CD Article: 2009 Dodge Journey R/T AWD

[CD_Editor]

Test Drive:


The top-of-the-line V6-powered Journey R/T is relatively affordable in the mid-size crossover class, says Editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson.  "Unlike the more expensive and recently discontinued Chrysler Pacifica, the Journey is aimed at mainstream family buyers rather than luxury buyers," he notes.
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[Rupert]

This vehicle would make a half decent occasional light tow vehicle...tent trailers and the like...for families on a budget, but the V6 is not available except in upscale more expensive versions. I am not sure what is included in the tow package but find the load levelling shocks on the Caravan to be super. They give a comfortable ride even when not loaded...are these used here? From what I read, the third row seat is an option on it's own...thats a good idea IMO. Many would not want it but would not want to miss other things that came with a package. Without the third row there should be a nifty storage bin with a top. I think this is the same engine that came with my 3.5 intrepid. If it is it was nice. The six speed transmission on the Caravan works well. I suppose that because it has to have AWD there has to be a tunnel with a changer on top. After using the dash mounted shifter on the latest caravan I wonder why it was not used here. It works great and can be manually shifted without taking your hand off the stearing wheel. Great for keeping the revs up in the mountains...and this comes from someone who disdained autosticks as being of no value in an automatic car. Why oh why can we not have a vehicle from anyone without the centre console and go back to the bench front seat with occasional seating for three. Maybe a backward step could lead to a more practical future. If there is to be one for any of us.

[Diesel Advocate]

The Journey is a nice looking vehicle... On the outside... However the interior design on the other hand is not so nice looking. The centre stack is fine but the gauges cluster is hidious. It's as though the designers thought to themselves, "we need some retro styling to invoke Chrysler's of the past" but they only got as far as the Chrysler Horizon and ran with it!

[Honda Owner]

14.2 litres/100 km.

Not for me.