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Dodge Journey Review



Dodge has a proven track record of creating vehicles that can quickly transform from people mover to cargo hauler with minimal fuss. Add to that Dodge's characteristically muscular exterior styling treatment, and you have factors that make the Journey stand out in a crowded room.

As a crossover SUV with available seating for seven passengers, the Dodge Journey is appealing to families wanting something versatile and stylish. 

Current Dodge Journey

The Dodge Journey is an all-new model for the 2009 model year. It's built on the Dodge Avenger/Chrysler Sebring platform, and therefore shares a similar suspension design and powertrain selection. There are three trim levels: base SE, midlevel SXT and the top-trim R/T. The base level SE packs a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine rated at 173 horsepower and mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Both the midlevel SXT and top-of-the-line R/T share a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 235 hp. These models come with a six-speed automatic. As is typical for this type of vehicle, the Journey can be ordered with either front-wheel drive or, on the SXT and R/T, all-wheel drive.

The Journey's interior receives a dose of inspiration from Dodge's minivans. There's a wealth of storage containers that double as coolers and an innovative hidden compartment under the flip-up front passenger seat cushion. The second-row seats adjust fore and aft to allow a parent riding shotgun easier access to children seated there. Integrated child booster seats for that row are also optional. In standard trim, the Journey seats five people with adequate legroom and can hold up to seven with optional third-row seating; both of them fold flat for additional cargo capacity. Major optional interior appointments include a hard-drive-based multimedia system, a rear-seat entertainment system, a navigation system and a sunroof.

In reviews, we've found that the Dodge Journey's flexible seating, smooth ride and slew of storage spaces make it family-friendly. If these features are what you prioritize, then the Journey is a sensible choice.