Overview & Reviews

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.

The Journey features an in-betweener size that straddles the compact and midsize crossover segments. It offers cargo and passenger room similar to that of larger compact SUVs, but like a midsize model, offers a more substantial feel and an available third-row seat. As such, the Journey strikes an interesting blend of utility and comfort for families. Unfortunately, early Journeys fell well short of most rivals, particularly in regards to driving dynamics and interior refinement. Major improvements made to the Journey a few years after its debut have rectified most of the model's past ills, but in general, this Dodge lacks the general overall refinement of newer competitors.

Current Dodge Journey
The Dodge Journey is offered in five trim levels: American Value Package (AVP), SE, SXT, Limited and R/T. The entry-level AVP, SE and SXT models come standard with a rather weak 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 173 horsepower, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is sluggish and fuel economy is subpar, so we highly recommend going with the 3.6-liter V6 (optional on the SXT and standard on the Limited and R/T). Its fuel economy and acceleration are mediocre at best, but it can at least get the Journey moving with some authority. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control is standard, as is front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is offered as an option.

Even the entry-level AVP and SE trims come very well equipped, with notable features including dual-zone manual climate control, keyless ignition/entry, a sliding and reclining second-row seat, a touchscreen audio interface and USB/iPod connectivity.

As is typical for this class, there is an abundance of luxury and convenience features available by stepping up to one of the upper trim levels. These include power front seats, leather upholstery, heated seats, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a navigation system and premium audio. Parents and kids alike should appreciate the available built-in child booster seats and DVD entertainment system.

Unlike the first few model years of the Journey, this equipment comes packed into an attractive interior with nice materials and solid construction. There are also myriad storage solutions that increase appeal, with containers that double as coolers and an innovative hidden compartment under the front passenger seat cushion. In terms of space, the Journey's first two rows offer comfort and versatility. The third row is very short on legroom and suitable for small children only, but is nevertheless a rare feature for SUVs of this size. Cargo space is roughly on par with the larger compact crossovers.

As we've noted in reviews, the Dodge Journey has impressed us with its flexible seating and smooth ride. But the base four-cylinder engine is underpowered and lacks any significant fuel savings. The V6 is the engine to get, but in general, the Journey is one of the oldest crossovers on the market and is greatly overshadowed by newer competitors.

Used Dodge Journey Models
The Dodge Journey was introduced for the 2009 model year in SE, SXT and R/T trim levels. We weren't very impressed with these 2009 and '10 models. Besides the weak base four-cylinder engine that carries on today, the other engine option was a lackluster 3.5-liter V6 that made only 235 hp. No matter which engine you went with, acceleration was either slow or glacial. Other Journey drawbacks included soggy handling, vague steering, cheap interior materials, dated design and poor build quality.

For 2011, the Journey was significantly overhauled, and we would suggest considering only models produced from this year onward. That year's refresh brought about a more powerful and efficient V6, revised suspension tuning and a completely redesigned interior with better materials, tighter construction and a smarter control layout. The improvements in ride quality and steering feel made the Journey more competitive with the top-ranked crossovers in this class. Since then, changes have essentially been limited to a shuffling of trim levels and equipment.

User Reviews:

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  Great Car - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By Jim - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Traded in my 2004 Dakota Quad Cab 4x4 for the Journey and for the first time in more than 30 years am not driving a pickup. With all seats folded, I can easily carry 8 lumber in the car. On the rare occasion I need to haul more, I use a small utility trailer. In the process, I have a smaller, more economical, and more fun to drive vehicle. The AWD shoud get me through the snow this winter. I went to the dealer expecting to buy a Ford Escape, but left with the Journey. I have not been sorry for a moment I bought the Journey instead. My only real problem is keeping my wife from stealing it and leaving me with her 2008 Taurus (which is a great car, but the Journey is more fun).

