Vehicle: 2009 Dodge Journey SXT AWD
Price as tested: CDN$27595

Performance: The Journey is powered by two different engines. In the base SE, its standard with the rough and noisy 2.4 liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder world engine, which is a joint venture program between Chrysler, Mitsubishi and Hyundai. This 173 horses and 166 lb/ft of torque 4 banger is adequate for a crossover weighting in north of 3800 pounds. However, its the optional 3.5 liter V6, which is the High Output variety, according to Chrysler, that is the engine of choice. While 235hp and 232 lb/ft of torque are nothing spectacular consider the level of engine displacement, its the work ethics that really suitable to Journey’s status of life. With 232 lb/ft of torque arrives at 4 grand, its more than enough to motivate this 4229 lb pig of crossover. While the bottom end is more than enough, its the mid-range that is most impressive. With the maximum horsepower delivers at 6400rpm, it certainly has plenty to deliver even with 7 passengers on board. The throttle response is quick and smooth. Mated to this V6 is a 6-speed automatic with AutoStick. AutoStick to Chrysler is what manumatic means to the rest of the world. The shifts are smooth and coordinate, while the lower gears are low enough for peppy acceleration. That is certainly helps a whole lot with this heavy crossover during acceleration. On the top gears, it cruises comfortably especially the tall 6th gear. Unfortunately, if you are looking for something economical to run. You shouldn’t consider this powertrain at all. At the day of our testing, the test average of 13L/100km is thirsty. The fuel economy would only get worse with 7 passengers and their belongings on board.

Handling: Journey is based on the same platform as Avenger. While we were underwhelmed by Avenger’s dynamic abilities, we have a delightful surprise with the Journey. Even though the chassis isn’t of anything spectacular, it serves this crossover pretty damn well. Chrysler engineers have done a great job of balancing the ride and handling. It rides as good as any crossovers we have ever driven. Both the suspension and springs absorb bumps and roughness with ease. The AWD system works accordingly. The steering provides decent feedback and response, its even more surprising that it is damn precise. There are certain amount of body rolls and understeer. Its understandable that ESP is an instrusive type, as it really needs to step in accordingly in a crossover. There is safe understeer, as we all expect from a crossover, with safety and comfort in mind.

Brakes: With 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, Journey has a commandable braking performance even with its heavyweight. The stopping distance is acceptable while pedal feels solid. This is a break from the usual numb braking feel norm once associates with Chrysler products.

Interior: When it comes the ergonomics, the Journey scores well. The stereo is smart enough to place above the climate control. There are plenty of storage spaces on the center console, underneath the front passenger seat and behind the 2nd row floors. Another bonus is the ease to get into the 3rd row seat, which can’t said about the same thing regarding Chrysler’s previous attempt on crossover, the flopped Pacifica. The Yes! Essential seating materials look durable even though its roughness is questionable. However, its firm enough to haul everyone comfortably on both long and short journeys.

Having said that, the disasterous use of rock-solid, cheap plastic materials remain thoroughout the cabin. Another drawback is the location of the shifter, which placed way too forward on the sloppy center console.

With the 3rd row seat in place, you don’t get much cargo space. With them fold down, it got 120 more liters of space for all the belongings. It also got a neat LED flashlight standard across the board.

Conclusion: Chrysler’s first attempt to crossover was an unsuccessful one. The Pacifica was underpowered, handles like a boat and not versatile enough. With the introduction of the Journey, Chrysler has learned the mistakes of the Pacifica by adding more power and give it better driving dynamics. When it comes to versatility, its unbeatable in its price range. The low admission price is an added bonus. The bottom line? Journey has to be considered as one of the best efforts from Chrysler today.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2009 Dodge Journey
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Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4.5/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 3/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 5/5
Value-for-money: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5