![]() ![]() The Journey's handling is reasonably responsive. The six-speed automatic can take some of the polish off the package, though: in some versions we've driven, the automatic juddered and hesitated before it downshifted. Chrysler's 3.6-liter 'Pentastar' V-6 makes 283 horsepower and is hooked up to a six-speed automatic for much better responsiveness. Otherwise you should head straight to one of the V-6 versions, as they're excellent and refined. ![]() Their loud, coarse 173-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and four-speed automatic are dawdling and disappointing in nearly every respect. Sirius Satellite Radio and TravelLink features are available, along with a premium audio system.įorget about the Journey if you're set on the idea of a four-cylinder or top-drawer fuel economy. That includes an 8.4-inch touch-screen that at the top of the lineup can combine with a Garmin navigation system that isn't all that intuitive. Seven-passenger seating is available even on the base model, while you'll also need to get the SXT to get the UConnect media center option. Bluetooth isn't included on the base model, but it is a $395 option. But even with the base model you get power windows, locks and mirrors air conditioning cruise control pushbutton start a cooled glove box a telescoping steering wheel and an AM/FM/CD player. You'll need to step up to SXT models to get either the V-6 engine or all-wheel drive. Several of the models (the Limited and R/T) get more features for the money in 2014. The Journey is offered in an extensive lineup, with AVP (American Value Package), SE, SXT, Limited, and R/T models. The rear seat folds fully flat, and under the rearward portion of the cargo floor there’s a huge space vast enough for a couple of laptop bags. Back-seat accommodations are among the best you’ll find in any vehicle this size, and the seats are contoured to fit adults the seatback is adjustable for rake, and the whole bench slides fore and aft a few inches, so it’s easy to get comfortable back there. Front seats are what we’d best describe as ‘American-sized’-think wider than some other seats. Dodge and Chrysler clearly applied some of its long-honed expertise with minivans to this interior, as people and cargo really fit well and there are plenty of smaller spaces for personal items, toys, and accessories. ![]() There's a lot for busy parents to like about the 2014 Journey. The original Journey just didn't have the refinement it should have today's Journey is one of the better picks among crossovers, even if that remains largely unknown. Under the hood, it got the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, along with a large number of improvements that reduced noise, made the ride smoother, and generally upped the quality level substantially. Inside, the Journey follows a smooth, swoopy look and simple layout, with large dials and knobs and an LCD touchscreen framed by high-quality materials.Ī couple of years ago, Chrysler gave the Journey a completely new interior, with a more elegant instrument panel, better trim, and soft-touch materials. The look isn't so different that it's wacky, but different enough to avoid that same-old-family-vehicle styling rut. We appreciate that Dodge has shaken off the same-as-the-other-guy sheetmetal that clothes other crossovers, giving the Journey lines that are refreshingly different, even if they're no longer necessarily fresh. Now seven model years old, the design of the 2014 Journey still splits the difference between a tall wagon with all-wheel drive and a boxy sport-utility vehicle. Larger families may find it suits their needs without the thirst for fuel and sheer on-the-road bulk of larger seven-seat mid-size crossovers like the Toyota Highlander or the much longer Nissan Pathfinder. While it sells in roughly the price range of compact crossovers, it's dimensionally larger-meaning you get more car for the money. With smart packaging, an optional third row for occasional use, and a far nicer interior plus better roadholding and handling than the original, the modern-day Dodge Journey is more flexible than five-seat competitors and includes a lot of features for the price. Over the years it's seen big improvements in its interior, drivetrains, and suspension tuning, and it's no longer the underwhelming wagon it was back then. But it doesn't quite have the recognition or sales that those vehicles enjoy-in part, because the original 2009 Journey was so flawed, in so many ways. The Dodge Journey is a crossover wagon that can seat up to seven, one that competes against vehicles like the Toyota Venza, Honda CR-V, Ford Edge and Chevy Equinox. ![]()
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