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  No Brakes - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By mommy22 - October 3 - 2:00 am

  Like everyone else I am having brake and rotor problems, mine were at 14,000 mi, I was lucky as a "one time customer courtesy they were only charging me $100.00 deductible"

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  A good Economical Crossover - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By priced right - October 3 - 2:00 am

  I have read a lot of Edmunds reviews and I have grown weary of their apparent car snobbishness and demand for perfection. There is no perfect vehicle. For the money I find that my new base model Dodge Journey is comfortable, adequately powered, and very roomy. For those who do not expect the moon and the stars from our ride, I find driving the 2010 Journey to be a pleasant experience that is not overshadowed by glaring defects. The ride is comfortable, and for having a four banger under the hood, it does what needs to be done without blocking traffic. Bottom line, the Journey is a satisfactory family SUV that is easy on the budget and will take where you want to go in relative comfort.

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  Brakes & Other Issues - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Danenne - September 29 - 2:00 am

  Weve had our car now for 17 months and my brakes are already going out on it. I previously owned a Dodge Neon for 6 years, and Never had to replace the brakes and I drove it all the time everywhere. This vehicle I dont drive often and it seems like its falling apart already! The trims have been falling off piece by piece since we bought it. The stains on the seats wont come out, even with the stain guard. I hear weird noises on the car and the transmissions seems to run rough and the car takes a while to build up acceleration speed. Otherwise I really like the car, but Im beginning to wonder if its a bit of a lemon!

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  This is the worst vehicle - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By Sickofitinnc - September 29 - 2:00 am

  First of all the air bag light should not keep coming on - took it in 8 times and they finally fixed it. Now makes a terrible noise when idling - has cut off on me once and hesitates after cranking. Do not buy this car - I agree an expensive mistake!

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  A Fun Journey - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Satisfied in Amsterd - September 25 - 2:00 am

  Sharp looking vehicle and reliable. The car is a fair price for what you get. Plenty of storage space and comfortable to take long trips in. The only improvement that I feel is necessary to this point would be to soften the metal edges on the track where you slide your seat back and forth. It is rather sharp and you can cut legs on this getting in and out of vehicle. I hope I enjoy the next 18,000 without any troubles.

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  Mine is going bye bye! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By chip - September 23 - 2:00 am

  Well, after 30 months of wondering what will go wrong next. Tomorrow is my lucky day I am returning this car to the dealership where it came from. Last weekend I bought a Nissan awd and they paid off my final lease payments. Its so sad. This could be/should be a good car. And I feel so bad for anyone thinking of getting one or that has just gotten one. They have no idea what they are in for. Lesson learned. Do your research before you sign for a new car. I feel like buying a huge billboard someplace to vent my disappointment in this car. About the only good thing I can say is that it was good in snow but the four tires only lasted through one winter. And they are very expensive.

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  Caught fire - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By bcon - September 23 - 2:00 am

  Well the wife needed a 7 passenger auto for the kids. We decided on the journey r/t. After 12k miles needed new breaks. After a year new $211.00 a tire tires. As my wife was driving home she noticed a smoke smell pulled over and the engine compartment was on fire with my 2 year old in the car. Dodge says its was not their fault but how does a 2009 new car just catch fire. Its impossible to reach any one at Dodge. If you value your life and the life of your family dont buy

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  Brake problems - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By cynthia - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought the journey r/t model in August of 09. At 12,000 mile they had to replace the front rotors and pads. Just took it back in at 16,000 mile they had to replace the fronts again and now the backs they say are shot. Had it in on several occasions before for electrical problems. Everything is fine otherwise and the r/t model is much better but the brake problems are getting to be too much. There is a class action law suit against Dodge for the brake problems.

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  Stuck with a lemmon - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Regina Benoit - September 21 - 2:00 am

  I like so many other consumers is very disappointed with my purchase of the 09 Journey. At 25,000 miles I had to have the front brake pads and rotors replaced on my car. I replaced all 4 tires before my car was a year old. After having the car 3 months the motor on the drivers side door had to be replaced. 5 months later the battery had to be replaced. I cant believe Ive had so many problems with a new car. I drove a Chevy Tahoe for 8 years before purchasing the Journey. I didnt start having problems with the Tahoe until I had 200,000 miles on it. I will never buy another Chrysler product and I have told Family and Friends to not buy Chrysler cars.