The 2012 Dodge Journey - Leaves Competition Coming Up Short

By That Car Girl

The Dodge Journey - technically a mid-size crossover. What does this mean? Should I expect a sedan on an SUV, or some oddly styled crossover that skimps on styling to get to the SUV?

As a busy mother, I wanted to know what this vehicle has to offer me and my family...versatility, functionality and affordability for starters. The Dodge Journey is America's most affordable mid-size crossover SUV, starting at only $18,995 - a whopping $4,500 less than the Chevrolet Equinox.

Generally, the word affordability carries with it the meaning that somewhere you are going to have to compromise. However, I am still trying to figure out where that might be in the Dodge Journey - with standard dual-zone climate control, an automatic 4.3 inch touch screen media center, ABS, side airbags, power windows and locks, Remote Keyless Entry, cruise control and much more.

The interior -- once a drab, tired, depressing place -- now puts its competitors to shame. The eye-pleasing design makes excellent use of materials, and touch points feel soft and plush. And again, Dodge graced this model with the addition of the intuitive Uconnect infotainment system.

Journey also provides spacious storage bins, including the Flip 'n Stow™ front-passenger concealed storage, a deep center console with a USB power outlet and dual in-floor bins with liners in the second row providing tons of additional storage.
Available child booster seats are integrated into the seat, and can be conveniently folded away when not needed. Additionally, the second-row seats includes a special seat track that can bring your child four inches closer to you in the front seat.


The available three-zone Automatic Temperature Control, allows the driver, front passenger and rear passenger(s) to select their ideal comfort level and set the temperature once. The system will maintain the set temperature of each zone, adjusting for outside temperature and environmental changes. Three-zone manual temperature control is also available.

Now, with a redesigned interior, retuned suspension, and new powertrain, the Dodge Journey is worth a serious look.