2009 Dodge Journey!!

[BrewSwillis]

Article and more images here: http://jalopnik.com/cars/new-cars/2009-dod...sses-293422.php

All-new Dodge Journey Crossover Provides Room to Grow

* All-new Dodge Journey revealed at 2007 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt

* Something for any journey: segment-defining crossover delivers versatility, safety, child friendliness, loads of storage, cargo and seating flexibility, as well as all-weather driving capability

* With a bold, sporty design, new fun-to-drive Journey continues Dodge brand’s global expansion

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 26, 2007 - Dodge designers and engineers have answered the needs of the global passenger car market, as well as the needs of individual drivers, and delivered the all-new Dodge Journey: a global vehicle that meets life’s changing demands by offering a unique combination of versatility and flexibility in a sporty, sexy package. This all-new vehicle takes the practicality of a minivan, the capability of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and the overall efficiency of a passenger car and blends all the best attributes of each into an all-new “right-sized” crossover for the Dodge brand.

“The all-new Dodge Journey gives our customers the entire package,” said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President – International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler. “With its unique combination of purposeful versatility and bold, youthful styling, this new vehicle from Dodge delivers safety, quality and reliability at a great value. Journey also blends innovative technology, entertainment features and useful storage, all wrapped together with an attitude that can only be Dodge.”

The Dodge Journey is built on the company’s global D-segment platform and is designed to meet the needs of customers ranging from young singles, couples and families with small children to mature families who want the flexibility to do more in terms of seating people or storing gear. Clever, flexible seating and storage combinations include standard five-passenger seating with spacious cargo room and available 5+2 seating, for times when additional passengers are along on the journey. Spacious storage bins, hidden in the floor and under the front passenger seat cushion, combined with a variety of fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, make Dodge Journey flexible, functional and fun-to-drive.

Safety also is at the top of mind for customers, and the Dodge Journey delivers with standard multi-stage front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, three-row side-curtain air bags, standard four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), standard Electronic Roll Mitigation, an available back-up camera and available all-wheel drive (AWD) in the United States and Canada.

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey will be available in U.S. dealerships with both five-passenger and available 5+2 seating in SE, SXT and R/T models in the first quarter of 2008 and in global volume markets outside North America in both left-hand and right-hand drive, starting in mid-2008.

Bold, Powerful Proportions with Edgy Lines Evoke SUV Capability

Journey is unmistakably Dodge, with powerful, muscular exterior styling cues that evoke the capable look associated with SUVs.

“The Journey combines the bold attitude of Dodge with excellent interior versatility designed to satisfy buyers’ rapidly changing demands,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design. “Journey is the perfect right-sized vehicle for people who want the prestige of an SUV, but need the functionality and utility of a minivan.”

From the front, the signature Dodge crosshair chrome grille with the Dodge Ram’s head stamped in the center hammers home the Dodge brand message that Journey is bold, powerful and capable. Modern-looking quad halogen headlamps provide excellent road lighting. Available fascia-mounted fog lamps strengthen the contemporary look and help boost visibility during bad weather. Body-color fascias provide a monochromatic look that neatly frames the chrome crosshair grille and headlamps.

Dodge Journey boasts available 19-inch wheels and tires, which set it apart from the rest of the crossover pack. From the side view, Dodge Journey’s horizontal aluminum hood, long daylight opening and low-gloss black appliqués on the B- and C-pillars give the appearance of a long greenhouse. Sculpted wheel arches emphasize Journey’s sporty, athletic appearance. Dodge Journey’s beltline is more angled in front, but less so toward the rear, mimicking the top of the tail lamp shape, which makes it easier for rear-seat passengers to see out the windows — a bonus for pint-sized passengers. An available high-contrast black roof rack with buffed stainless steel roof rails adds capability and completes Journey’s side view.

The Dodge Journey’s rear view elicits as much excitement as the front. The Journey’s single piece, lightweight liftgate includes an integrated spoiler that delivers improved aerodynamics. An LED center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) is mounted in the liftgate header above the glass. Like the integrated spoiler above it, the outer surface of the CHMSL is styled for aerodynamics. Four-piece jeweled red tail lamps span the width of both the liftgate and the body and feature unique curves that give the Journey added style and sportiness. The rear glass on the liftgate’s lower edge follows the curvature of the tail lamps to improve visibility through the rear window. Extra shimmer that adds gleam to the Journey’s performance capability comes from the chrome-tipped dual exhausts, which are standard with the available 3.5-liter V-6 engine in North America.

