2014 Dodge Journey Watertown, WI

The 2014 Dodge Journey is a midsize sport-utility which offers a smoother ride and better fuel economy of a car. For 2014, the Dodge Journey line features a new Limited model. SXT and Limited models have new option packages that add value, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio is available on all trim levels.

14' Dodge Journey Exterior

2014 Dodge Journey Interior

'14 Dodge Journey Style

From the outside, the 2014 Dodge Journey looks familiar because it hasn't changed much since its introduction as a 2009 model. Thankfully, it's a decent design that doesn't look terribly dated. The upright cabin and squared-off tailgate make for more-than-adequate headroom inside and maximize cargo space, as well. Inside is where the new Journey really shows how much it has improved.   Chrysler's 8.4-inch Uconnect touch-screen is front and center in the R/T, featuring one of the best entertainment and application systems on the market. The rear seats feature an optional 9-inch overhead video screen with remote control and wireless headphones for two, for keeping little ones occupied on longer trips. The Journey really makes its play on the value card, however, with Dodge suggesting that the content available in a well-optioned model brings features unavailable in competitors at similar prices.

Power and Handling of the 2014 Dodge Journey

Two engines are available for the 2014 Dodge Journey. Standard is Dodge's 173-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder. The standard six-speed automatic transmission doesn't feel quite as sophisticated as the engine, however, alternating between slow and lazy shifts meant to keep fuel economy up, and abrupt gear changes if you suddenly need to floor it. The Journey's gas mileage is only average; its big V-6 is estimated to get 16/24 mpg city/highway, 19 mpg combined, with all-wheel drive. The Journey's handling is quite respectable. Upgrades made for 2011 resulted in a remarkable change in behavior; it's gone from being a soft, ponderously handling slug to a taut and communicative vehicle.

Conclusions

The 2014 Dodge Journey is an aging but competitive midsize crossover representing significant value, but the trade-off of more space for worse gas mileage may be too much for more frugal shoppers.