Dodge Journey Review

2009 Dodge Journey SXT Station Wagon Shown

Dodge may have decided to show up fashionably late to the midsize crossover SUV segment by finally entering the marketplace with its new Journey. But the crew that created the minivan has a few party tricks of its own. This company 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 propensity for muscular exterior styling and you have two factors that 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 regards to that aspect, the Journey is a success. Yet Dodge's freshman entry into this highly competitive category falls short of the benchmark set by some of its more refined competitors, 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 features, flexible seating, smooth ride and slew of storage spaces make it family-friendly. However, Dodge's crossover comes up short in a couple of areas. Despite its nifty touches, the interior isn't as refined in terms of overall design as other competing models. And on the road, due to significant body roll, a hefty curb weight and vague steering, the Journey simply isn't much fun to drive, even in the sporty R/T trim.

Still, the Journey is a noble initial effort by Dodge to enter the midsize crossover SUV market. Its performance lends itself more toward recreational-paced people moving and home improvement supply runs since spirited driving is best done only when absolutely necessary. But if child-friendly features and utilitarian practicality are what you prioritize, the Dodge Journey can deliver them.

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