Fresh reinforcements have joined Dodge's "paratrooper" team, which Chrysler sent to conquer markets outside North America. The Avenger, Caliber, Nitro, and Viper have been joined by a newcomer named Journey — and it is perhaps this one that can be called the exemplary fighter of this squad.
Why exemplary? First, Journey is already the fifth model in this "expeditionary corps." And second, determining its class affiliation causes considerable confusion. The car turned out to be somehow special, unlike others. Is it a spacious station wagon, a minivan, or a crossover? Judge for yourself: the silhouette is low and two-box, the interior is spacious, and the ground clearance inspires respect. However, that was the intention — the creators deliberately tried to mix as many different qualities as possible in one car to make it the most versatile tool for all occasions. How well did they succeed?
Outside, the Journey, based on the common Chrysler D-segment platform (the same as the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring), fully matches its status. The car is large, solid, stands confidently on its wheels, and seems ready for any test. But perhaps the newcomer lacks charm and bright individuality. And, in my subjective opinion, it is unlikely that a future owner will freeze with delight approaching it in the morning. However, once inside the cabin, he will surely appreciate the genius of the designers.
The word "spacious" applied to the Journey's cabin is not an empty phrase. To find a reason for dissatisfaction while seated in any of the five seats, you would have to be an inveterate grumbler. But the seven-seat version gives extra reason for nitpicking. The two folding third-row seats (which form a flat floor when folded) are essentially child seats, and in that capacity they do their job quite well. At the same time, there is still room in the trunk for a couple of modest-sized suitcases. If you fold the third row, the cargo volume exceeds 700 liters (758 L). And after removing both rear rows, you get a hold big enough to load an elephant. In terms of interior transformation, the Journey can charm anyone. There are standard seat folding options, a front passenger seatback that folds down for long items, and the ability to slide the second row close to the first for easier supervision of children in the back. And any operation is performed effortlessly. For example, to get to the third row, just one hand movement is enough. And the rear side doors, by the way, open to a convenient 90 degrees.
Overall, the Journey is made much more solidly than one might expect from the usual "Dodge" stereotype. The suspension, slightly stiff, remains quite comfortable, the brakes work efficiently and predictably, and the steering wheel pleases with adequate effort and size. Behind the wheel of such a car, you want to drive and drive, enjoying the process. But add some gas — and the Journey shows its character. No, globally, everything is still fine. However, there is a feeling that the 2.7-liter gasoline V6 has slightly tempered its ardor (although this is most likely an illusion — the claimed acceleration to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds is quite acceptable), the 6-speed automatic shifts too eagerly and with noticeable jerks during intense acceleration, and the traction control system on gravel smooths out a sharp start only after a noticeable pause. This can be considered a minus, or simply a trait of character. Be that as it may, the car has plenty of pluses, and the creators' main idea — that the car should be ready for any life twists of its owner — is implemented quite fully.
Driving
Journey feels confident on the highway but does not like sharp accelerations and aggressive lane changes.
Interior
The interior pleases not only with its dimensions but also with its style and quality of finishing materials.
Comfort
At a high level — thanks to rich equipment.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Spacious interior, rich equipment, increased ground clearance.
- Jerky gear shifts during active acceleration, lack of all-wheel drive, considerable price.
Specifications
Make and model — Dodge Journey
Dimensions — 4888x1878x1691 mm
Engine — gasoline, V-shaped, 6-cylinder, 2736 cm³, 185 hp/5500 rpm
Transmission — automatic, 6-speed
Dynamics — no data
Competitors — Ford S-MAX, Mazda5
Our opinion
Dodge Journey is a distinctive car with an excellent interior and acceptable driving manners. Thanks to its unusual concept, it combines features of a minivan, a passenger car, and a crossover to some extent. Journey is well suited for long and varied trips.