Acceleration

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
3	6	6	5.1

With its 4-cylinder engine, SE struggles to gather passing and merging power, but it keeps up with urban traffic acceptably well. With their standard V6, SXT and R/T models have ample power for any situation. In testing of preproduction vehicles, SXT and R/T models were prone to overly abrupt downshifts during brisk acceleration. We have not yet tested an SXT or R/T with front-drive.

Fuel Economy

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
5	3	3	4.2

No opportunity yet to measure. Both engines run on regular gas, though Dodge recommends midgrade 89-octane gas for the V6. Note that all-wheel-drive models have a 21.1-gallon fuel tank, while front-drive versions have a 20.5-gallon tank.

Ride Quality

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
5	6	6	5.6

All models tested filter out road imperfections with commendable ease. SE models have the smallest wheels and tires and the softest suspension tuning. As such, they are prone to float over larger dips and swells. AWD SXT and R/T models better composed overall. We have not yet tested a front-drive SXT with its 17-inch wheels and tires.

Steering/Handling/Braking

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
4	6	6	5

All Journeys have direct-feeling, responsive steering. Softly sprung SE models suffer from a surprising amount of lean in cornering. Tested SXT and R/T models are much better poised around corners and feel sportier overall. All models have responsive brakes with reassuring pedal feel.

Quietness

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
6	6	6	5.9

Models tested are commendably hushed. Road noise is also well muted, though Consumer Guide reserves final judgment until testing on less ideal surfaces can be arranged. Both engines kick up a less-than-refined growl during acceleration but are mostly unheard otherwise.

Controls

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
5	5	5	6.5

Major gauges are large and generally easy to read, though the thick steering wheel partially blocks view to dials to the far left and right. Models with available MyGIG audio system, but without navigation, suffer from a screen set too low on the center console to be easily read at a glance. Likewise, all audio controls are set too low for easy access. On models so equipped the MyGIG and navigation screen are combined and located at the top of the center console for vastly improved visibility.

Details

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
5	5	5	5.7

Generally handsome cabin decor is marred by excessive use of hard plastics and unpadded materials. Available leather upholstery goes a great distance towards improving the general ambiance, but most class competitors come off as more upscale.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
7	7	7	7.1

Supportive seats and ample headroom and legroom make Journey long-trip friendly. The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a nice touch. Modest roof pillars mean visibility is good all around, though the available fold-from-the-ceiling DVD screen completely blocks the view aft when in use.

Room/Comfort (rear)

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
6	6	6	6.4

Ample legroom for six-footers, though headroom is limited for anyone much taller. Reclining seatback is a nice feature in this class.

Cargo Room

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
8	8	8	8.6

In addition to the deep center console and upper and lower glove boxes, Journey boasts an available under-cushion front-passenger seat small-item compartment, two good sized foot-well storage compartments in the second row, and a large, deep storage tray beneath the rear load floor. Seven-passenger models make do with a smaller rear compartment limited to the area behind the rear bench. Note also that the front passenger seat folds flat to create an impressive load floor. The 2nd and 3rd-row seats easily fold flat and feature long tether straps for pulling the seats back up without having to climb in. A pop-out flashlight built into the cargo area is a nice convenience.

Value within Class

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
4	8	7	6.4

With Journey, Dodge finally has an SUV that appeals more to families than to folks looking for a tow vehicle. With the available V6 Journey is a sporty, fun-to-drive people mover with clever storage options and room for up to seven. Though cabin decor disappoints, Dodge has priced Journey aggressively and made most expected safety features standard. Note that 4-cylinder models have too little power and overly soft suspension tuning.

Total Score

SE	AWD SXT	AWD R/T	Class Average
58	66	65	66.5

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		57
Average Score		66
High Score		76