Dodge Journey (08-10) - Review

All but the rearmost seats boast good legroom, but the high floor can create a slightly claustrophobic feeling, particularly noticeable in models with dark interior trim. At night the instrument lighting has a cool blue-green hue and this is also used to pick out the front cupholders, giving a classy appearance. Unfortunately the ride is a let down, the suspension is too stiff, yet the ride is bouncy and over twisting routes passengers can all too easily start to feel queasy. The seats aren't particularly comfortable or supportive either, which is especially noticeable on long journeys.

With all its seats in use the Journey has just 127 litres of bootspace, but usefully this does rise to a more useable 816 litres with the two rearmost seats folded flat. Fold down the centre row seats (and the front passenger seat) and the Journey can carry a van-like 2117 litres, although luggage has to be lifted over a rear sill which is higher than usual. Thoughtful design means the Journey is also practical in other ways – the rear doors open a full 90 degrees making access particularly easy to the middle row while an easy-slide system means reaching the rearmost seats is relatively simple (for younger passengers). Storage spaces for small items abound, and include underfloor boxes and a handy flip-up cubby allowing the front passenger to keep valuables out of sight.

Dodge has attempted to improve interior quality in the Journey - and it is certainly better than other models like the Caliber and Avenger. However, while there are some soft-touch panels, plastics uses elsewhere don't fit precisely and leave some sharp edges exposed as a result. A centre console housing stereo and satellite navigation controls looks smart, but the driver's instrument cluster seems like an add-on and some of the switches feel flimsy.