The Dodge Journey. It’s a nameplate that has been around for quite a while, and it’s a vehicle that often sparks… well, let’s just say opinions. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly SUV with three rows, the Journey might have popped up on your radar. But before you make any decisions, it’s crucial to dive into what real-world Dodge Journey Reviews are saying. Let’s unpack what you need to know.
A Rental Road Trip Reality Check
Sometimes, the best way to get acquainted with a car is unexpectedly. That was certainly the case when a rental Dodge Journey SXT became the ride for a multi-day trip. Landing at Detroit Metro Airport with limited rental options – a Santa Fe, a Town & Country, a Ram 1500, or the Journey – fate, or perhaps a slightly sadistic editor, dictated the choice: “JOURNEY.”
First impressions? Practicality. Luggage space is decent, especially with the third row folded down – a must to accommodate a standard suitcase. However, stepping into the driver’s seat revealed some immediately noticeable omissions, especially for a vehicle in its class and price range, even a 2016 model. Simple features we’ve come to expect were conspicuously absent.
Missing Modern Must-Haves
In today’s automotive landscape, certain features are practically considered standard. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming? Automatic headlights? These are features often found even in base models of many cars. However, this particular Dodge Journey SXT, despite its mid-range trim level and original sticker price nearing $25,000, lacked both. Bluetooth was an optional extra, requiring an additional cost, and automatic headlights were reserved for higher trims. In a world of increasing tech integration and safety awareness, these omissions feel notably behind the times.
Setting off on the road, other aspects of the driving experience started to surface.
Driving Dynamics: A Journey Back in Time?
The driving experience of the Dodge Journey can be described as… basic. The steering wheel, generously sized, evokes a school bus rather than a modern SUV. Its plasticky feel further detracts from any sense of refinement. Responsiveness is not a strong suit either. Both the accelerator and brake pedals require considerable travel before eliciting a reaction, leading to a somewhat disconnected feeling from the vehicle’s controls.
Reversing the Journey reveals another area where modern expectations are unmet. The absence of a rearview camera and parking sensors means relying solely on mirrors and spatial awareness. While seasoned drivers might not find this a deal-breaker, it’s a stark contrast to the driver-assistance technologies prevalent in contemporary vehicles, even in the budget segment.
Interior Comfort and Quirks
Moving inside, the climate control system presented its own set of… challenges. The dashboard vents seemed stubbornly inactive. Further investigation revealed that vent selection was buried within the Uconnect infotainment system, and not immediately intuitive. The initial experience was one of battling to get any airflow from the front vents, a less-than-ideal situation for driver comfort.
The audio system also left much to be desired. Adjusting tone settings seemed to have minimal impact on the sound quality, which was described as tinny and distorted at both ends of the frequency spectrum. While sound quality is subjective, the general consensus from dodge journey reviews points to a less-than-stellar audio experience.
On the positive side, the rear seats offer a decent amount of space. For families with children, the second row is practical, and the availability of integrated child booster seats is a thoughtful feature, albeit one that might be outgrown as children get older.
Visual Appeal and Road Presence
Aesthetics are subjective, but the Dodge Journey’s styling has often been described as… dated. Its design language feels like it belongs to an earlier era of SUVs, lacking the modern flair and dynamic lines of many competitors. While visual appeal is a matter of personal taste, the Journey’s exterior design does little to stand out in a crowded market.
On the Road Again: Practicality and Fuel Economy
Despite its shortcomings in features and driving dynamics, the Dodge Journey does have some redeeming qualities when viewed through a purely practical lens. Visibility is good, offering a commanding view of the road. Fuel economy, in this particular rental experience, hovered around 24 mpg. Considering a sustained high average speed during highway driving, this fuel efficiency is respectable for its class.
If you prioritize basic transportation at a budget-friendly price, and are willing to forgo modern conveniences and a refined driving experience, the Dodge Journey can fulfill that role. Its name is apt – driving it can feel like a journey back to a simpler automotive era.
Value Proposition and the Competition
The Dodge Journey’s primary selling point has always been its affordability, particularly for a three-row SUV. Lower trim levels, especially when factoring in incentives and negotiation, can make it one of the most inexpensive options in its segment. However, even at a lower price, compromises are evident. The third row is best suited for children or short trips, and cargo space with all seats in use is limited.
When considering value, it’s impossible to ignore internal competition, such as the Dodge Grand Caravan, or external rivals like the Kia Sportage. Vehicles like the Sportage often offer a more modern design, better driving dynamics, and a more comprehensive list of standard features, sometimes for a comparable price point or slightly higher.
The Verdict: Journey or Destination Unknown?
Ultimately, dodge journey reviews often converge on a similar theme: it’s a vehicle of compromises. It offers three-row seating at a budget price, but it lags behind many competitors in terms of features, driving refinement, and overall modernity. For buyers solely focused on price and basic functionality, the Journey might still hold appeal. However, for those seeking a more well-rounded SUV experience with contemporary features and driving dynamics, exploring alternatives in the market is highly recommended. The Dodge Journey represents a specific point in automotive history – a value-focused option that, while still available, reflects an older approach to SUV design and features.
