Compare 2017 Dodge Durango vs Ford Explorer

Compare 2017 Dodge Durango vs 2017 Ford Explorer

Serving Jackson, Lansing, and Ann Arbor

 Overview

Available in five trims, the 2017 Dodge Durango is a premium SUV that appeals to families. The 2017 Ford Explorer is an SUV that also comes with family-friendly features. Both models have three rows of seats that provide good comfort for up to seven occupants. Available with the Pentastar V6 engine or HEMI V8 engine, the Durango offers more powerful performance than the Explorer. Additionally, the ParkSense and ParkView are some class-leading safety features that can be installed in this Dodge model.

 Performance

The 2017 Dodge Durango is driven by the 3.6 L Pentastar V6 engine, which has a maximum output of 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The Ford Explorer has a similar six-cylinder engine that's rated at 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. When equipped with the 5.7 L HEMI V8 engine, the Durango offers access to 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. This legendary engine also gives the Durango enough strength to tow up to 7,400 pounds.

Even though it's turbocharged, the Explorer's 3.5 L EcoBoost V6 engine can't match the torque output of the HEMI engine. Although it has a solid powertrain, this Ford has a towing capacity of only 5,000 pounds. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard in the Dodge Durango. With a simple adjustment of an electronic rotary dial, it's possible to select the perfect gear ratio. Offering only six gear speeds, the Explorer's SelectShift automatic transmission is simply not as versatile as the Durango's transmission. Both SUVs also have 4WD for reliable traction on different surfaces.

 Safety

The 2017 Dodge Durango is equipped with the Rain Brake Support, which keeps the brake pads dry even in inclement weather. This SUV will come to a prompt stop on demand thanks to some help from the Brake Assist and Ready-Alert Braking. Rain-sensing windshield wipers are also installed in this premium Dodge. When the Durango is set to run on auto pilot, the Adaptive Cruise Control will make the appropriate adjustments to prevent front collisions with other vehicles ahead.

Another active safety technology in the Durango is the Blind Spot Monitoring, which assists the driver with lane changes. The Ford Explorer offers the similar Blind Spot Information System. Backing up in this Dodge should be easy with some guidance from the ParkSense Rear Park Assist System. Additionally, the ParkView Rear Back Up Camera shows a wide-angle view of the vehicle's surroundings. If the Durango gets stuck on the road, the Uconnect Roadside Assistance will surely come in handy.

 Value / Quality

The starting price tag for the 2017 Dodge Durango SXT is just under $30,000. By contrast, the Ford Explorer base trim costs more than $31,000. As the most advanced model in the Durango lineup, the R/T can be purchased for more than $42,000. You'll have to spend more than $52,000 to buy the Ford Explorer Platinum. Despite being more affordable than the Explorer, the Durnago offers better digital technology. For example, this Dodge SUV boasts the Uconnect infotainment system that includes an 8.4-inch touch screen with navigation software. The Durnago can also be equipped with dual 9-inch monitors that play DVDs and Blu-ray discs. Both SUVs offer premium interior amenities like leather-appointed seats and climate control systems with multiple zones.

 Give Us A Call In Jackson, MI

Contact us to schedule a test drive in the 2017 Dodge Durango. We proudly serve Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas.