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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  Worried owner - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By J Arthur Lanteigne - August 16 - 12:56 pm

  At times when turning key to start car will not turn over. After a few tries it turns over but it makes me very nervous. I took to Circle Dodge in Brick NJ and they said they could not duplicate condition nor could they identify my VIN number.

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  Drive to THE ROCK! - 2016 Dodge Journey
  By Vpalmer - August 10 - 4:39 pm

  I researched SUVs of all makes since Jan 16, (this is when my second vehicle went to car heaven ...it was 14 years old). Yes, Im very analytical, and when it comes to my cold hard earned cash... darn right Im going to do some homework! I went to a Hyundai dealership in Rockwall, (waste of time, as no one was willing to deal, their loss). I then went to dealership right next door... GREAT PEOPLE! They did all they could to get me into a Honda CRV.....(it was almost a sell, those cars are awesome, but without me doing research, and without knowing exactly what trim/ package I wanted I was not going to make a hasty decision! )Although their offers were FABULOUS, and were willing to earn my business with the extras... I just had my heart set on my Dodge Journey, and I was going to find it or go home and start researching the Honda CRV!! They even called me (although too late) to let me know they could get me what I wanted from one of their sister dealerships... NOW thats great customer SERVICE and customer follow up! I purchased a Certified Pre-Owned from ROCKWALL DODGE. Melvin my sales person was fabulous, he took our offers seriously and we made the deal. There was a miscommunication snafu regarding add-ons, but this company was quick, fast, and in a hurry to make any misconceptions on my part or sales persons part to make it RIGHT! ROCKWALL DODGE wanted to make me happy not only right then, but in the long years to come, not only with my vehicle... but with my entire experience! They have! Job well done ROCKWALL DODGE!! (The only thing is I am missing the key to my wheel locks!, I didnt check before driving home, Im sure this can too be resolved... these guys are great!!) The vehicle is immaculate inside and out; there is one "miniature" ding on the passenger rear door, and it took me a while to find it after I got home. My vehicle is a V-6 FWD however, not 4cyl AWD. I love the "beastly power" when I need it, I love knowing its there, though I try not to abuse it. (wink) My gas mileage from Rockwall to my drive way was just under 400 miles and I was still able to go to work my first week after coming home without having to fill the tank! (20-25 miles daily). The color is equivalent to a well tailored business mans power gray suit! (place wolf call here). The cargo space is AMAZING, with the third row, I simply keep it laid down for my ladder, and I still have plenty of room for vacation luggage, there are also lots and lots of secret embedded compartments for added storage. The only thing I will be adding to this new love in my life is a AMP step for both sides of the vehicle that will drop for me when I open the door. Im 50 nothing, and enjoy climbing on things normally, but Im at a point in life when I can afford to do things the easy way. So ladies... dont be afraid of this vehicle, it handles like a dream and if you have kids with lots of stuff, and they have friends with lots of stuff, youll still have plenty of room for your stuff.

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  The Journey Begins - 2016 Dodge Journey
  By Scott Lane - July 12 - 7:24 am

  There are a couple of different styles and I was shown the bells and whistles first. I had to settle for the one with less options and feel jilted.

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  Great Family Vehicle - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By nl1223 - July 6 - 3:50 pm

  This has been a great vehicle for me and my 2 girls. On the 3rd day we had the Journey, we went on a camping trip. It held all our gear and supplies easily. The seats and the handling made the 6 hour drive a breeze. When my girls want to take a couple of friends along, its no problem with the 3rd row seat. As a busy, single mom, I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Vibration at 45 MPH and up - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By tin - July 3 - 7:30 am

  I just bought AWD sxt Journey this past week. AS soon as I drove out of the parking lot and onto the highway starting to excelerate to 45mph the car start to shake, seem like from the rear. The next morning with 80 miles on the gauge I stop in the dealer to have it check. They told me it needs a new rear right axel and discovered that the right rear tire had a defect in it too. Took a week to get the parts. The dealer shop put it on and I was excited to finally get to drive my new car until, the mechanic call back and told me the problem still there. What a disappointment! On a lighter note. It drove nice, looks nice but next time I will think twice before too loyal to American car

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  Finally a SUV for a realistic price! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By BBall Mom - June 23 - 6:43 pm

  Just purchased my first SUV yesterday. Previously I had Chrysler Town & Country LXI for 6 years and wanted something sporty but yet roomy enough for my children. Pricing is very reasonable for a SUV type vehicle. I went with the XLT w/o the 3rd row seat. Both versions have plenty of room. I purchased the black with silver chrome wheels very stylish. I am very happy with my purchased!

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  expensive choice - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By jc2009 - June 16 - 10:43 am

  I have had squeaking in my brakes from the first week. My transmission jerks and have had it checked repeatedly. Car hops when turning. It floats and is hard to control on the freeway. It leaked so bad that the back floor compartments were full of water, the carpets molded and they had to glue all the seams. They were so cheap they left the removable carpets instead of replacing them although the Journey logo came off due to water damage. Now my front brakes are metal to metal after a week ago of being told they were safe . 600-700 to do the brakes . Dodge needs to recall these for wiring, the brakes and the leaks. I will never buy a dodge again.

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  Excellent Choice - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Journeyman - May 12 - 2:10 am

  I absolutely love this vehicle! After shopping around, we decided on a Journey for its combination of basic features and price. Our red V6 R/T cruises effortlessly, noiselessly and comfortably. It sits 7 and the layout is ingenious. Elegant, less nerd than a mini van. Fun and well designed. Wholeheartedly recommend.

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  my leaky boat - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By d manuel - May 6 - 7:43 am

  i had my journey in twice to repair a major leak still leaking booking another appointment today floods drivers side have 3 inches of water in the floor storage compartment.My seats are a mess if i open my doors in the rain or snow water drops stain my seats .cant be cleaned.dealer says dymler will not accept responsibility

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  Not a happy camper - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Not a happy camper - May 5 - 12:53 am

  I purchased my 2009 Journey in Sept. of 2008. I had 13,000.00 mile on the car when my breaks went. The dealership said they are not covered. My driver side heat seat burns my back and doesnt heat your butt. While driving I heard a huge bang like I hit something and then the heat seat (drivers) stopped working. My car wont go over 45mph, it was putting and when I got to the dealership they told me it was fine.This is bull crap! Passenger side window does not go up from the drivers side button. Its ok for them to sell you the car but they dont want to cover anything. this is why I bought a brand new car so I wouldnt have problems. thats all I have. seat fabric is horrible.oil lt. always on