Dodge Durango vs Chevrolet Traverse 12/23/2010
Drivers have a wide variety to choose from when shopping for a crossover, but those who want to stick to buying American will likely be drawn to models like the Dodge Durango and Chevrolet Traverse.
Both the Traverse and the Durango are extremely close in many respects, with the Traverse just $30 more expensive. However, one of these two domestic crossovers ends up being a slightly better buy than the other.
In terms of performance, the two models are nearly identical. The Traverse has a narrow 1 mpg lead and 6 more lb-ft of torque, but the Durango offers a bit more power with 290 hp compared to the Traverse's 281. One key difference is the Durago's rear-wheel drive compared to the Traverse's front-wheel layout. The Durango is one of the few family cars to offer rear-wheel drive, so that may be the tipping point for fans of that style.
The Traverse has a few extra safety features when compared with the Durango, like standard all-season tires, an anti-theft system and a limited trial of OnStar. The Durango has dual climate control, but the Traverse is also slightly larger, with Chevy claiming seating for eight as opposed to the Durango's room for seven.
In the end, both vehicles offer different features that are sure to split drivers pretty evenly. We personally give the slight edge to the Traverse because of its torque, fuel economy, extra seating and OnStar.