2026 Dodge Durango vs 2026 Ford Explorer
Shoppers comparing three-row SUVs expect real capability, confident power, and intuitive technology. Set side by side, the 2026 Dodge Durango vs 2026 Ford Explorer highlights two proven, rear-drive-based platforms—yet one clearly emphasizes muscle and towing in a way families and weekend haulers feel every day. At Sherman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, we guide customers through the details that matter: standard V8 availability on Durango for 2026, rock-solid 8-speed tuning, a max tow rating up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped, and Uconnect infotainment that stays easy even when routines get busy. The Explorer counters with a modernized cabin and a large 13.2-inch touchscreen, but its highest tow rating tops out at 5,000 pounds and its standard engine is a turbo four, not a V8. For households that want one vehicle to do it all—commute during the week, pull toys on the weekend, and feel composed year-round—our team sees the Durango’s rear-wheel-drive dynamics and V8 torque as difference-makers in Skokie, IL. The 2026 Dodge Durango vs 2026 Ford Explorer comparison ultimately comes down to usable strength and confidence—areas where Durango stands out.
| Feature | Dodge Durango (2026) | Ford Explorer (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard V8 power across lineup | Yes | No |
| Maximum towing capacity of 8,700 lb (when properly equipped) | Yes | No |
| Available performance-tuned 6.4-liter V-8 | Yes | No |
| Tow N Go package available | Yes | No |
| Rear-wheel-drive architecture | Yes | Yes |
| All-wheel drive available | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| 10-inch-plus touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Optional 20-speaker premium audio | Yes | No |
| Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert | Yes | Yes |
Exterior - Dodge Dealer serving Skokie, IL
Durango’s stance conveys purpose—long hood, taught shoulders, and an unmistakable light signature that reinforce the SUV’s performance brief. Shoppers can dial in attitude with packages like Blacktop and the new Blacktop Redline package on the R/T, which adds black 20-inch wheels, dark badges, and SRT-inspired aerodynamic touches for a bolder, street-tuned look. Wheel choices run aggressive, and available dual exhaust visually underscores V8 intent. Explorer adopts a clean, upright shape with crisp detailing and trims that telegraph their missions—ST-Line for sporty cues, Platinum for upscale polish, and the new Tremor trim for off-pavement flair thanks to a lifted stance and all-terrain tires. For families coming from Evanston and Niles, the Durango’s cohesive, muscle-forward design makes it look every bit as capable as it feels, while Explorer’s recent refresh brings sharper surfacing and modern lighting. When customers visit Sherman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, our team highlights how Durango’s exterior choices reflect the power under the hood and the hardware behind the scenes, making it easy to configure an SUV that looks right at home in Skokie, IL—weekdays in the driveway, weekends at the lake, and nights out downtown.
Interior - 2026 Dodge Durango in Skokie, IL
Inside, both SUVs deliver family-ready layouts and modern tech, but the Durango’s interface is notably straightforward. A 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect anchors the dash with large, legible icons and quick responses, backed by wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep daily life seamless. Available features such as ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs, and an optional 20-speaker Harman/Kardon system create a premium, muscle-luxe vibe consistent with Durango’s character. The second row can be configured as a bench or captain’s chairs, and thoughtful ergonomics make front-row controls easy to reach, even with winter gloves—practical for drivers in Skokie, IL. Explorer’s cabin emphasizes tech breadth via the Ford Digital Experience on a 13.2-inch screen, extensive USB availability, and a Bang & Olufsen 12-speaker audio option, plus clever stow spaces and an easy-access path to the third row. While Explorer’s third row is best for kids, Durango’s elevated third-row seating achieves a sense of space that belies the numbers. If you value clear, intuitive controls paired to muscular personality, Durango’s infotainment and trim options deliver a satisfying blend of function and attitude.
Dodge Durango vs Ford Explorer Mechanical Specs
Both vehicles start with confident, rear-wheel-drive architectures that support available all-wheel drive, but Durango’s chassis tuning leans into stable towing manners and athletic everyday dynamics. The platform communicates the road without harshness, aided by available load-leveling rear suspension on select trims that helps maintain composure with passengers or a trailer in tow. Durango owners can further tailor capability with the Tow N Go package on R/T, which brings performance-calibrated hardware and drive modes tailored to hauling. Explorer’s mechanical updates for 2026 focus on the Tremor trim—lifted suspension, a limited-slip rear differential, and all-terrain tires—to add back-road readiness. Across the lineup, the Explorer’s rear-drive setup and available all-wheel drive yield predictable, composed handling that feels confident in daily driving. Still, when towing is a priority, the Durango’s long wheelbase and rear-drive poise contribute to confident tracking and smoother inputs with a trailer attached. The result is an SUV that feels settled whether you’re merging onto the highway, navigating an on-ramp with kids onboard, or backing a boat down a ramp—performance that owners appreciate long after the first test drive.
Powertrain - Dodge Dealership in Skokie, IL
Powertrains set the tone for daily confidence. For 2026, Durango makes V8 power its calling card: a standard 5.7-liter V-8 in volume trims and an available 6.4-liter V-8 in R/T that provides a deeper reserve of muscle. The 8-speed automatic pairs cleanly with V8 torque for decisive launches and calm midrange response, whether you’re passing or pulling. The Explorer lineup offers a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as the standard engine and a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 on ST and available on Platinum, providing strong acceleration in the right configuration. Where preferences diverge is sustained towing and that unmistakable V8 character—areas in which the 2026 Dodge Durango thrives. When properly equipped, Durango tows up to 8,700 pounds, while Explorer’s maximum is 5,000 pounds. That difference matters on the road: longer, heavier loads feel more composed when torque arrives in a broad, predictable wave. Shoppers weighing the 2026 Dodge Durango vs 2026 Ford Explorer will find both can hustle, but only one is engineered from the outset to deliver V8-driven confidence and the highest tow rating in this matchup.
Safety - Dodge Durango vs Ford Explorer
Active safety is a must for family duty, and both SUVs bring a robust roster. Durango makes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard, adds available automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, and integrates an easy-to-read driver display that keeps alerts clear and unobtrusive. The 2026 Dodge Durango also offers driver-selectable modes that help balance traction with control in poor weather, while available camera views improve low-speed maneuvering. Explorer counters with a wide suite of standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist, plus available BlueCruise for certain trims. On the road, differences come down to feel as much as features: the Durango’s calm steering and settled chassis help the electronic aids work in the background, so you experience less correction and more composure—especially while towing. Our team at Sherman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram emphasizes that safety is holistic—visibility, stability, and braking are equally crucial. When a vehicle starts with a planted stance and predictable responses, the tech can complement the driver rather than constantly intervene, a quality families notice quickly.
Request more 2026 Dodge Durango vs 2026 Ford Explorer in Skokie, IL information
For families who need one SUV to handle daily commuting, school runs, weekend getaways, and serious towing, Durango’s formula is hard to beat. The V8-first lineup, confident 8-speed tuning, and up-to-8,700-pound tow rating give you an immediate advantage, while the easygoing Uconnect interface and available premium audio keep everybody content mile after mile. Explorer’s recent updates improve its tech story and trim lineup, but the fundamentals that separate these two remain clear. We sell the Durango—and for good reason. Our team knows how to help you configure the right seating, packages, and trailering equipment for your life so you can use the capability you’re paying for every day in Skokie, IL. Visit us to test drive, ask detailed questions, and feel how the chassis, powertrain, and technology come together in a way that’s uniquely Durango. If your priorities include torque-rich performance and real, repeatable capability, you’ll appreciate how this SUV takes on big jobs with a calm, confident demeanor.
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