Even in such a popular segment, the 2022 Dodge Durango stands out among other mid-sized SUVs. While the Hellcat version is no longer available, the 2022 model still features two fierce V8 engine options. It also has a cavernous interior, and its 8,700-pound towing capacity is hard to beat. Still, even with all its advantages, the 2022 Dodge Durango isn’t the most complete SUV. The 2022 Chevy Traverse is another good option, with solid V6 power and a fine assortment of tech features.
We’ve got four more reasons why you should consider the Traverse over the Durango.
1. The 2022 Chevy Traverse costs less than the 2022 Dodge Durango
The standard 2022 Chevy Traverse starts at $33,700 and has tons of features. You can also add four-wheel drive to any trim for $2,000.
The Traverse RS is a solid middle ground option between the base LS and the top-of-the-line High Country. It has leather seats (upgraded from stock fabric), larger wheels, a new stereo system and a 360-degree parking camera. This trim starts at $44,200.
In comparison, the 2022 Dodge Durango costs at least $37,760 for additional mechanical or convenience options. The Dodge Durango R/T, which sits in the middle of the lineup, starts at $50,560. The Durango’s top gear costs nearly $18,000 more than a fully loaded 2022 Chevy Traverse.
2. The Traverse has a better interior than the Durango
The 2022 Chevy Traverse can accommodate up to eight riders, and each seat provides ample long-term support. According to US News, both first and second seats accommodate taller passengers. The interior remains reasonably quiet at high speeds and the infotainment interface functions well.
The 2022 Dodge Durango seats just seven people — or six if you opt for the second-row captain’s seats. It also has an intuitive infotainment system, but some critics say the interior quality of the 2022 Durango doesn’t match the price. In addition, the Chevy Traverse offers six cubic feet more cargo space with each seat in use than the Durango (23 vs. 17).
3. The 2022 Dodge Durango has lower IIHS safety ratings than the 2022 Traverse
The IIHS gave the 2022 Dodge Durango a below average score on its small overlapping driver-side crash test. It also received a poor rating in the safety cage evaluation because it does not provide good protection for the driver’s lower legs.
The 2022 Chevy Traverse earns satisfactory safety ratings from the IIHS in every major test category. It also has preventive measures to protect the driver’s entire body during a crash.
4. The Chevy Offers Better Performance
The 2022 Chevy Traverse’s base V6 has more power than the Durango’s base engine (310 horsepower versus 295 horsepower). Consumer Reports testers say the Traverse can accelerate to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The Durango is a full second slower.
Reportedly, the Traverse feels better cornering, and the suspension easily absorbs most of the bumps along the sidewalk. The Dodge Durango is frustrating to deal with by comparison.
The heaviest Durango weighs nearly 1,000 pounds more than the Traverse, and even the lighter models have an exaggerated body roll. Many critics reported that the suspension feels too bumpy at lower speeds, too. It is also difficult to park in a busy parking lot; however, the Traverse has a similar problem.
If you want a V8 equipped Durango, your gas mileage can be as low as 13/19 mpg city/highway with AWD. By comparison, the thirstiest Traverse earns 17/25 mpg city/highway.
The 2022 Dodge Durango is still a decent SUV, but the 2022 Chevy Traverse offers superior performance and safety at a better price.
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