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2021 Dodge Durango Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

2021 Dodge Durango Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: SXT vs SXT Plus, GT vs GT Plus, R/T & Citadel
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2021 Dodge Durango Trim Level Should you Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

As a practical but powerful vehicle in the Dodge lineup, the 2021 Dodge Durango is multi-faceted and complex. Seeking to provide customers with the practicality of being a family vehicle with the power of being part of the renowned Dodge family, the Durango fits every need you could ever have. Spacious, flexible, and capable, the 2021 Dodge Durango gives you the option to go off-roading, take your kids to practice, or go on a coast-to-coast vacation. While this model was always known for its well-rounded nature, it was not until recent years that it got the upgrade it truly deserved.

Sporting a sleeker and more sophisticated look, a supercharged engine, and six different trim levels, the 2021 Dodge Durango is both handsome and capable. Based off Dodge's ever-popular Hellcat model, the newest Durango is more powerful than ever before. Though good looks are appreciated, what is under the hood is what garners the most attention from buys. From the inside out, the 2021 Dodge Durango has seen its fair share of upgrades and changes. We cannot wait to show you all that we have discovered.

Selecting a trim level that you think is the best representation of the 2021 Dodge Durango will take much thought and consideration. By providing you with some of the main differences between these trim levels, you can use this guide to make your own decision.

Compare the 2021 Dodge Durango SXT vs SXT Plus Trims. What is the difference?

The very name of these two models says it all. The base 2021 Dodge Durango SXT sets the baseline for trim levels to follow, including the improved SXT Plus. Let us start off with the features that you can expect from both trim levels. Two rows of seating accompanied by a capacity for seven passengers puts this SUV right in the middle of its competition. Yet, the lack of a hybrid engine option and reduced fuel efficiency make this SUV a bit of an anomaly. Once buyers find out about the tradeoff of these features for enhanced towing capacity and increased horsepower, they are more likely to appreciate the 2021 Dodge Durango for its unique personality.

A powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine kicks off the base SXT and SXT Plus trim levels. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this engine can produce 295 horsepower and tow up to 6,200 pounds. While the SXT and SXT Plus are similar in their performance they begin to grow apart in their interior features and exterior attributes. The SXT comes standard with second-row seating and a passenger capacity of five, while other trim levels incorporate a third-row design. A leather steering wheel, cloth seating, and manually-adjustable seats can be expected in both the SXT and SXT Plus.

If you are looking for comfort in your 2021 Dodge Durango, the SXT Plus trim is the way to go. Power adjustable seating, three rows of passenger space, and heated leather seats are all standard amenities. A sunroof also becomes available in the 2021 Dodge Durango SXT Plus trim. You can feel comfortable soaring down the road with the wind your hair and a free annual subscription to SiriusXM blasting your favorite tunes in the SXT Plus.

Compare the 2021 Dodge Durango SXT Plus vs GT Trim Level. What is the difference?

Sporting the same mechanical specs as the SXT and SXT Plus, the Dodge Durango GT is much like its predecessors under the hood. Offering all-wheel drive as an upgrade to its standard rear-wheel drive is a welcome change that is also relevant to the SXT and SXT Plus trim levels. One way that the GT does change from the SXT and SXT Plus is through the addition of paddle shifters that are mounted to the steering wheel. Giving the GT a sportier look and feel while creating a more convenient and intuitive driving experience, these shifters are a great addition.

Extra equipment and enhanced exterior attributes are also included in the mid-level GT trim. These include an available 8.4-inch touchscreen, 20-inch wheels, premium LED fog lamps and daytime running lamps, and a navigation system. Not only is the 2021 Dodge Durango GT attractive, but it is also extremely accommodating to passengers within. While selecting the GT trim level will gain buyers access to more interior feature options, the safety features of this trim level will stay the same as those that accompany the SXT and SXT Plus.

Compare the 2021 Dodge Durango GT vs GT Plus Trim. What is the difference?

Despite their similar names, the 2021 Dodge Durango GT and GT Plus could not be more different. It is noted that the GT trim added a few more amenities than the SXT and SXT Plus, but the GT Plus greatly enhances and adds to the features of the Durango GT. So much so that it is almost unrecognizable as a relative to the mid-level GT. In this model, eight-way power-adjustable seats will emerge, heated seats in the first and second row set in, and a leather seat material takes its place as a standard feature. Furthermore, a stereo system upgrade is also available. An Alpine system that consists of nine speaker takes its place as the sole entertainment provider in the 2021 Dodge Durango.

