The Dodge Journey is Chrysler's small crossover SUV, with seating for either five or seven, depending on equipment. It's available in five different trim levels: American Value, SE, SXT, Crew and R/T.
Two engines are available: a 2.4L 4-cylinder and a 3.6L V6. The 4-cylinder makes 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, while maintaining an EPA estimated fuel mileage of 19 city and 26 highway. The 3.6L V6 makes 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, with fuel mileage estimated at 17 city and 25 highway. The American Value and SE come standard with the 4-cylinder engine, while all others come with the V6.
The Journey comes with front-wheel drive in all trims, and the SXT, Crew and R/T are available with an all-wheel drive powertrain. 4-cylinder equipped models feature a 4-speed automatic transmission, while all others feature a 6-speed unit. Towing capacities are rated as 1,000 pounds for the 4-cylinder and 2,500 pounds for the V6.
The American Value Journey starts at a bargain price while maintaining a solid feature list that includes the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, an audio system that includes a USB port and touch-screen display, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and power windows and locks.
All Journeys come with an array of standard safety features, including driver and passenger airbags, front-side airbags and curtain side airbags that extend to all seating rows. Also available are anti-lock brakes, an anti-skid system and traction control.
A host of options are available on the Journey, depending on the trim level selected. A third-row 50/50 split folding bench seat and 3-zone climate control are available on all Journeys, even on the American Value. The Popular Equipment Package includes leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, aluminum wheels and a trip computer. The Premium Group includes daytime running lamps, power seats and SIRIUS satellite radio. On the SXT, a ParkView rear backup camera is available. Navigation and a rear-seat video system become optional on the Crew and R/T.
Good Handling For A Small SUV, Seating For Up To Seven, Available All-wheel Drive, Powerful V6 Engine
The Journey is essentially unchanged from 2012. Minor improvements include the SE models getting 17-inch wheels, up from 16-inch last year.
The Dodge Journey competes in the crowded small SUV and crossover market. Offering a wide range of model choices, the Journey can be optioned up quite nicely despite its low base price. A more powerful than average V6 available makes it reasonably quick for this segment of vehicles.