The Dodge Journey adapts the company’s D-segment architecture also used on the 2008 model-year Dodge Avenger. However, Journey’s 113.8-inch (2890 mm) wheelbase is 4.9 in. (124 mm) longer than Avenger’s to accommodate its available 5+2 seating and additional cargo space.

Dodge Journey will be available in Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Light Sandstone Metallic Clear Coat, Melbourne Green Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Silver Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

Spacious Interior Room for the Entire Journey

A key target for the Dodge Journey’s design team was delivering a practical, flexible interior, with seating and innovative storage features typically only found in a minivan, and the final product delivers.

Dodge Journey’s two-box exterior design means more room for seating people and storing gear on the interior. Journey offers a choice of two seating configurations to balance buyers’ needs for passenger seating and cargo room. Five-passenger seating is standard on all models, while 5+2-passenger seating is available on all models. The Journey’s available third row gives passengers 2 inches (51 mm) more head room than leading North American competitors.

Storing things “under the front seat” takes on an entirely new meaning, thanks to Journey’s available Flip ’N Stow™ in-seat storage. The Journey’s front passenger seat cushion flips forward to reveal a large 10.75 x 8.75-inch (273 x 222 mm) bin under the seat cushion. The bin is large enough to store a purse, umbrella, planner or headphones with the seat down. The seat cushion is hinged, and when flipped forward, provides access to the storage bin.

Dodge Journey’s rear doors open 90 degrees, making it easier for people to get in and out of the second row and gain access to the available third-row seat.

In the second row, the all-new Dodge Journey features theater seating, which gives passengers in the second and third row the ability to see outside the vehicle, which is especially helpful for keeping kids entertained on long drives. The second row H-point is 1.6 inches (40 mm) higher than the first row. The available third row sits another .6 inches (17 mm) higher than the second row and 2.2 inches (57 mm) higher than the first-row seats.

Located in the floor behind the front-row seats are two standard in-floor storage bins that are designed to hold 12, 12-oz. (330 ml) cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. For added convenience, the bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners, so they’re a snap to clean.

Additional thoughtful features that make Dodge Journey more flexible for families include a child presenter seat on all models that makes it easy for the driver to attend to a small child seated in the second row when the vehicle is stationary. The child presenter seat works by allowing the 60 percent portion of the 60/40 fold-flat second row seat to travel 2 inches (51 mm) forward. With the front passenger seat folded flat, the driver can easily reach to the back to assist a child in the second row.

Dodge Journey is the first vehicle in the mid-size crossover segment to offer available integrated child booster seats. These available seats boost a child seated in the second row 4 inches (102 mm) so they’re seated in the adult belted zone. This makes it easier for the child seated in the booster seat to see outside the vehicle. The booster seat is designed for children who are as much as 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m) tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39 kg).

The second-row seats also move forward and rearward a total of 4.7 inches (120 mm) to give adults more leg room, bring children closer to the front seats and provide more cargo room behind the seats. Folding the second row and the available fold-flat front passenger seat flat creates plenty of room for hauling home lumber needed to assemble a playscape or skis from the slopes.

On five-passenger models, a tri-fold load floor is located behind the second-row seat and provides a hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is reversible and configures into a “grocery bag” position. The primary side of the folding panel is carpeted for durability.

The available third-row seat is easy to operate and get into, thanks to Journey’s stadium Tip ’N Slide™ second-row seats. With the turn of a single lever on the side of the seat back, the seat cushions easily fold upward and the seat slides forward. Journey’s available 50/50-split-folding third-row seat provides enough room for two passengers on an as needed basis. The seatback reclines 6 degrees to make the ride even more comfortable. A rear in-floor hidden storage bin located behind the available third-row seat is standard on 5+2-passenger vehicles.