Becoming more convenient and accommodating, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen upgrade is available in the GT and GT Plus trims. The convenience of a power liftgate and availability of a performance hood are also highlighting of the GT and GT Plus trims. The GT Plus trim level really excels in advanced safety features, though. Driver assistive safety features, such as forward collision warning and lane keep assist, can be found in the GT Plus trim level. However, these advancements come with a hefty cost that drives an even bigger wedge between the 2021 Dodge Durango GT and GT Plus.

Compare the 2021 Dodge Durango GT Plus vs R/T Trim Level. What is the difference?

Sporty, capable, and ready to take on your biggest jobs, the 2021 Dodge Durango R/T is unlike any other trim level offered in this vehicle model. It really is a comprehensive and well-rounded vehicle that boasts an enhanced towing capacity and an even sportier exterior appearance. A standard 10.1-inch touchscreen with a Uconnect interface and wireless charging pad enhance both the look and functionality of the R/T trim. Still yet, this SUV model in the R/T trim just keeps getting better. Flared fenders, 20-inch wheels, and a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds set the bar for competitors to strive for.

One of the best, and most unexpected ways that the 2021 Dodge Durango R/T makes its presence known is through its exemplary fuel economy. While other models may not excel in this area, the V8 of the R/T trim level outdoes many competitors from other automakers. Ranging from 22 to 23 Highway MPG, depending on the selected engine, puts it in the top half of fuel economy for traditional SUVs. Commendable fuel efficiency with an engine that is more capable than most need is the most impressive combination the 2021 Dodge Durango R/T has to offer.

Compare the 2021 Dodge Durango R/T vs Citadel. What is the difference?

Moving up to the 2021 Dodge Durango Citadel means that a new HEMI V8 takes the place of the previously standard V6 engine of the other trim level selections. This 5.7-liter engine can produce up to 360 horsepower and can generate up to 390 lb.-ft. of raw torque. Though this engine is an available option for many trim levels, its addition to the top Citadel trim level base makes a big statement. The 2021 Dodge Durango Citadel is the best you can get in this SUV model, and its included amenities focus on driver and passenger comfort and satisfaction.

Balancing power with looks, the 2021 Dodge Durango Citadel is just as aesthetically appealing as it is capable. Platinum chrome 20-inch wheels come standard on the Citadel trim giving it a refined look. Luxury leather wraps around door panels within the cabin of this SUV, while gun metal accents can be found throughout this vehicle's interior. Automatic high beams help illuminate the road ahead, while giving this Durango trim a modern appeal. Standard roof racks also affect both the look and functionality of the 2021 Dodge Durango Citadel.

Which Trim to Choose?

It is a valid argument that any trim level accompanying the 2021 Dodge Durango is the perfect fit for the specific consumers it appeals to. The trim levels for this SUV are so different that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. In a way, this is good, because buyers can feel that every 2021 Dodge Durango is unique. From the base SXT to the top Citadel, the 2021 Dodge Durango meets buyers where they are. Whether you are looking for an entry-level SUV that is practical and powerful or interested in a sleek SUV that is almost luxury level, the 2021 Dodge Durango can fulfill your desires in a new vehicle.

Simplistic and conventional are the two main attributes of the 2021 Dodge Durango SXT and SXT Plus. In some ways, the GT trim may also fall into this group of practical and powerful trim level offerings, as well. These Durango models are affordable, yet admirable. With enough horsepower to get the job done and a contemporary look to draw buyers in, the 2021 Dodge Durango SXT, SXT Plus, and GT build this Dodge model's foundation. Yet, some buyers want more than base trim levels can typically offer.

To get a bit more personalized and comfortable, the well-equipped GT Plus is a complete game-changer. Throwing in more interior attributes and upgrades than you could ever expect, the GT Plus is ready to make your drive an actual experience. The GT Plus trim level would be the perfect option for those looking for something a bit different in their new SUV.

Premium, upscale, and luxurious, the 2021 Dodge Durango R/T and Citadel offer the ultimate accommodations for drivers and their guests. Incorporating the most modern and necessary features, these two Dodge Durango trim levels know what it takes to get to the top and remain there. Deciding to choose the Dodge Durango R/T or Citadel is not one to be taken lightly. Though they only differ in a few ways, it is important to consider what that will mean to your and how it will impact your ideal driving experience.

Overall, any 2021 Dodge Durango trim will allow you to partake in the convenience and comfort in many of the same features. Simple tweaks and integrations along the way just allow buys to further customize their 2021 Dodge Durango to make it stand out among rivals. The 2021 Dodge Durango a historical contender in the SUV marketplace that just keeps rising in popularity.

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Compare the 2020 Dodge Durango Trim Levels