2023 Dodge Durango vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a fresh take on electrified mobility, distinct from its predecessor, the original Ioniq. It marked the beginning of Hyundai's standalone Ioniq brand, focusing solely on electric vehicles. The Ioniq 5's exterior design was a blend of minimalistic character lines and intricate Parametric Pixel elements, giving it a concept car-like appearance. The lighting design was particularly notable, with pixelated LEDs used extensively across the vehicle. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene "Living Space" theme, with sustainable materials and a Relaxation mode for the driver's seat, emphasizing comfort and eco-friendliness.

In contrast, the 2023 Dodge Durango maintained its familiar yet attractive design, avoiding the trend of oversized grilles. Its clean styling was complemented by Dodge's signature "racetrack" taillights. The SRT models featured subtle yet distinctive styling cues, such as a Viper-like hood and unique wheels. The interior, while not as distinctive as the exterior, offered a comfortable and well-equipped space. The Durango's interior configurations included options for second-row captain's chairs, enhancing comfort for passengers. Despite its age, the Durango's design remained competitive in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains, with rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option. The base SE Standard Range model featured a 128-kW motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range variants, available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, boasted a 168-kW motor with 225 hp and a range of 303 miles. The AWD version delivered 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 256 miles. The Ioniq 5's performance was solid for a midsize crossover, with a focus on comfort and control rather than sporty dynamics. It featured four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The Ioniq 5's regenerative braking system, adjustable via paddle shifters, added an engaging element to the driving experience.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 293 horsepower. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8, standard on the R/T and optional on the Citadel, delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The SRT 392 model featured a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 475 hp, while the SRT Hellcat boasted a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 producing 710 hp. The Hellcat's performance was exhilarating, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. Despite its size, the Durango Hellcat offered a thrilling driving experience, with adaptive-damping suspension and Brembo brakes ensuring control. The Durango's towing capacity was impressive, with V6 models capable of towing 6,200 pounds and V8 models up to 8,700 pounds.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 utilized the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), maximizing interior space with a long wheelbase. It offered a total interior volume of 133.7 cubic feet, surpassing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5 prioritized passenger comfort with 106.5 cubic feet of passenger volume. The interior featured soft touchpoints and a moveable center console, enhancing usability. The leatherette seats provided comfort and support, catering to various driver sizes.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered seven-seat or six-seat configurations, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. Interior space was competitive with other midsize SUVs, with generous headroom and legroom across all three rows. Cargo space was slightly limited compared to rivals, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row. The Durango excelled in small-item storage, with a large wireless charging pad and well-placed USB ports. Towing capacity was a highlight, with V6 models towing up to 6,200 pounds and V8 models up to 8,700 pounds.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured advanced technology, including a high-voltage system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes. Hyundai partnered with Electrify America to offer unlimited 30-minute fast-charging sessions for two years. The Ioniq 5's multimedia features included a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant and intuitive, with an anti-glare coating for improved visibility.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen on SXT and GT models, while the Citadel and SRT models featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5. The infotainment system was responsive and user-friendly, with Easter Eggs for SRT models adding personality. The Performance Pages app provided performance information, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on the SRT Hellcat model.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and collision avoidance. Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, adapting to the driver's habits. A head-up display with augmented reality overlays was available, though it could be distracting. While safety ratings were not yet available, Hyundai's track record suggested high marks were likely.

The 2023 Dodge Durango received mixed safety ratings. The IIHS awarded "Good" marks in some tests but a "Marginal" score in the driver-side small overlap front test. The NHTSA gave the Durango a four-star overall safety rating, with five stars in the side crash test. Standard driver-assist tech was limited, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert included on all trims. More advanced features were standard only on the Citadel and optional on other models.