What To Know
- The Durango’s interior features a bold design with a large center console and a driver-focused cockpit.
- The Pilot comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
- The Pilot also offers optional features like a 9-inch touchscreen display, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
Choosing the perfect three-row SUV for your family can be a daunting task, with so many excellent options on the market. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Honda Pilot and the Dodge Durango. Both offer spacious cabins, ample cargo space, and a range of features, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Honda Pilot vs. Durango to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling
The Honda Pilot and Dodge Durango offer distinct driving experiences. The Pilot, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivers a smooth and refined ride. Its 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque provide adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The Pilot’s handling is precise and predictable, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and handle challenging road conditions.
The Durango, on the other hand, offers a more powerful and exhilarating driving experience. Its standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine boasts an impressive 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The Durango’s powerful engine and responsive transmission make it feel more athletic and engaging to drive. However, its heavier weight and more rugged suspension can sometimes lead to a slightly less refined ride than the Pilot.
Interior and Comfort
Both the Pilot and Durango provide spacious and comfortable interiors for passengers. The Pilot boasts a well-designed cabin with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. Its spacious second and third rows offer ample legroom and headroom for adults, while the comfortable seats provide a relaxing ride. The Pilot’s interior is also known for its excellent noise isolation, creating a serene and peaceful environment for passengers.
The Durango’s interior is equally spacious and comfortable, but it leans towards a more rugged and sporty aesthetic. Its leather-trimmed seats are supportive and comfortable, and the spacious second and third rows provide ample room for passengers. The Durango’s interior features a bold design with a large center console and a driver-focused cockpit.
Cargo Space and Versatility
Both the Honda Pilot and Dodge Durango offer impressive cargo space. The Pilot’s standard cargo capacity is 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 83.9 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Durango’s standard cargo capacity is 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Both vehicles offer ample space for luggage, groceries, and other cargo.
The Pilot’s second-row seats can be easily folded and tumbled to create a flat cargo floor, while the Durango’s second-row seats can be folded individually or together. Both vehicles offer flexible seating configurations to accommodate various cargo needs.
Technology and Safety Features
The Honda Pilot and Dodge Durango are packed with advanced technology and safety features. The Pilot comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Pilot also offers optional features like a 9-inch touchscreen display, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
The Durango offers a similar level of technology and safety features. Its standard 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Durango also offers optional features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a navigation system. The Durango’s safety suite includes features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Fuel Efficiency
The Honda Pilot boasts better fuel efficiency than the Dodge Durango. The Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway). The Durango’s standard 3.6-liter V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway), while the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway).
The Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?
The choice between the Honda Pilot and Dodge Durango ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Honda Pilot is an excellent choice for families seeking a comfortable, refined, and fuel-efficient three-row SUV. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and user-friendly technology make it a practical and enjoyable vehicle for everyday driving.
The Dodge Durango is a better choice for drivers who prioritize performance and a more rugged aesthetic. Its powerful engine options, sporty handling, and bold interior design make it a more engaging and exciting driving experience. However, its lower fuel efficiency and potentially less refined ride may be drawbacks for some buyers.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Honda Pilot and Dodge Durango are excellent choices, it’s important to consider other options in the three-row SUV segment. Vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Subaru Ascent, and Kia Telluride offer similar features and capabilities at competitive prices.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the best three-row SUV for your family is a personal decision. By carefully considering your individual needs, preferences, and budget, you can make an informed choice that meets your specific requirements. Whether you prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, performance, or technology, both the Honda Pilot and Dodge Durango offer compelling options to consider.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Both the Honda Pilot and Dodge Durango have generally good reliability ratings. However, Honda vehicles are known for their long-term durability and reliability, making the Pilot a slightly more reliable choice.
Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: The Dodge Durango offers a more comprehensive warranty than the Honda Pilot. The Durango’s warranty includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance warranty. The Pilot’s warranty includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 3-year/36,000-mile roadside assistance warranty.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Dodge Durango is a better choice for off-roading, thanks to its optional all-wheel-drive system and more rugged suspension. The Pilot’s all-wheel-drive system is primarily designed for improved traction in slippery conditions, while the Durango’s system is more capable of handling rough terrain.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Honda Pilot is generally more affordable than the Dodge Durango. The Pilot’s starting price is lower than the Durango’s, and its lower fuel consumption can also save you money in the long run.
Q: Which SUV is better for towing?
A: The Dodge Durango offers a higher towing capacity than the Honda Pilot. The Durango’s optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine can tow up to 7,400 pounds, while the Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
