2015 Dodge Journey Review

Cross-over SUV’s have proved itself to be an attractive choice for those that seek the duo family functionality and driving experience.  And because of its attractive offerings, the cross-over market space is both crowded and competitive.  The Kia Sorento, Mazda CX series and Ford Escape are only a few to list.  Dodge’s market penetration plan is to throw in the Journey that adds a V6 engine power excitement along with AWD capability and optional 3rd row seating for added seating capacity.

The 3.6L V6 PentaStar engine configuration is what really makes the Dodge Journey shine with its power output measuring in at 283 horsepower and 260 ft.lbs of torque.  It’s not the only choice though, if you want to maintain a healthy wallet, Dodge also offers a 2.4L 4 cylinder 16 valve engine producing 173 horsepower and 166 ft.lbs of torque.

 

Interior cabin space has never been Dodge’s strong point, and the Journey shows.  Majority of the interior space is homogeneous black with a sparkles of various LED illuminated lights in dark conditions.  The driver dashboard doesn’t possess much elegance either with an awkward choice of Christmas themed font and gauge colors.

 

Though the Dodge Journey doesn’t class itself as a luxury vehicle, but I still think the overall touch and feel is a bit lacking. The plastic feel of mechanical latching in the shift stick and quality of leather and dash panels are a few examples.

Despite its quality draw backs, there is one surprise element the Dodge Journey makes up for, and that’s the exceptional ergonomics of its user interface.  Powering the electronics behind the massive 8.4″ infotainment screen is Chrysler’s UConnect software.  What simply makes it so good is its performance and reliability.  Response time is amazingly fast.  And thanks to its oversize infotainment screen, climate control is easily controlled from there as well, reducing unneeded complexity of additional buttons and knobs in the center dashboard.  The upgraded 6 premium infinity speaker with 368 watt and sub woofer also proved to be a positive note worth mentioning during our test drive.

 

Added to the front-line of technology is all-speed traction control, electronic roll mitigation and independent McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspensions.  All aspects of incorporated technology help improve road traction, avoid excessive body roll and wheel lift under harsh cornering conditions, and enhanced riding comfort.

Drive quality stays above accepted quality.  I don’t have any complaints against the V6 Pentstar engine – its acceleration feels competent and capable at 283 horsepower.  Coupled to the engine is a 6 speed automatic transmission that is smooth upon gear shifts, but not quite mentally sharp enough to downshift in expected situations such as driving up steep a step hills.

Driving comfort has respectable performance with its overall ride quality neither too harsh or soft.  Steering has a good sense of positive feedback and feels tight and precise under most conditions.  Cornering under mid-speed also feels stable thanks to its stiff-tuned suspensions. For the more demanding drivers, the top end R/T model offers an extra-firm suspension tuned setup for optimal cornering performance.

 

Circling back to our initial notes about engine configurations – cash can be saved when opting for the 4 cylinder engine.  But with a bit of number analysis, it doesn’t take long to justify paying a bit more for the upgraded Pentastar V6.  With its four-cylinder engine coupled to a dated 4 speed transmission, not only is power underrated (especially considering a 5 to 7 passenger people mover) but fuel economy at 26 mpg on highway is nothing spectacular either.  And on that very same note – ultimately defeats the functional purpose of the Cross-Over SUV concept.

Suffering at only 1 MPG less than its four-cylinder  younger and less-experienced brother, the V6 Pentastar option proves itself to be a much worthy buy that better embraces the true spirit of combining accomplishing the day to day road tasks while enjoying the process at the same time.