When you look at SUVs, safety is a big deal. Honestly, it’s often the first thing on a buyer’s mind. Dodge Durango and Dodge Journey are popular choices. They offer lots of space and strong performance. But how safe are they in a crash? What about their advanced safety gear? Let’s talk about their crash test scores. We will also check out their safety ratings. Then we can explore the cool safety tech these Dodge SUVs pack.
Understanding Crash Test Performance
To judge how safe the Dodge Durango and Dodge Journey are, we check key ratings. These come from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS. NHTSA is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. They use a five-star system for vehicle safety. This system covers frontal crashes and side impacts. It also looks at rollover resistance. IIHS means the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. They run many different tests. These tests show how well a car protects people inside. It’s like a simulated real-world disaster. You know, these agencies really dive deep into vehicle safety. Their goal is to give us clear information. This helps us make informed choices.
Dodge Durango: A Strong Performer
The Dodge Durango usually gets good marks from NHTSA tests. For instance, the 2021 Durango did really well. It earned a five-star overall safety rating. That’s pretty impressive, I think. It got high scores in both frontal and side crash tests. Specifically, it pulled in five stars for side impacts. Frontal crash tests gave it four stars. This shows solid protection for everyone inside. The Durango’s structure is tough. It has a very strong frame. Plus, many airbags are part of its design. All these things help it get such good safety ratings. It’s no secret that Dodge has invested heavily. They want to make the Durango a very robust vehicle. Honestly, it shows in these results.
Dodge Journey: Mixed Results
Now, the Dodge Journey is a reliable SUV. But its crash test results aren’t as impressive. The 2020 model saw mixed reviews. The IIHS gave it an Acceptable rating. This was for small overlap front tests. These tests are vital. They show how well a car protects passengers. Especially in certain specific crash types. Its NHTSA rating was a bit better. It received a four-star overall rating. But it still trailed behind the Durango. This is certainly in terms of overall safety performance. It makes you wonder, doesn’t it? Some argue its design just didn’t keep pace. Vehicle safety technology advanced quickly. The Journey simply fell behind a bit.
Advanced Safety Features in Dodge SUVs
Safety features are super important. They protect everyone in a vehicle. Both the Dodge Durango and Dodge Journey offer safety tech. This tech helps prevent crashes. It also keeps people safe if an accident happens. They each come equipped with a range of advanced safety technologies. But here’s the thing: the types and number of features differ. This is a critical point for buyers.
Durango’s Advanced Safety Offerings
In the Durango, several advanced features are standard. You find them across many trim levels. For example, the Durango includes a rearview camera. This helps you see behind the car. It also has blind-spot monitoring. This alerts you to cars in your blind spots. Rear cross-traffic alert is another helpful feature. It warns you of vehicles coming when you back up. These features really make drivers more aware. They also help reduce accident chances. Think about backing out of a busy parking lot. That alert can save you from a fender bender! Additionally, the Durango uses advanced airbags. It also has electronic stability control. Traction control systems are included too. These additions certainly boost its safety profile. Plus, some higher trims even offer adaptive cruise control. This system keeps a set distance from cars ahead. Lane-keeping assist is available too. This gently steers you back if you drift. These truly help prevent crashes.
Journey’s Safety Features
The Dodge Journey also has safety features. To be honest, it’s a good suite. But it’s not quite as advanced as the Durango’s. Standard features include a rearview camera. Stability control is also there. Many airbags protect passengers. However, the Journey misses some key tech. It lacks adaptive cruise control. Lane departure warning is also absent. Automatic emergency braking isn’t available either. These features could help prevent many accidents. That’s a real difference between the two models. It’s troubling to see a popular SUV fall short here. From my perspective, these newer technologies should be standard.
Real-World Safety: Statistics and Stories
Let’s look at the numbers. They tell a clear story about these SUVs. According to IIHS data, advanced safety features really help. Vehicles with them are 27% less likely to crash. This statistic truly highlights their value. These technologies make cars safer for everyone. Imagine a world where all cars had this tech. Fewer accidents would happen. That’s a powerful thought. Studies by the National Safety Council also support this. They show a direct link. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) reduce specific crash types. For instance, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking can cut rear-end crashes by 50%.