In addition to seating and storage features, Dodge Journey’s versatile and functional interior features a two-tone color scheme with high-contrast dark and light colors. A combination of Dark Slate Gray and Medium Slate Gray is available on SE models. A two-tone combination of Dark Slate Gray and Light Graystone or Dark Pebble Beige and Light Pebble Beige is available on SXT and R/T models. A premium soft-skin instrument panel provides a sense of quality and craftsmanship. Chrome accents the upper center bin latch, door handle, shifter bezel and door lock knobs and instrument cluster bezel. Journey R/T models add chrome touches on radio and climate control knobs.

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey also features three types of seat upholstery: cloth is standard on the SE model, YES Essentials® stain-resistant, odor-resistant, anti-static seat fabric is available on the SE model and standard on the SXT model and leather is standard on the R/T model.

Innovative, Clever Features Deliver Flexibility

Many of Dodge Journey’s innovative and clever features are designed to be easily operated. Journey’s many user-friendly features include:

* Technologies

o MyGIG™ cutting-edge multimedia audio and entertainment system

o Available ParkView™ Rear Backup Camera displays the view behind the vehicle in the navigation display when backing up or parking

o Available Full-color, GPS Map Navigation System with 7-inch (17.8 cm) display provides convenient directions and traffic alerts

o Chill Zone™ cooled beverage storage bin located in the glove box helps keep two cooled 12-oz. (330 ml) cans cool through the air conditioning system or fresh air inlet

o YES Essentials Premium Cloth Seats are stain resistant, odor resistant and anti static for easy cleaning and a long-lasting appearance

o Available Aimable LED Map/Reading Lamps provide focused light without distracting the driver

o Available Removable, Rechargeable LED Flashlight is stored in the rear cargo area for convenient light when needed

o Illuminated Cup Holders glow blue green for easy nighttime access

o Available Rear-seat Entertainment System includes an 8-inch (20.3 cm) color monitor that works with the radio DVD player. The display conveniently folds down from the headliner to entertain rear seat passengers

o Available 115-volt, 150-watt Power Inverter on the rear of the console powers small household appliances (available in North America)

o Available SIRIUS™ Digital Satellite Radio offers a variety of subscription-based radio programs and music for enhanced listening enjoyment (available in North America)

o Available UConnect™ provides convenient, hands-free communication with BlueTooth™ cellular phones

o Four 12-volt Power Points for powering small electronics. Two are in the front, one is in the second row and one is in the cargo area

o Available Remote Start starts a secured vehicle with the key fob for added convenience (available in North America)

* Seating and Storage

o Standard Five-passenger Seating with Available 5+2 Seating provides flexible seating and cargo capability

o Available Occasional Use, 5+2, 50/50-split Third-row Seat with Recline feature folds flat for added cargo space when not in use

o 90-degree Rear Door Openings make it easier to load and install child safety seats and provides access the available 5+2 seating

o Fold-flat Front Seat with Flip ’N Stow provides storage under the seat cushion and a table-like surface when folded flat for added cargo flexibility. The seat cushion flips forward to reveal a 10.75 x 8.75-inch (273 x 222 mm) bin. The cushion can remain in the forward position to prevent items from sliding onto the floor

o Two Second-row In-floor Storage Bins located in the floor behind the front row seats are designed to hold 12, 12-oz. (330 ml) cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. The bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners for added convenience

o Stadium Tip ’N Slide Seat provides easy entry to the third row with one-hand, one-motion operation

o Tri-fold Load Floor located behind the second-row seats provides a hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is reversible and configures into a “grocery bag” position. The primary side of the folding panel is carpeted for durability

o Rear In-floor Storage Bin for 5+2 Passenger Vehicles includes a hidden storage bin behind the third-row seat. For added utility, a door in the bottom of the bin provides access to the tool and jack storage compartment

o Child Presentation Feature allows the driver to attend to a small child in the second-row seat when the vehicle is stationary

o Available Child Booster Seats for children 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m) tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39 kg), raises the child into the adult belted zone

o Activity Center in second row seatback folds forward to provide two cup holders and a bin for storage of small electronics, snacks, crayons or other small items

o Sunglass Bin with Child Observation Mirror features convex glass for a wide field of view that allows the driver and front passenger to conveniently view the rear occupants

o Sliding Center Arm Rest moves forward 3 inches (76 mm) for driver comfort

o Available Heated Front Seats with Leather or Premium Cloth enhance the comfort of the driver and front passenger (segment exclusive in North America)

o Molded Map Pockets with Bottle Holders in all four doors enhance storage and convenience

Powertrains Provide Efficiency, Flexibility, Fun-to-drive Factor

The front-wheel-drive Dodge Journey features a four-wheel independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. Front and rear suspension crossmembers are isolated to the body to create a quiet ride, with less road noise, vibration and harshness. AWD is available on Dodge Journey models sold in the United States and Canada on vehicles equipped with the 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard.

