2009 Dodge Journey R/T FWD

2009 Dodge Journey R/T FWD Quick Facts

Base Price:	$26,545
Price as Tested:	N/A
Horespower:	235 Hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque:	232 lbs.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
0 to 60:	N/A
ABS Brakes:	Standard
Side Curtain Airbags:	Standard
EPA Fuel:	16/23 m.p.g. city/highway
Towing Capability:	Yes
Off-Road Capability:	No
First-Aid Kit:	Not available
Notes/Additional Info.:	3500 pound towing capacity requires optional towing prep package.

Based on the Avenger platform, the new Dodge Journey combines minivan versatility with sport-utility styling: i.e. a fuel efficient, seven-passenger car that doesn't scream “soccer mom.”

Two rows of seating come standard on all three trim levels. The upscale SXT and R/T models have optional third-row seats. A variety of cleverly concealed bins and cubbies stow everything from soup to nuts. For example, the front passenger seat has a storage bin under the seat cushion with enough room for a small pack or purse.  A chill zone on one side of the glovebox keeps drinks cold. An optional iPod port on the other side interfaces with the center stack screen: the screen displays the iPod menu.

Two storage bins under the floor are big enough to hold drink chests: removable liners make them easy to clean. Both two and three-row models have storage areas under the cargo floor. The spare tire and jack are underneath the car. A trap door at the bottom of the under-floor compartment makes them easier to reach.

Car-like Ride and Handling

Engineers modified the Avenger chassis to make room for three rows of seating. The wheelbase is almost five inches longer, although the difference in overall length is only 1.7-inches. Engineers moved the front wheels forward two inches, and raised the vehicle just over two inches so that it has more ground clearance for traveling through snow.

There are two available engines: a 2.4-liter four cylinder engine on the base SE model that comes with a four-speed automatic transmission—and a 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic on the SXT and R/T. While the four-cylinder engine averages about 22 miles-per-gallon as opposed to 19 for the V-6, it's pretty anemic. Anybody planning to haul loads or drive in mountainous areas would be better served by choosing the larger engine.

Those who want to venture off road or travel in inclement weather can add all-wheel drive: a $1750 stand-alone option. It requires upgrading all but the R/T model to nineteen-inch wheels. The wheels come as part of two option packages that also add touring tires, performance steeering and suspension.

Across Southern Nevada

Chrysler invited a group of journalists to test drive the new Journey on a route beginning in Las Vegas that included some two-lane roads around Lake Mead. My partner and I had the front-wheel drive R/T that comes standard with the nineteen-inch rims and V6 engine.

Leather trim is also standard on the upscale model, though I'd prefer the Yes essentials fabric on the mid-grade SXT. The fabric is stain and odor-resistant. Not only does it stay cooler in the summer, but it eliminates the need for people like myself to use seat covers, in order to avoid staining the seats after tough workouts.

The seats are pretty comfortable, though lumbar support isn't exceptional. The power six-way driver's seat is easy to adjust, and a standard tilt and telescoping steering wheel makes it easier for smaller drivers to maintain a safe distance from the front airbag.

The test car has available Bluetooth connectivity and a rear back-up camera. Visibility around the car is good enough to park without the backup camera, but it's a useful safety feature for parents with small kids who might run behind the car below the driver's sight-line.