Dodge Journey Review

2010 Dodge Journey R/T SUV Shown

Dodge showed up late to the midsize crossover SUV segment, finally entering the marketplace with the Dodge Journey. But the company that created the minivan has some party tricks of its own. 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 two factors that can help the Journey stand out in a crowded room.

As a crossover SUV with available seating for seven passengers, the Dodge Journey is meant to appeal to families wanting something versatile, but also more stylish than a minivan. In this respect, the Journey is a success. Unfortunately, Dodge's first entry in this highly competitive category falls well short of the benchmark set by some of its more refined rivals, particularly in regards to driving dynamics and interior refinement.

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 may be a sensible choice. However, Dodge's crossover comes up short in a couple of areas. Despite its nifty touches, the interior isn't as impressive in terms of overall design as other competing models, and materials quality is not good. On the road, the Journey suffers from significant body roll and remarkably vague steering. Handling may not be high on Journey shoppers' list of concerns, but this crossover is the wrong kind of adventure behind the wheel. Even in sporty R/T trim, the Journey is more of a chore to drive than we'd like. Note that the base four-cylinder engine's performance borders on the unacceptable -- you'll be much happier with the V6.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.