Dodge Journey features several different engine/transaxle combinations designed to meet the needs of the diverse mid-size crossover buyer. These include a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine, a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) 2.7-liter V-6 engine that can run on E-85, an available 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick for the United States and Canada and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic transaxle for markets outside North America.

Dodge Journey’s standard 2.4-liter World Engine provides an estimated fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway (approximately 9 liters per 100 km on the European combined cycle), as well as solid, quiet performance. Journey’s 2.4-liter World Engine is coupled with a standard four-speed automatic transaxle in the United States and Canada, as well as a five-speed manual transaxle in most markets outside North America. It features dual variable valve timing, intake manifold flow control valves, acoustic cylinder head covers, dual counter-rotating balance shafts and an acoustic oil pan. Mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle, this engine produces 173 horsepower (129 kW) and 166 lb.-ft. (225 N•m) of torque.

Dodge Journey also features an available 2.7-liter V-6 engine, coupled with a four-speed automatic transaxle that is offered as an FFV in North America. The flex-fuel engine produces 186 horsepower (138 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. (259 N•m) of torque and delivers an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway (approximately 10 liters per 100 km on the European combined cycle). The Journey’s 2.7-liter engine with flexible fuel capability has the ability to operate effectively on any blend of gasoline and fuel-grade ethanol up to E-85. Outside North America, this 2.7-liter V-6 engine is coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle.

Dodge Journey R/T and R/T AWD vehicles available in the United States and Canada feature a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 235 horsepower (175 kW) and 232 lb.-ft. (315 N•m) of torque coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle that comes standard with Auto Stick. This engine delivers an estimated 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. This 3.5-liter V-6 engine also is available on SXT models sold in the United States and Canada. The combination of the 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with the six-speed automatic transaxle delivers excellent performance and fuel efficiency, as well as quiet operation.

In markets outside North America, Dodge Journey offers a modern 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transaxle. This 16-valve diesel engine is a state-of-the-art direct-injection power plant with high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder. The injectors are electronically controlled for high power and torque output and optimal fuel efficiency. Maximum power is 140 horsepower DIN (103 kW), and peak torque is 229 lb.-ft. (310 N•m). The engine is expected to deliver excellent overall performance and fuel economy of under 7 liters per 100 km (European combined cycle). A diesel particulate filter is standard from the factory.

Six-speed Transaxle Provides Quick Acceleration, Quiet Ride

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey R/T and R/T AWD models available in the United States and Canada, as well as 2.7-liter models sold outside North America, feature a standard six-speed automatic transaxle, which provides quicker standing-start acceleration than a four- or five-speed transaxle because of a numerically higher first-gear ratio. A more robust differential with increased torque capacity enhances launch performance by requiring less torque management, electronically limiting the torque that is available during the initial stages of standing-start acceleration. Smaller steps between ratios also make for a smoother, quieter ride, as the engine speed doesn’t change as much with each shift. In addition, more ratio choices, more appropriate ratios for quicker acceleration and a lower overall top gear ratio provide a quiet ride and improved fuel economy at highway speeds.

Dual-clutch Transaxle Technology Delivers Quick Acceleration, Refined Shift Quality and Improved Fuel Economy

The all-new Dodge Journey will be available with a new dual-clutch transaxle in markets outside of North America. This is the first application of this six-speed automatic transaxle, and it will be available with the 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine. It is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of as much as six percent compared with a conventional four-speed automatic transaxle.

Developed in partnership with Getrag, the new transaxle is equipped with two independent lay-shaft style gear sets with separate clutches, that use manual transaxle-based components. During shifts, the next gear is anticipated and pre-selected. One clutch is then opened while the other is closed, allowing shifting without torque interruption. The result is quicker acceleration, refined shift quality and improved fuel economy.

