2024 Dodge Durango vs. Chevy Traverse: Which is Better?

Do you find shopping for SUVs in the crowded midsize segment challenging? If so, you’re not alone. Two vehicles many shoppers quickly discover are the Dodge Durango and Chevrolet Traverse, and for good reasons. These SUVs have many desirable features with approachable pricing. Still, comparing the many trims, options, powertrain configurations, and other features can be daunting.

To help with the process, we asked our SUV experts at Marion Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to compare the two popular models. Continue reading so you can decide which SUV suits you best for getting around in Marion, North Carolina.

2024 Dodge Durango Vs. Chevrolet Traverse: Trim Levels and Pricing

Dodge makes the Durango in 16 trim levels, each with a unique style and performance equipment. Chevy makes the Traverse in six trims with distinctive qualities. Dodge hasn’t released pricing on the 2024 models but we expect them to be similar to the current models. In addition, insiders believe a Z71 and RST trim will replace the High Country and RS models. Here’s a look at the 2023 trim levels and pricing:

You can see that Dodge offers the Durango in more trim levels. But there’s a similar lineup once you remove the R/T and SRT models with race-inspired equipment and styling. For example, you can compare the Citadel with the Traverse High Country model as top-tier trims. In this regard, they remain very close in pricing. But adding the R/T and SRT trims gives you plenty of options if you value performance.

Who has the edge? Dodge Durango.

We can’t overlook the Dodge Durango’s many trims that appeal to broader audiences.

2024 Dodge Durango Vs. Chevrolet Traverse: Powertrain

Many buyers judge modern SUVs by their powertrain. The Durango has a 3.6-liter V-6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission in the SXT and GT models. This powertrain has 295 horsepower and tows 6,200 pounds.

The R/T and R/T HEMI Orange models have a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission under their hoods. This configuration produces 360 horsepower and enables 7,400 pounds of towing. The Citadel trim reverts to the V-6 with identical power numbers.

Dodge powers the SRT models with a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine capable of 475 horsepower and a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. However, the SRT Hellcat trims deliver incredible power from a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine. This powertrain puts out 710 horsepower and an 8,700-pound towing capacity.

Chevy makes the Traverse with a single engine: a 3.6-liter V-6 motor paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. The maximum towing capacity of the Traverse reaches 5,000 pounds.

Even with a base-model engine that produces less horsepower than the Traverse, the Durango tows more than its competitor. Dodge’s legendary HEMI V-8 gives you more horsepower in the lower trims than the Traverse, and the R/T and SRT models blow the top off in this comparison.

Who has the edge? Dodge Durango.

If you want an efficient but lackluster powertrain, choose the Traverse. Otherwise, the Durango offers thrilling drives that outperform the Traverse in every other metric.

2024 Dodge Durango Vs. Chevrolet Traverse: Exterior Style

The Durango screams muscle like its sedan siblings, the Charger and Challenger. A wide stance and aggressive style provide a bold aesthetic as it rolls on 20-inch alloy wheels in various colors and styles. Durango’s LED lighting lets you see and be seen. The functional hood scoop and available racing stripes add a distinctive style.

The Chevrolet Traverse has a modern style with sleek lines and subtle curves. Its boxy style says big, but not fast or fun. You can find 18- to 22-inch alloy wheels in various types, and Chevy equips the Traverse with LED lights.

Who has the edge? Dodge Durango.

There’s nothing wrong with the Traverse’s exterior. But the Durango looks right. With its bold, aggressive, functional, and modern style, there’s a lot to like about the Durango’s exterior.

2024 Dodge Durango Vs. Chevrolet Traverse: Interior Comfort and Convenience

Inside the Durango, you have a cabin with seating for up to seven passengers in spacious quarters. Or you can opt for second-row captain’s chairs with a center console in the six-passenger configuration. You have over 50 possible seating configurations in the Durango.

The second row folds forward with the touch of a button for easy access to the third row. And the third row split-folds for increased cargo capacity. And if you fold the second and third rows flat, you have 85.1 cubic feet of storage.

The Durango’s driver-centric cockpit intuitively places all your controls for easy operations. Dodge equips the Durango with a 10.1-inch touch screen with the UConnect 5 infotainment system. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth come preloaded for your convenience.

Chevy provides seating for up to eight people in the Traverse. You can also opt for second-row captain’s chairs, lowering the capacity to seven. The Traverse has second-row seats that tilt and fold at the push of a button. When you fold the second and third rows flat, you end up with 98.2 cubic feet of cargo space.

All your infotainment runs through Chevy’s Infotainment 3 system, which has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. But it runs on a smaller 8-inch touch screen.

Who has the edge? Even.

The Durango has more interior style and a performance design quality that the Traverse doesn’t match. But the Traverse has more passenger and cargo volume.

Dodge Durango for the Win

After a thorough review, the 2024 Dodge Durango beats the Traverse in several categories. The Durango has more power and trim levels. And its impressive style ensures you’ll love driving around Marion. We recommend looking through our virtual inventory if you’re ready for a closer look. Once you find your dream trim, you can speak with one of our finance managers to complete a deal.