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:

• 

  Im hurt - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Maddie - August 5 - 1:02 pm

  My doors unlock by themselves, windows roll down, lights come on without me even starting the car. Ive been to the dealer at least ten times to be told they cannot find the trouble. My car has been broken into 4 times because people walk by and see my open. They are hoping to find money. Family Dodge Please help me.

• 

  Miss my Pacifica - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By Ben - August 4 - 9:55 am

  Traded "05 Pacifica Ltd. and am having regrets. I forgot how much the Mercedes input meant! I like the Journey but am disappointed in interior. The seats are narrow and stiff. May be too many hidden storage units for a kids grown couple. I purchased black leather and it looks and feels like vinyl. Mileage is better but it will take a while to forget the luxury of the Pacifica.

• 

  Bad Brakes - Recall Needed - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Builders - August 2 - 1:59 pm

  I gave it a 2 in Build Quality because of this. Breaks were oxidizing and the calipers would release, but the brake pads would not. So the brake pads were constantly rubbing the rotors. They said they have seen this issue many times before but Chrysler was not addressing the issue. My dealership treated me well, but this issue should be remedy. I called the recall department and they stated there were no recalls for this matter, but advised me to go to NHTSA.gov and state my complaint. They will not start an investigation into this matter until they receive a larger consensuses of complaints so if you have this issue please speak up so something will be done.

• 

  Journey from hell, totally dissatisfied - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Sorry owner - July 28 - 11:04 pm

  Happy at first until staining on cloth seats, paid extra for "stain resistant" spray on seats. Funny noise when turning sharply to the left, when starting car sometimes engine runs but no air, radio, or lights. Auto Windows only work when they feel like it, many plastic pieces have broken off on interior, dash replaced 3 times, brakes had to be replaces along with rotors at low miles, needed new tires after 1 yr (very expensive) kuhmo is only option of tire. Tire problem causing vibration in steering wheel, then second vibration was improperly installed drive shaft (almost fell out!) most recent is car wont start randomly, dealership unable to duplicate problem. Do not buy this car!

• 

  Worst car Ive ever owned - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Cheryl - July 20 - 2:03 pm

  Owned this car for 11 months now. Wish I had never bought it. Not worth 1/2 of what I paid for it. Sunroof leaked and had to be replaced within a few months of purchase. Paint peeling off front bumper already. No power, lucky if I can keep it up to 30 mph going through the mountains unless going downhill. Ive driven a mini van that performed better. Terrible in the snow and now the brake pads are already completely gone. Radio quits working sometimes. Wish I had kept my Toyota.I plan to get rid of it soon and never buy another Dodge.

• 

  Great ride turning sour - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By KB - July 18 - 8:47 pm

  We bought the 4 cylinder last year because it had the best Cash for Clunkers incentive that fit right in my budget. I was thrilled in the beginning and enjoyed very much the ride, style and comfort. Eventually I found myself visiting the dealership with some issues quite often than anticipated. Ive owned several toyotas and wouldnt need to change my oil frequently or let alone change brakes before 36,000 Miles. To date, Ive needed wheel alignment, changed the rack & pinion and wheel bearings. Now, I need new front brake pads and rotor! What a major disappointment :( I thought I my driving was erratic but seeing all the other reviews made me realize that the car is junk.

• 

  2 Years - 2 Brake Jobs and more - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Ann - July 16 - 12:13 pm

  Plan on getting new brakes every 15,000 miles. 2 brake jobs in 2 years and now its in the shop for electrical system failure. The AC, turn signals and radio dont come on. Getting everything fixed is a problem.

• 

  Loved it until - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By MommaWhitney - July 4 - 8:39 pm

  I loved this car and it was perfect for our growing family. It fits 2 very big car seats including one that is rear facing with hardly any problems. It has tons of storage for the kids toys and anything extra. And I love the all around look of the car. BUT at around 2 yrs (20,000 miles) I started having very similar problems as all the other reviewers. Even my mother in law who bought one right after me was having the same issues. Im sad to say that the way dodge is handling the problems of 2009 journeys is going to cost them many customers. Its not worth buying a new car when you have to replace it two years later. Which is what I will be doing tomorrow, if I can trade it in for what I owe!

• 

  A value leader - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By GIO - July 2 - 8:15 am

  After reading " Motor Trend " positive expert review and "Yahoo" users group on the Dodge Journey it certainly re-enforced my decision to purchase it. Since I have been extremely satisfied with my reliable 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan it was really a no brainer. At only $21,165 sticker price it was the least costly in it`s class. It`s roomier and has more cargo space than others. The 4 cylinder is no powerhouse but it`s certainly adequate. The ride is quiet, and handling is good. Bottom line is if you want something significantly better you are going to have to pay significantly more. There`s just no free lunch.

• 

  Premature brake, rotor and caliper problem - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By tatumfamily - July 1 - 4:56 pm

  Bought may 2008! Squealing brakes jan 2009! Replaced of all brakes April 2009. Sept 2009 squealing starts again. Dec 2009 was told front brakes need to be replaced. Feb 2010 front brakes replaced! April 2010 squealing come back. June 2010 back brakes replaced and caliper torn and replaced as well! My Camry is 5 yrs old, my husbands truck that we traded in for this journey was 4 yrs old! Never was or has a brake been replaced! Car is 2 yrs old! More to story but the point is: please call Dodge and file a complaint! I already have. I also have put in a complaint at www.nhtsa.gov and www.bbb.com please also do this! Takes a minute but well worth my familys safety!