2009 Dodge Journey

Engines and Transmissions

Journey will be a world car for Dodge, with left- and right-hand-drive models produced, and a diesel engine option for Euro versions. Here in the states, there are two gas-powered motors to choose from. SE’s get a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. The four makes 173 hp, 166 lb.-ft. of torque, and returns 19 mpg in the city, 25 highway, according to EPA estimates. The volume leader is expected to be the 3.5-liter V-6 found in SXT and RT versions. The six is rated at 235 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft of torque, and is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is estimated at 16/23 (FWD), 15/22 (AWD). Our drive time in the Dodge Journey was split between a front-wheel-drive SXT and an all-wheel-drive RT.


On the road, the V-6 feels ideally suited to the 4,000-plus lb. Journey. There is enough power to pass efficiently and cruise easily. The predicted gas mileage is on the low end of average in what is admittedly an underachieving segment. All-wheel-drive models are fitted with an on-demand system; the vehicle shifts power from its default, front-wheel-drive to the rear wheels as needed to enhance handling on dry roads and traction on slippery ones. Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control ride with you, to help maintain composure, when road conditions get sketchy.

Handling and Styling

Journey’s suspension is fully independent, with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup in back. Though the floor sits two inches higher than Avenger (for added ground clearance and more interior packaging options), the overall driving feel is still far more car than SUV. Handling is good for the breed and ride quality is trip-rated comfortable. RT models add a set of 19-inch wheels, and RTs and SXTs with AWD get a performance suspension upgrade. Handling feel is tightened up, with no noticeable erosion in ride quality. However, the hundreds of miles logged were on billiard table smooth western roads. Final judgment on this point is reserved until we can test the new Dodge Journey on streets in the Northeast, i.e. Land of 1,000 Potholes.


The package is wrapped in sheetmetal that cherry-picks styling cues from the breeds that it marries. Side on, Journey has the overall flavor of a station wagon that’s been hitting the gym, or a slimmed down sport ute. Wide, SUV-like arches bulge around the wheels. Above, a beltline crease traces a low to high line along the side, and continues to wrap all the way around the back. The liftgate door bisects oversized, vertical taillights. Up front, it’s a distinctly Dodge family resemblance. Wedgy, horizontal headlights flank the crosshair grille while fog lamps below are recessed into sub-grilles.


Journey represents Dodge’s best intelligence at where the crossover market is heading. Given the company’s resume in the field of function-first vehicles, it is an educated guess, and one well executed. Dodge Journey looks the part of the modern crossover, and those who slide inside will see the results of a thoughtfully engineered design. Its prime competition all feature different strengths: Ford Edge (style), Hyundai Santa Fe (value), Toyota RAV4 (reliability). Practical and comfortable, the new Dodge competes best from the inside out, where the minivan Meisters have crafted a cabin as useful and innovative as anything in its segment. (www.dodge.com)

About the Author
A native of New York’s Hudson River Valley, Dan Lyons has been reviewing cars in print and online for the past 20 years.