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:

• 

  This cant be happening - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By FRUSTRATED - August 1 - 4:40 pm

  I purchased our vehicle in May 08 with 2200 miles on it. I have had nothing but problems with it since. From recall after recall, to the brakes and rotors having to be replaced at 24,000 miles, and now having a major stalling issue. Even after the dealership says there are no recalls and several disgruntled phone calls my vehicle is still hesitating and trying to stall. My advise to anyone who thinks of purchasing this particular vehicle. READ THE REVIEWS FIRST! You will be sorry if you dont!

• 

  Nice Car, just happy I leased! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By jb - July 31 - 2:46 pm

  started leasing the car in july 08, from there the trouble started. first had an issue with the ac. brought it in, fixed it no problem. then the trouble with the steering when turning left started, Im assuming the same problem with many journey owners. brought it in 3 times, although it has gotten better it is still there. Now, for the past month and half, theres been a burning smell coming out of the hood. brought it in and service tech said that when i got an oil change they must of spilt some oil on the manifold and that it should burn off in 2 weeks. this was a month ago. besides all of this, we enjoy the car. Im just happy we leased it instead of purchasing it.

• 

  Love my Journey - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By LIFE IS GOOD - July 26 - 2:53 pm

  I love this vehicle. Smoothest ride I have ever had, it feels like I am gliding down the road. I have owned a Jeep liberty, rav4, Blazer, Camry. This is the best ride by far. Handles great!

• 

  Love my Journey! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Sundance - May 15 - 7:10 pm

  When my Saab 9-3 was in the shop, the rental car agency gave me a Journey. I fell in love with it immediately. Long story short, retired the Saab after 10 years of driving and bought a Journey. Lots of conveniences that make travel with 2 and 4 year olds a breeze. Lots of room for groceries, stroller, toys, change of clothes. No third seat in mine, so I have a great area for changing a diaper when on the road. Some little quirks (like a vibration in the dash over 55 MPH that sounds like a bee) but I expect they can be taken care of. Great price, and great mileage -- much better than the EPA estimate. If I had it to do over, I would buy another in a heartbeat.

• 

  Great vehicle for the money - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Greg - May 2 - 8:33 pm

  This vehicle has to be one of the best made vehicles I have driven. Very comfortable ride. Tracks well on wet or dry roads. Handles bumps extremely well.

• 

  Wifes car - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Ryan - April 27 - 5:40 pm

  I dont get to drive this a lot it is the wifes car. She absolutely loves it. I like the AWD and the styling. Add some pin striping and it really makes this vehicle look good. Would recommend this crossover vehicle to anyone not wanting a minivan.

• 

  Was hoping for better - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By usmc - April 6 - 2:36 pm

  As soon as I drove this car home, there was a squeak on the drivers side undercarriage. I took it back and it was fixed in a jiffy .. something hadnt been tightened down. When I turn on the A/C there is a "shushing" noise. I need to get that checked out too. Also, it doesnt seem to me that the rear window defroster is working at all. I have put 3500 miles on it since I bought it in Feb.09, with no problems other than what I first mentioned. It is quiet on the road and has enough zip when I need it. The seats show dirt quickly so I have to stay on top of that. The wiper blades are not good quality. They squeak and streak, so Im not happy about that. Decent gas mileage.

• 

  Family Truckster - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Paul K - March 24 - 4:10 am

  This vehicle is by far the best in its class, and priced well for quality and performance it delivers. As many first set of brakes were replaced at 12K, but under warranty. Dealer adv that Dodge is making improvement to the brake pads soon. The V-6 with quick shift option is great. The national safety ratings are excellant. Only complaint city MPG could be better, but again my wife drives like she trying out for pole position in NASCAR. The under hidden storage, beverage (in dash), built in power converter, and recharging flash light, and rear doors that open 180 degrees are options you wont find in an import. Would by again..

• 

  A Good Purchase... - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By The Madd Bulldog - February 12 - 1:26 am

  Overall, I am very happy with my Journey... its put together very well, is comfortable, and has an "edge" to it. Was definitely worth the purchase price.

• 

  Get rid of 19" tire option - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By Mbardsley - February 9 - 8:53 pm

  My wife really wanted the 19" wheel package, giving the vehicle a bigger look. Wow, did we learn. This was a Demo unit, when dodge dealers closing, so got a great deal, almost 10,000 off. We have gone through 2 of the 19" Kumho tires. They are way to soft, cant get them aftermarket. Discount tires is Dealer for Kohmo, but fount like 1 tire in texas. New dealer does not care, since we did not buy from them, oh well. No warranty, take it up with Kohmo. They want $360 per tire for replacement. Only tire made in that size or even close.