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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  I love this car! - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By Kathy - December 17 - 3:30 pm

  In November I went car shopping, tried this car & loved it. After I bought it, I read the 2009 reviews & thought what have I done. This vehicle is very roomy & comfortable. The price was right and gas mileage is good. Very quiet & comfortable ride.

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  dodge journey - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By dodge - December 15 - 10:05 am

  i enjoy driving yhe car it is very comfortable and get good highway mileage 25.8 on a 900 mile trip. the quality of fit and finish is excellent.this car is chryslers best kept secret.

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  The worse handling I have ever seen - 2016 Dodge Journey
  By Joey - December 13 - 7:49 am

  Make a sharp turn at 30 miles per hour and it leans heavy, I mean real heavy, like ready to rollover. Should not be allowed on the road. Totally unsafe. The death mobile !

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  Ever So quiet - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By wooda - December 12 - 7:01 pm

  very quiet, awd very good in snow, in side good but could better,cup holders badly placed, door panels need improvement, fun to drive.

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  new dodge journey - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By e-mae - December 5 - 1:39 pm

  has all options, love it,great running vehicle,lots of power, people stop me to ask about it, also take pictures of it. finally figured out to get over drive for econ gas. i would recommend this vehicle to everyone.

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  So Far, So Good - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Dave & Debi H - December 4 - 8:46 pm

  My wife says this car drives itself and she is not far from the truth. It has it all, and has gotten rave reviews from all of our friends who have seen it.

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  Amazing alternative to a minivan - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By Harvey - December 1 - 11:15 am

  We love our new Journey! It gets much better fuel economy then any minivan we looked at. And best of all its not a minivan. More like an SUV that handles like a car. The cargo space is quite exceptional as are how easy it is to lie down all the seats (including the passenger seat) perfectly flat. The third row was a must for us and though it feels a bit tight, it is much roomier than any other third row seat option from any other crossover that we tried out. Weve gotten much better fuel economy than its EPA rating would suggest. The cargo compartments can store items like a cooler for drinks and the interior is quite spacious.

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  Buy It - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By DRD - November 28 - 12:50 pm

  I was very skeptical about buying this vehicle after reading the review from this website.I am very impressed with the quality of build,exterior looks and comfort of this crossover.I would recommend it to anyone looking for a inexpensive good looking crossover with many premium standard features at a more than competitive price.I have purchased many new cars in my 60yrs and few have made me as happy as this one.

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  Looked Around - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Randy - November 15 - 8:43 pm

  It was an easy choice after looking around at foreign crossovers. Sitting in the Journey, even without driving it, sold it to us. Roomy compared to its foreign counterparts and extremely comfortable. It is a great transition family car for those wanting to move away from the "van" look yet maintaining the ability to transport your kids and their friends. Very happy with our first 1500 miles on it. Extremely comfortable and easy to drive. While some of the interior plastics arent what I would call "quality" looking, they are functional and easy to clean and maintain. Wouldnt go back to the "van" for nothing!

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  One of the best cars I have owned - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By John Putnam - November 5 - 1:42 pm

  Im enjoying my Dodge Journey more than any car (including BMWs) Ive owned in quite a few years. I look for reasons just to go somewhere in it. Great car at a great price.