2022 ​​Dodge Durango vs. Ford Explorer

Looking to do more research when it comes to the 2022 Dodge Durango vs. Ford Explorer? Santa Cruz Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is here with everything that Watsonville and Scotts Valley drivers need to know when it comes to choosing an Explorer or Durango near Santa Cruz. What are you looking for in your next three-row SUV? If you’re looking for a little more space, you may be looking at the Ford Explorer. But if you’re looking for a family-sized SUV that’s capable of towing a midsize boat or camper for family trips, we think you’ll agree that a Durango is a way to go. Learn more about each SUV below as we go over performance and specs!

2022 ​​Dodge Durango vs. Ford Explorer: Towing & Performance

Scotts Valley drivers will notice that the Dodge Durango features powerful engine options: a base V6 and two V8 upgrade options. The Ford Explorer features a standard 2.3 4-cylinder engine that can be upgraded with a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6— which generates more horsepower than the top Durango engine. But, this doesn’t allow the Ford Explorer to come close to the Dodge Durango’s 8,900-pound maximum towing capacity.

2022 Dodge Durango Engine Options

• 3.6L Pentastar® V6 – This base engine generates 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The best part? this engine can tow 6,200 pounds– more than the Explorer’s V6 engine upgrade.
• 5.7L HEMI® V8 – This first of two V8 options for the Durango generates 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Depending on your Durango configuration, it can tow anywhere from 7,400 to 8,900 pounds when properly equipped with this engine.
• 6.4L HEMI® SRT V8 Engine – The top Durango engine outputs an incredible 475 horsepower. It’s also incredibly fast— delivering a killer 0-60 mph time of just 4.4 seconds. It also delivers an available best-in-class towing capacity of up to 8,900 pounds.

2022 Ford Explorer Engine Options

• 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-Cylinder – The base Explorer engine features 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. With this engine, the Explorer can tow as much as 5,300 pounds.
• 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 – The Explorer’s V6 upgrade gives 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque on Platinum trim levels and as much as 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque on ST trim. It offers a bit more towing capacity at a 5,600-pound maximum towing capacity.
• 3.3L Hybrid Powertrain – The Explorer can also be upgraded with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, delivering up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity.

2022 ​​Durango vs. Ford Explorer: Cargo & Passenger Space

Which SUV offers more cabin room in the Explorer or Durango matchup? Both SUVs seat seven passengers, and they both feature third-row seating. The Explorer has a slight edge when it comes to headroom and cargo space:

2022 Ford Explorer Interior Dimensions

• Max. Cargo Volume – 87.8 cubic feet
• Cargo Volume to Row 3 – 18.2 cubic feet
• 1st/2nd/3rd-Row Headroom – 40.7/40.5/38.9 inches

2022 Dodge Durango Interior Dimensions

• Max. Cargo Volume – 85.1 cubic feet
• Cargo Volume to Row 3 – 17.2 cubic feet
• 1st/2nd/3rd-Row Headroom – 39.9/39.8/37.8 inches

Test Drive a New Dodge Durango at Santa Cruz Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Today

Still curious about whether you’re considering an Explorer or Durango? Contact us online today or call us at 831-400-5680 to see what a Dodge Durango offers Santa Cruz drivers. The Santa Cruz Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram team is here to answer all of your questions while offering you great new vehicle specials. Visit us today to find your next premium vehicle!