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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  Just check it out for yourself...a pleasant surprise - 2015 Dodge Journey
  By ek900 - December 23 - 11:49 am

  We went into 3-row crossover shopping with the Journey not on the list, and ended up liking it so much we special ordered! We test drove the Hyundai Santa Fe, Buick Enclave, Mazda Cx9, and Nissan Pathfinder, but we really liked the packaging of the Journey a lot better. We got a Crossroad model, FWD, with the V6, and I would recommend it. What sold us on the Journey was simply how much better the interior was packaged for us. Its got plenty of room without being as big as some others. The seats are very comfortable and there is storage everywhere. Plus, we got the integrated booster seats, and they are so well-designed it is amazing to me they arent available on other SUVs.

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  Very happy - 2015 Dodge Journey
  By chines1 - December 17 - 1:20 pm

  What is Edmunds on? I guess if its not Toyota or Honda they have nothing nice to say. Ive had it for a month now with almost 1500 miles on it and I love it. I do have the 6 cyl and find the go to be more than adequate. No issues with acceleration or braking in the least. Handling is excellent and responsive. I love this car. Great size, great price, great features. I currently have ZERO complaints on this car. With mixed driving that leans a bit more towards city, Im easily getting 20 MPG and Im a fairly aggressive driver. (Seriously, I have enjoyed the heck out of the 6 cyl in this car) I suspect a nice MPG on longer trips.

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  You wont find a better car for the money! - 2015 Dodge Journey
  By 1wickedwarlock - December 15 - 7:08 pm

  Okay... Im all about being fair in life... And Edmunds review of this car is WAY off... Ive owned a 2012 Dodge journey for going on 3 years now. And to date.. I have not regretted my purchase once.. Thats not to say there are not things I would change about the car. But for them to say the 3.6 six in this car is under powered?.. Is just plain b.s.. And I have the 2012(283hp).. The 2015 has gotten a boost to 295hp. Ok.. This is not a race car.. And I dont treat it as such. But I am being honest here when I say I have on more than one occasion got on it at a red light and left other(some far sportier) cars in my dust... And it was not for lack of them trying. This car MOVES!!!

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  Will NEVER buy Dodge again - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By mrreviewer - December 2 - 9:05 am

  2009... Dodge has hat in hand looking for help to stay a float.. The Government bails them out.. Being a proud Canadian who loves to support our workers.. I decided to go with the Dodge Journey R/T. Well, with a piece of garbage like that no wonder they needed a bail out. I also hadnt realized this vehicle was assembled in Mexico.. Who knows, someone may have poured tequila in the engine or something as this was a 5 year nightmare. 2 rebuilt engines, new drive train, Hubs, bearings, 4 sets of brakes, problem after problem.. Chrysler would have been in the $40-$50k range in warranty work... Myself, I figure my bills hit the $20k range over 5 years!!!

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  2015 Dodge Journey - 2.4 liter model - 2015 Dodge Journey
  By railguardian - November 29 - 12:47 pm

  It was unfortunate that I read the reviews after I purchased the vehicle. All the negative reviews regarding the 4-cylinder model are true. The salesman said they improved the 4-cylinder engine since the days I owned a PT Cruiser with the same engine. The PT ran great, but then add on the extra weight of the Journey and then you have problems, slow, slow slow. It seems its on overdrive every time you accelerate. The price was right, the looks are OK for the price, but open the hood, everything looks like its plastic, and Holy Cow, check out the location of the battery. I got what I paid for, I went cheap and cheap is what I got.

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  Excellent Family Hauler - 2015 Dodge Journey
  By daigs - October 30 - 9:56 am

  Ive had the Journey for a couple weeks now and the initial quality and impression I have is extremely positive. Having a family of 4, I find that its the right size. Big enough of the kids and our stuff, but not too large. Right selection of features, quality and performance also make it a winner. While fuel mileage gets dinged by Edmunds, I find that its been better than expected. And considering the 6 cylinder engine and the fact that this isnt a tiny vehicle, Im satisfied with what I get. Plenty of storage and materials that make you say "wait, this is a Dodge!?". Im very satisfied with my purchase.

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  2015 Journey SXT V6 - 2015 Dodge Journey
  By burdawg - October 27 - 12:48 am

  After much consideration I went with the Journey SXT FWD with v6/6 speed transaxle. Others considered: Hyundai Santa Fe: Almost 6K more in cost with a rebate of only 1K. Not 6K better in my opinion. Jeep Cherokee: Rougher ride, also quite a bit more costly but better incentives. Could be a better choice if off-road capability is your priority. You need to get past those ugly slit headlights though. Ford Escape: Smaller and more pricey, lower incentives. I was lost with all the buttons and levers on the steering wheel. The touchscreen display if complicated and difficult to navigate. Plus my wife didnt care for it. I read the Journey review on Edmunds and dont 100% agree with it.

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  A LEMON - RUN FAR AWAY FROM THIS CAR - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By chrishawk8 - October 23 - 8:53 am

  I have owned this car for 2 years and have changed the BRAKES/ROTORS/CALIPERS 3X, and they need to be changed again! This car also has an INTERMITTENT START. I received in August 2014 a Recall notice from Dodge regarding the "ON" position in the ignition but in the recall notice it states "THEY HAVE NO PARTS AVAILABLE TO FIX AND WILL CONTACT US WHEN THEY ARE AVAILABLE". Well its nearly 3 months later and still havent heard from DODGE on this issue - so the fact that my car still intermittently starts, DODGE COULD CARELSS! Today, the ESP traction light came on! In the first 4 months of owning this car, the thermostat and anti-freeze tank went out and had to be changed! THIS IS A LEMON

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  DO NOT BUY!!! - 2009 Dodge Journey
  By ccknezevich - October 21 - 9:45 pm

  So I read the reviews before I bought my 2009 Dodge Journey in May of 2012. I have had this car now for 2 1/2 years and it seems there is always an issue. Multiple batteries, changing the brakes nearly every 10,000 miles, tires are awful, I have had to replace some type of wheel sensor, the key fob doesnt always works so sometimes my car wont crank right away. Electrical problems where the alarm goes off and takes a while to make it stop. This car has been a nightmare.. not to mention, the value. I still owe 15k and its not even worth 9k. It loses so much value every year.. and for good reason. If you buy this vehicle after reading this review.. dont say you werent warned!

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  worst car I ever owned - 2010 Dodge Journey
  By byejourney10 - September 27 - 6:42 am

  Bought the 2010 journey rt. Awd fully loaded. It was new to me. I bought it 40000 kms. I bought $3000 warranty, but most issues werent covered. Brakes, front wheel bearings, alternator, key fob x 2, starter, cd / dvd quit working, never fixed it because i was quoted $2000 to rellace, exhaust sensor valve was carbed up replaced, battery wouldnt keep charged, bought new 1, unplugged back flashlight, turned off cooler in dash, etc...still battery issue. Took it to dealer andcorroded electrical, GPS/ hardrive had update done by dealer, GPS quit 1 hour after leaving lot. Hardrive corrupted. Recently its at dealer again, electrical issues again. Ive had enuf! Its outta here.