We have seen how this plays out in real life. Consider two actual accidents. One involved a 2021 Dodge Durango. A family was in a side-impact collision. The Durango’s side curtain airbags deployed. Its reinforced frame held strong. All occupants had only minor injuries. The family felt very secure. They praised the vehicle’s robust safety features. This case certainly shows the Durango’s strength. It protected them when it truly mattered.
Then, there was a collision involving a Dodge Journey. The driver lost control. The vehicle unfortunately rolled over. Airbags did deploy in the Journey. But its rollover risk was higher. This was due to its design. It also stemmed from its safety ratings. This incident shows the impact of safety differences. It’s a sobering reminder. Technology and ratings truly matter. This driver’s story underscores why those IIHS rollover ratings are important.
Expert Views on Vehicle Safety
I believe experts offer great insights. They help us understand vehicle safety. Automotive safety specialists stress advanced features. They consistently highlight their importance. Jessica Cicchino is a Vice President at IIHS. She states that “advanced tech significantly reduces the risk of crashes.” This quote is powerful. It shows manufacturers must make these features a priority. She also notes how these systems often work together. They create a layered protection.
James Bell, an automotive analyst, also emphasizes crash ratings. He points out their value. Many consumers overlook crash ratings, he notes. But they are crucial for smart decisions. He continues, “A higher rating can mean the difference between life and death.” This view reinforces a simple truth. Safety should be a top priority. When you pick a car, think safety first. He believes ignoring ratings is a big mistake.
A Look Back: Dodge SUV Safety History
Dodge SUVs have a history of focusing on safety. The Durango first appeared in 1998. It has changed a lot over the years. Early models aimed for power and space. But later versions really focused on safety. For example, stability control was added around 2010. Advanced airbag systems also came then. This showed the industry’s shift. Protecting occupants became a bigger priority. Dodge responded to growing consumer demand. They also had to meet stricter regulations.
The Dodge Journey launched in 2008. It also improved its safety. People first criticized its lack of advanced tech. But the Journey slowly added new features. Rearview cameras became standard. Stability control was included. However, it still trails many rivals. It even lags behind its sibling, the Durango. That’s an honest assessment. The Journey was designed at a time. Safety tech wasn’t as widespread then. It struggled to catch up later on. This is a common challenge for older platforms.
Future Safety Trends in SUVs
The car world is moving fast. Safety technology is truly evolving. I am excited to see what comes next. AI will soon be in more cars. Artificial intelligence can study how you drive. It can even predict accidents. This allows for adaptive safety measures. Imagine your SUV stopping dangers before you even see them. This could change vehicle safety forever. Self-driving capabilities are also advancing. This will likely reduce human error. Human error causes most accidents. This makes the potential impact huge.
Electric SUVs are also pushing new designs. This presents a chance to rethink safety. Electric powertrains mean different layouts. We might see new battery placements. These could improve vehicle stability. They might also make cars safer in crashes. This shift could lead to even safer vehicles. Manufacturers will balance safety with performance and green tech. It’s a very positive outlook. Newer materials are being developed too. They offer even greater crash absorption. I am eager to see how these innovations shape our rides.
Counterarguments and Other Views
Both the Durango and Journey have good points. But critics often point to the Journey’s slower safety updates. They see this as a big problem. Some argue the Journey’s design feels old. This might make it less appealing. Especially to people who care about safety. Its lack of advanced features is a frequent complaint. People expect more safety tech today.
Some people also believe safety ratings aren’t everything. They might not be the only factor. Other things matter too, they argue. Performance is important. Comfort and looks also play a role. A car’s value extends beyond crash tests. They might prioritize cargo space. Or maybe they want a powerful engine. However, I believe safety must come first. A car’s main job is to keep you safe. You should never compromise on that. What if you love the looks but it doesn’t protect your family? Is that a real win?