AWD Keeps All Four Wheels Planted

Dodge Journey SXT and R/T models sold in the United States and Canada equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine also offer AWD capability. Journey’s all-wheel-drive system works on demand, driving only the front wheels until power to the rear wheels is needed. AWD also is used on dry pavement between speeds of 25 and 65 mph (40-105 km/h) to enhance handling during performance driving. This system provides added traction on snow, ice and other low-traction surfaces without having to be switched on and off.

Engineered to a High Safety Standard

From its high-strength structure to its active safety systems, Dodge Journey is designed and engineered to keep its occupants safe and secure. Standard safety equipment includes:

* Advanced Multi-stage Front Air Bags provide nearly instantaneous occupant protection by matching air bag output to crash severity

* Low-risk Deployment Air Bags are included for smaller and out-of-position occupants

* Front Seat-mounted Side Air Bags deploy for enhanced thorax protection during a side impact

* Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtains with Extended Up Time deploy down to provide all three rows vehicle occupant head protection during side impact

* Structural Driver and Front Passenger Knee Bolsters control occupant kinematics and reduce leg loads

* Available Child Booster Seats for children 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m) tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39kg) raise the child into the adult belted zone

* Anti-lock brakes (ABS) modulate the brakes for the driver to provide steering control while braking

* Electronic Stability Program (ESP) applies selective braking or throttle reduction to control oversteer and understeer

* Brake Assist ensures maximum braking action during panic stops

* Traction Control reduces the throttle and/or applies selective braking to optimize traction during acceleration

* Electronic Roll Mitigation determines when the vehicle is in a potential roll over condition and applies appropriate braking force to reduce the likelihood that such an event will occur

* Rollover Sensing deploys seat-mounted side air bags, side-curtain air bags and seat-belt pretensioners

* Trailer Sway Control helps maintain vehicle and trailer system stability by applying selective braking

* Event Data Recorder records the nature of a malfunction or impact event for retrieval using a service diagnostic tool

* Available ParkView™ Rear Backup Camera displays the view behind the vehicle in the navigation display when backing up or parking

* Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) alerts drivers to low tire pressure(s) to facilitate safe handling

* Brake-park Interlock prevents automatic transaxle from being shifted out of Park or Neutral without first applying brakes

* Side Guard Door Beams in front and rear doors provide occupant protection in the event of a side impact

Dodge Brand

With a U.S. market share of 6 percent, Dodge is the best-selling brand for Chrysler and the fifth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2006, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market. Dodge continues to lead the minivan market with a 20 percent market share in the United States. In the highly competitive truck market, Dodge has a 15 percent market share.

Caliber spearheaded the Dodge brand’s expansion into Europe and other international volume markets in 2006, followed by the Nitro and Avenger in the 2007 calendar year. By adding the Dodge brand to its international portfolio, Chrysler aims to achieve 1.4 percent market share in Western Europe by 2009 — more than doubling the company’s share compared with 2005. With continued strong sales, Dodge could account for approximately 30 percent of sales for Chrysler outside North America by the end of 2009.

Edited August 27, 2007 by BrewSwillis

[CMG]

I like that much better than the Caliber.

[Northstar]

The exterior looks like a Mitsu to me. The interior, while better than current Chrysler products, still is poor. The Lambdas and Flex are much better efforts. When is Dodge going to learn how to design a good interior? Everything is a square.

[DetroitNut90]

It looks like Dodge lifted that gauge pod right out of our '87 Ram van. It's only slightly better-looking than the hideous retro gauges Lincoln's been churning out.

Could be better, but not bad.

[Flybrian]

Don't stop...believin'!

Okay, on first glace, very Mitsubishi-ish for some reason, but strangely attractive. Kudos to Chrysler for their first good interior since the 1970s, with my only issue being with the blatent cut-and-paste looks of the gauge cluster. I realize this car is destined to be exported with RHD necessitating symmetry, but I hate that sort of symmetry and wish for a more integrated look. That's not a Dodge-specific complaint, but one aimed at everyone who does it so obviously. At least make me feel special for living in a country that drives on the correct side of the road.

But surprisingly...I like it.

Oh, and the name. Its okay. Crew was absolutely lousy, this only marginally so because its not a 'Dodge'-sounding name. However, I do like Journey, so I accept it.

