The term “sporty” has been used for a variety of SUVs, but it’s used more often when we see a model with more power than the standard trim.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at two massive SUVs that have been called sporty. The Dodge Durango SRT and the Chevrolet Tahoe RST are compared together to offer you a look at what the can be for the fun you want on the road. With that in mind, we need to compare the two and see which one could be right for you.

Sporty is a Stretch

Both of these SUVs are three-row models that sit at or near the top of their class to give you the power and performance you need when it’s time to carry the entire family on the road. The Tahoe with the RST package brings you a powerful engine, black features that show a sinister side, and upgraded performance parts. The Durango SRT is an angry looking SUV with a big hood scoop, heat extractors, and impressive performance parts to make it easier for you to take this SUV seriously.

Getting Inside for a Look

From the outside, you can see the Tahoe is much larger than the Durango, and the same is true inside the cabin. The Tahoe is big and brawny with an accommodating cabin that feels comfortable and enjoyable for a family to experience the drive. Getting into the Durango, it’s obvious you’re in a cabin that’s different from the rest of the lineup. This model shows off with bright colors and large screens. One difference you’ll certainly notice when you drive is the noise level, which is much greater in the Durango, giving you an enjoyable exhaust note to experience.

Where the Power Resides

Looking under the hood of both of these large SUVs you’re going to see impressive power for the ride. The Chevy Tahoe RST makes use of the new 6.2-liter V8 engine that’s added to the lineup while the Dodge Durango SRT is riding with the Hemi power that comes from a 6.4-liter V8 engine. The Chevy brings you 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque for the drive while being attached to a ten-speed automatic transmission. The Durango brings you 475 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque which is routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission for the drive.

Getting On the Road

While the Tahoe RST is certainly a more powerful version of the SUV, there isn’t any specific sport mode or anything that makes this big SUV feel like it going to take on the track and perform. This vehicle is large and powerful with the availability of 4WD and the ability to pull up to 8,100 pounds to make this SUV the right choice when you want more power and the ability to pull your toys. Don’t get fooled into thinking this is a sporty model, it’s simply more powerful.
On the other hand, the Durango SRT is an SUV that has actual performance numbers. This SUV brings you the performance features needed and has the ability to run a quarter-mile in only 12.9 seconds while also offering the possibility of reaching sixty mph in only 4.4 seconds. This SUV has different drive modes to give you the power split you need including Auto, Snow and Tow, Sport, and Track modes. Dodge built this SUV to be a performance model that can also tow up to 8,700 pounds when you need it to get more work done for you.

The Verdict is Clear

If you’re shopping for actual performance from the ground up, the Dodge Durango SRT brings more of what you’re looking for. When you want more comfort and a larger size, the Chevrolet Tahoe RST brings what you’re looking for and can be the perfect model for your drive. It’s actually pretty clear that the Durango is the “sporty” model between these two, but both are impressive SUVs that can offer you what you’re looking for. Make the right choice and have the fun you want whether you haul a boat, run fast laps at the track, or just want to have an excellent drive.
Compare Specs
2018 Dodge Durango SRT
Advantage 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe RST
475 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque Durango 420 hp, 460 lb-ft
8-Speed Auto Tahoe 10-Speed Auto
15 Tahoe 17 MPG
15.6 Tahoe 13.8
17.2 – 84.5 Tahoe 15.3 – 94.7
490 – 2,393 Tahoe 433 – 2,681
8,700 lbs Durango 8,100 lbs