Smart Steps for SUV Buyers
Are you looking for an SUV? Here are some tips. They will help you choose safely.
* Check crash ratings: Always look up [NHTSA and IIHS scores](https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings) for any car you like. This is your starting point.
* Prioritize advanced tech: Look for SUVs with specific features. Think about adaptive cruise control. Lane-keeping assist is great. Automatic emergency braking is also key. These are true accident preventers.
* Take a test drive: Get behind the wheel yourself. How does it feel? Are you comfortable and secure? Does it handle well?
* Think long-term safety: Research the vehicle’s safety record. Cars with consistent high ratings are often better bets. They are also more reliable. Also, check for recalls.
* Talk to your insurer: Insurance rates often reflect safety. Safer cars can mean lower premiums. That’s worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dodge SUVs and Safety
What is the overall safety rating for the Dodge Durango?
The 2021 Dodge Durango earned a five-star overall safety rating. This came from NHTSA testing. It performed really well.
How does the Dodge Journey’s safety compare?
The Journey got a four-star overall rating from NHTSA. Its IIHS ratings were mixed. This shows some weaknesses.
What advanced safety features are standard on the Durango?
It includes blind-spot monitoring. Rear cross-traffic alert is also standard. Multiple airbags are always there.
Are there big safety differences between the Durango and Journey?
Yes, the Durango offers more advanced safety features. It also generally has better crash test ratings. It’s a significant gap.
Why are crash test ratings important for car buyers?
Crash test ratings give vital safety information. They help you make smart choices. They show how a car protects people.
What does IIHS’s small overlap front test mean?
This test simulates hitting a narrow object. It checks how well the vehicle protects occupants in this specific crash type. It’s a tough test.
Do all Dodge Durango trims have the same safety features?
Standard features are usually consistent. But higher trims often add more advanced options. You can get more tech.
Can I add more safety features to a Dodge Journey after buying it?
Some aftermarket options exist. But factory-installed systems are generally more reliable. They are often integrated better.
How do side curtain airbags improve safety?
They deploy from the roof. They protect occupants’ heads in side impacts or rollovers. They are a critical safety component.
What is electronic stability control (ESC)?
ESC helps drivers keep control. It does this during extreme steering maneuvers. It can prevent skids. It’s a very important system.
Is there a correlation between price and safety ratings in SUVs?
Often, higher-priced vehicles offer more advanced safety tech. But good safety can be found across price points. Value matters.
What is rollover resistance in NHTSA ratings?
It assesses a vehicle’s likelihood of rolling over. This happens in a single-vehicle crash. Lower risk is better, of course.
Do older Dodge Durango models have similar safety features?
Older models might lack some newer tech. Safety features have evolved over time. Always check the specific year.
How often are vehicle safety ratings updated?
NHTSA and IIHS update ratings annually for new models. They also re-evaluate older designs sometimes. Keep an eye out.
What is automatic emergency braking (AEB)?
AEB systems detect potential collisions. They can warn the driver. They can also apply brakes automatically. It’s a lifesaver.
Does the weight of an SUV affect its safety rating?
Heavier vehicles can sometimes offer better protection. But design and features matter more. Weight is only one factor.
How important is the crumple zone in an SUV?
Crumple zones absorb crash energy. They protect occupants by deforming. They are absolutely vital for safety.
Conclusion: Making Safe Choices
Both the Dodge Durango and Dodge Journey have unique safety profiles. The Durango really shines with its strong crash test results. It also has many advanced safety features. This makes it a solid choice for many families. The Journey is a reliable vehicle. But it falls short in some areas. This is especially true for advanced safety tech. The automotive world keeps changing. It’s important for us to stay informed. We need to know about safety ratings and features. By doing this, we can make smart decisions. These decisions will keep ourselves safe. They also protect our loved ones on the road.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged strength of the Durango or the practical value of the Journey, I am happy to remind you that safety should always be a top priority in your vehicle choice.
