2009 Dodge Journey Review

The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey marks the brands first entry into the midsize crossover SUV segment. The Journey delivers minivan-like hauling ability, but without the stigma of feeling like a soccer mom. The Dodge Journey, which shares the underpinnings of the Avenger sedan, is quite appealing. The unmistakably Dodge cross-hair grille, along with a somewhat sleek profile and flared fenders give Journey a sporty theme. To accommodate its available 5+2 seating and additional cargo space, Journey's wheelbase is 4.9 inches longer than the Avenger. Five-passenger seating is standard on all Journeys, while an available third-row seat (5+2 seating) is offered on SXT and R/T models. On five-passenger models, a tri-fold load floor is located behind the second-row seat and provides a hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is reversible and configures into a "grocery bag" position. Seven-passenger models feature a third-row seat that's easy for kids to access thanks to Journey's Tilt 'N Slide second-row seats and rear doors that open a full 90-degrees. A rear in-floor hidden storage bin is located behind the third-row seats. My Journey R/T tester was equipped for seven-passenger seating and I found the cabin to be roomy and comfortable. I noticed a bit of cheap-looking plastic trim pieces and poor-fitting carpeting in places, but I otherwise enjoyed Journey's nifty and versatile cabin. Journey provides hidden bins that swallow up a variety of goodies. I frequently made use of the bin under the front passenger seat. The seat cushion easily flips up to reveal a bin large enough to store and hide valuables like a camera or purse.

I especially liked the two standard in-floor storage bins (located in the floor behind the front seats) that are designed to hold a dozen 12-ounce cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. For added convenience, the bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners.

These bins eliminate having to bring a separate cooler along on road trips. By the way, for those trips to the lumberyard, every seat (except the driver's seat) can be folded down to increase Journey's cargo-carrying capacity.

A bit more refinement and a couple of fixes would make Journey's cabin more likable. I'd recommend moving the trip odometer reset knob. It's difficult to reach. Also, I'd favor swapping the radio position (bottom of center pod) with the climate controls. I don't like to look down when fiddling with the radio.

Journey is available as a front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle. The base powertrain features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 173-horsepower mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. At 19/25 mpg city/highway, the four-cylinder Journey is obviously the most fuel efficient in the line.

Journey buyers can step up to a 2.7-liter V-6 engine that is rated at 186 horsepower and is flex-fuel compliant capable of running on any blend of unleaded fuel and E85.

At the top of the line is a 3.5-liter V-6 that delivers 235 horsepower. This V-6 is required for AWD models and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

On the plus side, my 2009 Dodge Journey R/T AWD tester delivered plenty of power, a comfortable ride, and sure-footed all-wheel drive traction.

On the minus side, though, fuel economy from my AWD tester was poor (15/22) and the six-speed transmission in my tester often displayed difficulty in finding the right gear during stop-and-go driving. Still, Journey has many likable features that make it a desirable vehicle.

2009 Dodge Journey R/T AWD 

Engine: 3.5-liter (235 hp) V-6

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Drive type: AWD

Fuel economy: 15 city/22 highway

Base price: $27,670

As tested: $32,510 (including $625 for destination)

Web site: www.dodge.com