New Dodge Journey

The New Dodge Journey 2012 is a midsize crossover based on a car-like structure. It's capable and versatile enough to compete with large truck based sport utility vehicles making it a good-looking crossover vehicle. The interior has been greatly improved since 2009.

The Dodge Journey is offered in front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configuration. The trim lineup includes SE, SXT, Crew, and R/T. Power for the SE trim comes from a 173-hp 2.4-liter engine matched with a four-speed automatic transmission. All the other trims are powered by a 283-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine, connected vai a six-speed automatic transmission. Key features on all trim levels include dual zone air-conditioning, power heated mirrors, proximity keyless entry, cruise control, USB and auxiliary input jacks, and steering wheel audio controls. Standard safety features include seven-airbags including a driver's knee airbag, traction control, stability control, brake assist, and trailer sway damping.

The new Dodge Journey is unchanged in terms of interior room and function since it was introduced. The Journey seats up to seven passengers. Three adults will be probably too tightly fitted across the second row, but three children will fit easily in the middle row, as will two in the back. Bins and spaces are plenty in the Journey with a cargo space of 37 cubic feet when the second-row seat is folded down.
The Journey's price starts below $20,000, Dodge offers a basic power drive with the four-cylinder engine with 173 horsepower, teamed to a four-speed automatic, a little dated maybe. Acceleration is not ideal, and the fuel economy is below the better V-6. The 3.6-liter engine produces 283 horsepower with a new six-speed automatic for better responsiveness in this large vehicle.

The Journey's handling is quite responsive. The supension has been improved with stiffer, better-responding shocks and a lower ride height in front, and the company has improved the Journey's slower responses. The ride quality remains a strong point with good damping and roll control for a family vehicle even if the sttering is too light.

The new base model for 2012 is a five-seater with power windows, locks and mirrors, cruise control along with air conditioning; pushbutton start, a cooled glove box, a telescopic steering wheel and a AM/FM/CD player. Options include a Garmin navigation system with voice command, Sirius Satellite Radio, TravelLink and Backseat TV, a new DVD entertainment system; and a premium audio system and uConnect multimedia with MP3 player controls.

For 2012, the Dodge Journey continues to impress with the same desirable equipment as the year before and can be considered as a practical and pleasant family vehicle with a comfortable ride.

VITAL STATS FOR THE NEW DODGE JOURNEY

• Engine
2.4L I-4

• Power
173 @ 6,000 rpm

• Transmission
4-spd w/OD

• 0-60
10.4 seconds

• Drivetrain
front-wheel

• Seating
5 passengers

• Cargo
67.6 cu.ft.

• MPG \ l
19 City / 26 HWY

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