Dodge Journey
Teresa McCallion
Marketing Department Columnist
Teresa's View
As such, the Journey gets a toned-down version of the Dodge "You talkin' to me?" aggressive styling. Sculpted fender flares and crisp lines look more lean than mean.
A five-passenger setup is standard, although a seven-passenger configuration with a third row is an available option on certain trim levels.
There are three trims. The base SE is offered with a four-cylinder engine for those who wish to spend their hard-earned dollars on something other than gas. The mid-level SXT and sport-styled R/T each get a throaty V-6 for premium power. The SXT and R/T can also be ordered with all-wheel drive ($1,750). All trims come standard with automatic transmission.
If you've ever said, "I could sure use more storage space in my vehicle,'' this is your lucky day. The folks at Dodge scattered covered and uncovered cubbies throughout this crossover utility vehicle (CUV). There's a storage spot under the front passenger's seat, although you obviously can't access it while the seat is in use. Some writers have remarked that it's large enough to stow a purse. Unfortunately it isn't large enough to stow my purse, which probably says more about me than the Journey.
Even more innovative are the two generous, plastic-lined cubbies under the floor at the feet of the middle-seat passengers. Use it as a catchall for toys or as a personal ice bucket. The folks at Dodge say there's room for 12 soda cans and ice. The plastic liner can be removed for easy cleaning.
There's even a chilled glove box for mom and dad's energy drinks.
The clever CUV gets the full-on parental treatment. One of my favorites is the convex Eyes-In-the-Back-of-the-Head observation mirror that sits at the base of the headliner between the two vanity mirrors. It allows the driver to monitor back-seat activities without turning around.
I was surprised to see the wide, deep crevasses that house the seat belt connectors. I understand that they provide a recessed spot so passengers don't have to sit on them, but I've also seen what children do to cars. Those crevasses are going to be full of crumbs, Legos, Barbie shoes and heaven knows what before you can say eebee's adventures.
Some cabin materials are less refined. I'm concerned that certain plastic pieces will be shredded by the ghastly wear and tear only children can unleash.
Even young children should be able to access the optional third-row seating. With just a slight pull on a lever, the seat flops forward easily. However, it takes an adult to push it back into place.
Integrated child booster seats - now the law in Washington state for children younger than 8 or under 4-foot-9 inches tall - are a thoughtful option.
Best of all - at least for some folks - the new crossover is not a minivan.
What Is It?: The 2009 Dodge Journey is an all-new midsize crossover with room for up to seven. Prices start at $20K with destination charges..
Gadget Rating: 8 of 10. Standard features include heated front seats, dual zone temperature control, air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry and power driver's seat, door locks, windows and heated exterior mirrors. The 6-speaker audio system includes a 6-disc DVD/MP3 player, satellite radio and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. There are great options too, like a rear back-up camera, multimedia infotainment system with or without navigation, sunroof, hands-free phone and rear seat DVD with wireless headphones and remote.
Grocery Bag Test: The rear liftgate provides a wide opening for loading groceries or gear. And look! There's another cubbie back here, plus a handy flashlight.
Fill 'er Up: According to Dodge, the base version of the Journey gets best of class fuel economy at 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. In a week with our R/T all-wheel-drive tester (EPA-rated at 15/22), I averaged just over 17 mpg.
Cheat Sheet: Dodge has been a division of Chrysler since 1928.
So, Where Are Ya From?: Final assembly for the Journey is Toluca, Mexico.
