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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  First SUV for Grandpa - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By James - October 28 - 2:43 am

  I am a Dodge die hard, bought the Journey after deciding that my 93 Dakota 4wd was out dated. Needed to keep a tow vehicle though as I have a small boat. Replacement vehicle needed to have decent towing capacity and all the latest safety features. So far this vehicle has proven to be very decent, good ride, extremely quiet, great interior storage. Like the radio controls on the steering wheel, very handy. V-6 very responsive, same HP as Dakota 318 v-8, this puppy will scoot when ask to, 6 speed trans works well. No towing info yet as hitch and wiring harness back ordered at dealership. I special order this vehicle and towing components should have been installed at factory, not the dealer.

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  I enjoy it - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By givinback - October 21 - 9:56 am

  Currently have less than 1,000 miles on the car It handles well, accelerates perfectly, drives very smooth. I have took it off road and the AWD is very responsive. Cargo space is excellent if you carry equipment.

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  EXCELLENT Vehicle Buy One! - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By MentorJourney SXTAWD - October 18 - 12:39 am

  A great car at a great price....a All Wheel Drive vehicle that can seat seven. Have not had any problems

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  So far so good! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Mr.Met - September 27 - 7:20 am

  We have owned it for about 2 weeks and really like it. Did a lot of research and for the price you cant beat the features or styling. It rides great, love the interior with the performance and safe and sound package.

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  Dodge doesnt stand behind their cars! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Lynn - September 16 - 4:30 am

  I leased a 2009 Dodge Journey in May "08". I had to replace the entire front break system at only 22,000 miles and the rear break system at 44,000. I was told it was normal wear and tear so they werent covered under warranty. The tires are very expensive, hard to find, and dont last. The so-called stain resistant interior is a complete joke. It has been such a horrible experience, I cant wait for my lease return date.

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  Great choice for us - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By seveninavan - August 30 - 6:36 pm

  Overall, I have been very happy with my decision to purchase the Journey. I traded in a Dodge Grand Caravan and initially planned to get another one, then I saw that the Journey held seven passengers---a must for us since we have five kids. Except for one small trim issue, everything works well. I mainly drive to work, soccer games, and boy scout camping trips. Got the SXT with roof rack and Sirius out the door for $19,600 and 0% financing--- about $12,000 less than the Ford Taurus X. So far, Ive been quite pleased. Morning carpools are easy, and when I need to haul stuff it is great to have the ability to stow the seats flat so quickly. I love it!

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  A Journey SE great value for the money! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Vince &Sara - August 2 - 4:26 am

  We purchased a Journey SE Plus 2.4 L (I believe model specific to Canada) we paid $22,973 for it. We feel a great amount of vehicle for the money. Its safe, roomy, quiet, decent build quality as well as fit and finish. The 2.4 is a little noisy upon acceleration and its not the fastest vehicle upon take off, BUT its definitely something we can live with. We drove it around 80 miles the first night we got it home (2 days ago=). We didnt want to get out of it. We find the seats to be supportive, with a great upright seating position,lots of leg and headroom both for front and rear passengers, ease of entry/exit, we like actually LIKE the basic uncomplicated instrumentation.

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  Excellent for a young family! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Yellow Cube - July 23 - 5:33 am

  I bought this crossover to replace my good ol Plymouth Neon. I was looking for a Patriot, loved it in the test drive but waited a few weeks... and bam! The Journey went out! I just couldnt thank myself for waiting. For about $5,000 (Canadian) less, I could have about everything a Patriot Limited Edition could offer me (except for the leather finish, which I didnt want anyway). I was happy for being able to buy my familly a new vehicule, but with the Journey, I managed to get options I would never think of at this price with the SE Plus and the Family Pack options. I am very pleased with it and even made a lot of noise when going to friends a family with this beautiful beast.

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  Too many problems - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By mrsrob - July 22 - 7:06 pm

  I didnt experience any problems until almost one year after I purchased it. The car would just shut off at times while at stoplight, I took it to the dealer each time this happened and after the third attempt they were able to finally correct the problem. Next my brakes and rotors needed to be replaced, I couldnt beleive a car with such low mileage would need brakes let alone rotors replaced! Now the engine light comes on while Im driving, and starts flashing and starts riding really rough as if going to stall out. I pull over restart the car and it drives fine again. Not to mention the interior issues, water stains on seats and torn insulation that frames doors. Poorly made car!

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  Never by a dodge again! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By sherry - July 13 - 12:40 am

  Loved the looks of this car. had never owned a dodge, and will never again. when first bought the car, the steering pulled to the right and steering wheel vibrated. Had it to dealership 6 times! It got a little better, not much. Then when summer came, the A/C started stinking. I thought the drain tube might be stopped up and took it in expecting an easy fix. Had it to dealership 4 times and they said they couldnt duplicate the problem. Called Daimler and was told to not run my A/C on recirc. Are you kidding! Took the car to another Dodge dealer and was left standing on the parking lot by the service manager! He said "dont know what to tell you" and walked away! Dont buy a journey!