Model Update

SUVs are super popular and the Dodge Journey has so much to offer the potential SUV buyer. For starters there is a standard 2.7-litre, DOHC Dual VVT, V6 petrol engine that produces a lusty 136 kW at its peak power and 256 Nm of torque to tow that trailer load. There is some talk of Dodge introducing a 3.6-litre V6 engine, too.

A feature well worth taking note over is the Dodge Journey’s Trailer Sway Control system. By continuously monitoring of the driver’s intended path versus steering wheel input, the system can recognise an untoward swaying motion. If the swaying starts, the Trailer Sway Control System automatically applies braking pressure to bring this dangerous action back into control.

A new Dodge Journey also has 12000 km service intervals, a three year/100,000 km warranty, three year roadside assistance and an engine Flex Fuel capability so that E85 ethanol-blended fuel, regular petrol, or a combination of both can be used.

There is an impressive new SUV in Australia – the Dodge Journey. And long journeys are certainly what this Dodge is built for!

A Dodge Journey has a magnificent, roomy design that is based upon a stretched version of the Dodge Avenger. Seven seats means that there is three rows of seats. If you only need the five seats, you can fold the rear two down perfectly flat to the floor. Luggage space then becomes impressive. The Journey’s cabin is a roomy and very comfortable place to enjoy a trip across any Australian state – especially as a pleasurable trip comes from being seated inside the luxuriously appointed cabin which leaves the harsh Aussie outback will outside the door.

Refinement levels are good, and as the Dodge Journey is a potential seven-seater, there is plenty of room for a large family in here. There are, in fact, some nice family-friendly features. The Dodge Journey’s rear doors will open 90 degrees, making it easier for people to get in and out of the second row. The second row seats slide forward or backward to improve either second or third row passenger room. What Dodge has cleverly designed is what they call “theatrical seating”. This is where the second row is 40mm higher than the first row, and the third row is another 17mm higher than the second row. Kids love this feature, and it helps any children travelling in the Dodge Journey to see outside the windows, gaining a more interactive journeying experience. And incorporated into the seating design are some very practical child booster seats.

Strategically placed inside the Dodge Journey are many handy storage compartments neatly tucked away under seats or in the floor. A nice welcoming touch is the cooling boxes ready for keeping the kids’ drinks nice and cool after some great family outdoor action. What a vehicle to spend a hot summer adventure in.

Another excellent design feature is the cleverly designed stain- and smell-resistant upholstery available in all cloth seat-equipped versions (Dodge Journey SXT). Leather, of course, is standard in the top of the line model (Dodge Journey RT). Worth a mention is the multimedia audio and entertainment system which provides all occupants access to state-of-the-art audio and visual electronics. The rear seat entertainment system includes an eight-inch colour monitor that works with the radio DVD player. This display unit conveniently folds down from the headliner to entertain rear seat passengers.

Settle for the very nice Dodge Journey SXT and though the level of equipment can’t match the flagship RT, you have a lot to be thankful for. Some of the many features everyone can enjoy include dual-zone climate control and six-disc CD/DVD audio system, but the driver isn’t forgotten with a six-way electric driver’s seat, tilting and telescopic steering wheel and cruise control. In the second row, two standard in-floor storage bins are designed to store up to twelve, 375ml beverage cans plus ice, or to keep other items out of sight.

In terms of safety equipment, your Dodge Journey is superbly equipped. The multi-stage driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted airbags, three-row side curtain airbags, standard ABS, stability control, roll mitigation, an available back-up camera, and optional all-wheel drive provide ample resilience to the unplanned and unwanted accident (mind you, I’ve never heard of a wanted accident).

I do miss the diesel option that is lacking in the Dodge Australia line-up. A powerful 2.0-litre turbo-diesel is available elsewhere on the globe which has a maximum power of 103kW and peak torque of 310Nm. The 2.0-litre engine achieves fuel consumption ratings of 7.0 litres/100 km with the all-new six-speed dual-clutch automatic transaxle. What is offered, however, is the quiet 2.7-litre petrol engine which comes coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle and produces 136 kW and 256 Nm of torque. Not a bad alternative.

Although the Dodge Journey has conservative styling cues, the big SUV is attractive and well put together. The sporty design and roomy family-friendly cabin completes a very desirable package for the active family. Pricing is good, so this becomes a recommended machine.

The current model series includes the:

• Dodge Journey SXT
• Dodge Journey R/T

For any more information on the Dodge Journey or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quotes requests out to our national network of Dodge dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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