Reviews

The Dodge Journey looks downright dowdy compared with the latest crossovers, a lingering throwback to the past. Journey SE models are distinctly downscale, with untinted window glass and 17-inch steel wheels with plastic hubcaps. Journey SXT trim moves it up a notch with alloy wheels, LED taillights, body-color mirrors, and foglamps.

The Crossroad relies on more rugged looks, not unlike Subaru rivals, but off-road capabilities are no better than other versions. The chrome roof rails and a body kit jazz up the Crossroad a bit. The bright bars front and rear, intended to suggest skid plates, visually stand out too much.

Measuring a modest 192 inches overall, a Journey might fit into some garages that would be tight for a minivan.

Interior

Versatile and functional, the well-configured Journey cabin falls short on flair. Trailing most rivals, it’s also less spacious than newer crossovers with three rows of seats.

No Journey qualifies as luxurious, by any means. Yet, interior materials are generally good in view of Journey prices. Cloth upholstery in SE and SXT editions feels durable. Easy-clean leather-faced seats are optional on Crossroad and standard for GT. Leather/mesh in the Crossroad is the most enticing choice.

Though it’s contoured, with soft edges and good-looking graining, the dashboard can only be called dull. Crossroad and GT trim brings an 8.4-inch infotainment system that’s delightful to use. Unfortunately, it’s incompatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Cabin space is decent, for a three-row vehicle of the Journey’s size. Front seats are average, with no height control for the passenger. Two riders fit neatly into the second row, but three will be a squeeze. The bench slides fore/aft, but the seat-folding mechanism trails that of newer crossovers. Children are the best candidates for the third row, which falls short on space.

With both the second and third rows folded flat, cargo space totals 67.6 cubic feet. Raising all seatbacks leaves only 10.7 cubic feet behind the third row. Small-item storage is ample, abetted by under-seat bins in the second-row floor.

* The advertised price does not include sales tax, vehicle registration fees, other fees required by law, finance charges and any documentation charges. A negotiable administration fee, up to $115, may be added to the price of the vehicle.

* Images, prices, and options shown, including vehicle color, trim, options, pricing and other specifications are subject to availability, incentive offerings, current pricing and credit worthiness.