[K.C.]

Its. . .um. . interesting. Does this replace the short wheel base Caravan? It looks like a mini-Grand Caravan.

[Camino LS6]

Anyone else read the whole intro write-up?

Whew! This thing has more features and gadgets and accessories than any 3 normal vehicles.

Seems like a decent product for Dodge, with a decent exterior look, And (take notice GM) a real name.

[blair1118]

You do have to admit that Dodge does put their whole foot and ass into coming up with creative uses of space for storage.

[2chevs]

It's not bad at all IMO, but for some reason, i get a Torrent, Taurus X love child feel from it.

[azulSKY]

Over all, it's not bad really. I give Dodge credit, it finally gives them a vehicle that can really go head to head with the Rav-4 and CRV and really, even the Escape and Equinox. The Nitro is more of an Explorer player in my idea. It's by far Chrysler Group's best interior since um....2000?

[dimitri0917]

Doesn't do it for me. Looks like how the minivans would look if they hadn't gone all boxy. But those headlights look ready for an Outlander.

[Northstar]

I just skimmed through the text. Seems like a good features list, but only 235HP?

[K.C.]

I just read the press release and this thing has just about everything. I respect Chrysler because their engineers have created some very innovative ways of creating places for seating and other storage areas. The Stow & Go Minivans are brilliant and any family with two or more kids should seriously consider one. The Ram Mega Cab has very interesting cubby holes and storages areas behind and under the back seat, and now the Journey continues this packaging brilliance. I am not sure if this is a crossover or a mini-minivan, but it should do well for small families who need alot of versatility.

[regfootball]

I'M FOREVER YOUUUURRRRSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

FAITHFULLY.............................

BUM

BUM BUM BUM

BUM BUM

BUM BA BUM

[regfootball]

WHOAAAAAAAAAAA OOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOO

WHOA O O O O

WHOA OOOOOO OOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

[vonVeezelsnider]

That's alot of buttons there!

[Intrepidation]

Wow! That exterior looks great! My favorite design since...the Magnum/Charger.

The looks a lot better than it did in spyshots..the gauge cluster looks a lot less retro now. The design overall is pretty neat...I want to see it in other colors. What I liek best about Chrysler VS GM and ford when it comes to controls is that they change them up regularly. GM still uses the bowtie stereo while Chrysler has been through 3 different ones...it nic not to see the same damn thing in every vehicle.

Oh, and I like the name a lot too!

Edited August 26, 2007 by Dodgefan

[Robert Hall]

Looks good...is Chrysler supposed to get a version of this..maybe call it Sebring X or Atlantica?

[regfootball]

IN HERIOR WOOK WIKE $h!- is this what death looks like?

ALL THE GRAY...STOP DADDY STOP STOP DADDY STOPPPPPPPPP

its absolutely terrible, the interior. cheap dash, switches....ugh

exterior surprisingly simple and crisp. i think we've hit the sweet spot! not puffy like the lambdas can look sometimes. not wide at the hips and droopy like the edge can look. On second thought, it looks too station wagony. prob ok.

will this outsell the vans?

IF

HE

EVAH HURTS YOU

TRUE LOVE

WON'T DESERT YOU

HOW WE ? AND WENT OUR SEPARATE WAYS>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Edited August 26, 2007 by regfootball

[sciguy_0504]

The exterior looks decent. I think the headlights would look better blacked out...more sporty and in-tune with the Dodge theme. What platform is this on? It looks similar to the Outlander and I want to say both share a platform but I'm not sure. The interior is alright. The design is acceptable, though I do not like the big screen. It looks like an afterthought. I hope the materials quality is good but considering most previous Chrysler products, that hope is probably false.

Nice name, though. Reg has a good idea: use Journey music in the advertising.

[dimitri0917]

will this outsell the vans?

Don't bet your retirement moneys on that. Chrysler still pushes more minivans than you can shake a stick at. And moltar, I love the name Atlantica. guess after that, they can have an... Indiana? And fwiw, the name Journey reminds me of a LandRover... Like the Discovery, and Freelander.

