2016 Dodge Journey Expert Review
Reviewed by Michael Cantu
Dodge simplifies the Journey lineup, now offering five models instead of seven. The SE model replaces the AVP model as the new entry-level model. Jazz Blue Pearl and Olive Green are new exterior colors.
Vehicle Summary
The Journey is the smallest SUV in the Dodge's lineup and has the second lowest starting price in the automaker's entire lineup after the Dodge Dart sedan.
Overview
The standard powertrain for the 2016 Dodge Journey is a 2.4-liter I-4 that produces 173 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque mated to a four-speed automatic transmission and delivers an EPA-rated 19/25 mpg city/highway. The available 283-hp, 260-lb-ft of torque 3.6-liter V-6 is mated to a six-speed automatic and delivers 17/25 mpg. The standard I-4 engine comes in front-wheel drive only, while the V-6 has the optional all-wheel drive but suffers a slight drop in mpg, delivering 16/24 mpg.
Adding style to your Journey is as simple as adding the available Blacktop Package that consists of 19-inch gloss black wheels, black headlight bezels, gloss black exterior mirrors, gloss black fascia, a gloss black grille, and black side roof rails. If you prefer entertainment, the Rear Seat Video Group 1 and its second-row overhead 9.0-inch screen, wireless headphones, remote control, and a six-speaker premium sound system with a subwoofer should please (CD/DVD player comes standard in the models that have this package available).
Safety
The NHTSA issued the 2016 Dodge Journey a four-star rating out of five stars for the SUV's overall rating. The Journey received four stars for the frontal and rollover crash tests and the highest rating of five stars for the side crash test. The Journey received the lowest rating of Poor by the IIHS for the small overlap front test but was awarded the highest rating of Good for the remainder of the crash tests: moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints. A front crash prevention system is not available on the 2016 Dodge Journey. Seven airbags, electronic stability control with all-speed traction control, electronic roll mitigation, trailer sway control, and four-wheel antilock brakes are all standard. Parkview rear backup camera and the Parksense rear park assist system are optional safety features.
What We Think
In a 2011 First Test review of the refreshed 2011 Dodge Journey, we felt the acceleration and braking were adequate for its class. The steering and suspension were improved, as were the interior materials and features. However, we noted that the second-row seating is tight for adults and the third row is even more so. "Versatility may not win the heart of the enthusiast, but it'll earn commendation from those with dollar sense." In 2012 <em>Motor Trend</em> SUV of the Year testing, we were impressed by the updated interior and said, "The interior—once a drab, tired, depressing place—now puts its stablemates to shame (read: Durango). The eye-pleasing design makes excellent use of materials, and touch points feel soft and plush." We also recommended the 3.6-liter V-6 over the very sluggish I-4 engine, "Still, the powertrain (3.6-liter V-6) remains the best choice for this vehicle; we'll avoid mentioning the four-cylinder/four-speed automatic pairing."
Cool Fact
The Dodge Journey's available all-wheel-drive system sends power to the rear wheels when cornering over 25 mph, improving handling.
