2019 Dodge Journey Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The Dodge Journey arrived on the market some ten years ago, promising plenty of space and features on a budget. It got a major refresh in...

The Dodge Journey arrived on the market some ten years ago, promising plenty of space and features on a budget. It got a major refresh in 2011, and has only been lightly touched since that time. For 2019, Dodge simplified the lineup.

Size-wise, the Journey fits snugly in the midsize segment. It’s within inches of the Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander, and GMC Acadia. Seating for seven comes standard on every model, and a maximum 67.6 cubic feet of cargo room with both the second- and third-row seats folded. The interior is basic, but there are a number of helpful pockets and storage areas in all areas of the cabin.

Despite sharing its badge with a number of performance-oriented models, the Journey is noticeably lacking in that department. Base propulsion is provided by a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that makes 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. It sends power to the front axle by way of a 4-speed automatic transmission. The available 3.6-liter V6 is livelier, with 283 hp and 260 lb-ft, along with a 6-speed automatic and the option of all-wheel drive (AWD). Fuel economy is as high as 19 mpg city, 25 highway, and 21 combined with the 4-cylinder, or 17, 25, and 19 with the V6. In the thriftiest versions, it’s possible to see 500 miles between fill-ups.

The V6 Value Package and SXT trims disappear for 2019, leaving just the SE, Crossroad, and GT trims. Dodge added equipment to the base SE trim, including power-heated side mirrors, LED taillights, tri-zone climate control, and a performance-inspired front grille. You can also now get it with the V6 engine and AWD. Other standard features include keyless access and start, automatic headlights, 17-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, a 4.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 6-speaker audio system. Select the Crossroad and you’ll gain 19-inch alloy wheels, an off-road-inspired appearance package, leather upholstery, a 10-way power seat, and interior LED lights. Finally, the GT comes standard with the V6, satellite radio, an uprated suspension, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, premium perforated leather upholstery, and an upgraded system with sound woofer. Navigation, an entertainment package, and a sunroof are standalone options.

As far as safety, every Journey comes with the requisite airbags and a reversing camera. It lacks any crash-prevention options apart from reversing sensors. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) was unimpressed with the crossover, giving it poor ratings for small-overlap protection and headlights.

The Dodge Journey is the most inexpensive crossover with seven seats, bar none. But it simply doesn’t compete with similarly sized vehicles on features, performance, technology, design, or safety. It’s a reasonable choice, but there are far more impressive machines out there.