traverse' front seats - but with optional heated/ventilated upholstery plus upgraded leather options available on both models you can tailor your ride any way you choose.

When it comes to cargo space, the Traverse is a clear leader over the Durango. With 23 cubic feet of room behind its third row seat, you can fit more gear when on-the-go - perfect for larger families or weekend adventurers! Both SUVs also feature folding rear seats so they're ready whenever additional storage space is needed.

The Dodge Durango gives drivers access to impressive technology that keeps them connected and in the know. Standard is an 8.4-inch Uconnect 4 touchscreen for simple smartphone connectivity, but you can also upgrade to a bigger 10.1-inch display with faster processing power – plus exclusive Performance Pages app capabilities so you can monitor your rides performance or even make adjustments.

Chevy’s Infotainment 3 system is also a good unit. Users enjoy its straightforward operation. However, the standard 7.0-inch touchscreen is smaller. Upper trims offer a larger 8.0-inch HD infotainment display.

Safety

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse is among the safest three-row SUVs in America. This SUV snagged a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. While the Traverse also received good crash scores from the IIHS, its standard headlights were given a “Poor” rating.

While the 2021 Dodge Durango provides an adequate amount of impact protection, an NHTSA four-star overall safety rating puts it a step behind the Traverse. Despite the Durango’s superior side-impact protection, its frontal crash scores were not as impressive. This SUV also have a mediocre, three-star rollover rating.

The Durango lets you drive with the peace of mind that only modern smart features can bring. It is equipped with a standard backup camera and offers an optional safety package featuring forward collision, lane control, and cruise control - perfect for longer drives on busy roads! And if all else fails, blind-spot monitoring plus rear cross-traffic warning keep your travels secure from any potential hazards lurking around corners or into other lanes.

With the Durango and Traverse, Chevy drivers are covered when it comes to safety; however, there's an added bonus with the latter! The Traverse features a 360-degree camera system for even greater visibility - especially convenient in those jam-packed parking lots. Need more help? Their rear facing camera mirror helps tackle tricky blind spots from behind too.

What Has the Best Value?

With their 2021 models, the Chevy Traverse and Dodge Durango offer car shoppers a variety of features all at an affordable price. While both vehicles come with things such as Bluetooth connectivity and tri-zone climate control for added comfort, the Traverse stands out by including Apple CarPlay Android Auto integration plus wireless Wi-Fi capabilities - giving drivers access to in-vehicle entertainment without skimping on budget! Starting from $29800 MSRP it's easy to see why many customers are opting for this option instead of its slightly more expensive counterpart ($32245).

For drivers looking for the ultimate luxury experience, Chevy offers its range-topping Traverse High Country. With a starting price of nearly $51,000, it's an impressive level of quality that comes with only one downside - cost! Fortunately people still wanting to enjoy lavish comfort can opt for the cheaper but no less extravagant Traverse Premier and save themselves a tidy sum; at just under $47k it boasts strikingly similar features as the Durango Citadel while being significantly more affordable.

Which Is Better?

Both of these three-row SUVs are hot commodities. However, some folks may find one to be more appealing than the other.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse is a good performer. Its strong V6 engine and composed V6 engine will impress most people. However, muscle car fans will be more drawn to the Durango. SRT versions of the Durango offer blistering acceleration. On the downside, drivers must give up a lot of fuel economy.

Enhanced towing capabilities give the Durango another edge over the Traverse. While both SUVs offer an AWD system, an available two-speed transfer case makes the Durango more suitable for off-road excursions. It will perform better on muddy trails.

Most families will find the Durango to be spacious and accommodating. However, there’s more passenger and luggage space inside the new Traverse. Families will also appreciate the Traverse’s better crash scores and additional safety options.

The Durango's bold exterior styling captivates many, with additional upgrades like a functional hood scoop and large exhaust tips to exude an even more ferocious presence. But if you're after something sleeker, behold the Traverse RS! Blacked-out treatments turn this SUV into a sleek street beast that won't go unnoticed.

Before choosing between these SUVs, car shoppers should consider what they desire the most in a new family hauler. Drivers who desire an extremely spacious vehicle with all the latest safety tech should go with the Traverse. On the other hand, folks seeking maximum performance will want the Durango. Nonetheless, both vehicles are deserving of a test drive.