[Delta Force79]

Decent interior aside from the gauge cluster. the dash has a rather flowing design ( finally ) but the overall effect is still dull and drab. The interior colors are dull....maybe a beige interior will do it more justice. The exterior is a lot nicer than most recent Dodge's and Chrysler's for that matter. I still would never buy this, but it is a step in the right direction.

[regfootball]

BE GOOD TO YOURSELF WHENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

NO BODY ELSE WAHILLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL

BE GOOD TO YOURSELF!!!!!!!! (image of young couple driving off in a new journey!)

[Intrepidation]

It shares the basic architecture with the Caliber/Patriot/Compass/Avenger/Sebring/Lancer/and so on.

[CMG]

BE GOOD TO YOURSELF WHENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

NO BODY ELSE WAHILLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL

BE GOOD TO YOURSELF!!!!!!!! (image of young couple driving off in a new journey!)

OK.

To your bedroom.

NOW!!!!!!!!

LOL

[Robert Hall]

Don't bet your retirement moneys on that. Chrysler still pushes more minivans than you can shake a stick at. And moltar, I love the name Atlantica. guess after that, they can have an... Indiana? And fwiw, the name Journey reminds me of a LandRover... Like the Discovery, and Freelander.

Journey does sound like a good Land Rover name... I was thinking Atlantica to go with Pacifica.

[MyerShift]

Wow! The exterior is incredibly attractive considering Chrysler's recent string of bloopers.

The interior will largely be let down I'm sure by the quality of the materials.

I've sat in the new Chrysler Town&Country, and well, the only semisoft areas are around the armrests. There is no padded surface at all on the dash, and I expect this to be no different, and that's disappointing.

[PurdueGuy]

ZZZZZZZZ...

Looks like a Dodge Taurus X

[Robert Hall]

Wow! The exterior is incredibly attractive considering Chrysler's recent string of bloopers.

The interior will largely be let down I'm sure by the quality of the materials.

I've sat in the new Chrysler Town&Country, and well, the only semisoft areas are around the armrests. There is no padded surface at all on the dash, and I expect this to be no different, and that's disappointing.

What's strange with Chrysler interiors is that they used to have padded surfaces on the dashes of some models..on my '00 GC, the upper dash (and surrounding the center stack) is a nice, squishy soft plastic..but the center console, door panels, pillars and lower dash are rock-hard plastic..

[MyerShift]

What's strange with Chrysler interiors is that they used to have padded surfaces on the dashes of some models..on my '00 GC, the upper dash (and surrounding the center stack) is a nice, squishy soft plastic..but the center console, door panels, pillars and lower dash are rock-hard plastic..

Well, at least Chrysler interiors used to have dash pads, lol!

[Intrepidation]

What's strange with Chrysler interiors is that they used to have padded surfaces on the dashes of some models..on my '00 GC, the upper dash (and surrounding the center stack) is a nice, squishy soft plastic..but the center console, door panels, pillars and lower dash are rock-hard plastic..

LH models had soft material on the upper/mid dash, upper door panels, and all arm rests. So do LX cars...and that's about it.

Edited August 26, 2007 by Dodgefan

[Cory Wolfe]

It's about time Chrysler designed another attractive vehicle. After the Sebring, Avenger, Caliber, Compass, and the new vans... I lost all hope. It looks great. I have not one complaint about the exterior. The interior is, surprisingly, not that bad. It still looks to be on the cheap side, is still relatively square (literally), and has that pitiful looking gauge cluster. It does seem to have some sort of flow and has some nice details, however. Seems to be full of innovative features, as well.

[regfootball]

wheel in the sky keeps on turnin............

i think the pacifica was the point where dcx changed their game. the pacifica interior had nice padded surfaces and such, and rounded forms.

at that point chrysler stopped and really went off in a very bad interior direction

imagine how nice the 300's interior would be if they actually had nice plastic and such....

Edited August 26, 2007 by regfootball

[!!!TED!!!]

It looks fairly nice. Much more visually interesting than the Ford Flex.

Interior is still a box of boxes.

[ZL-1]

I actually like how this thing looks! The 1970's gauge cluster should go away, though...

EDIT - Won't this be a little porky for the VW 2.0L turbodiesel?

Edited August 26, 2007 by ZL-1

[thegriffon]

Don't stop...believin'!

Okay, on first glace, very Mitsubishi-ish for some reason, but strangely attractive.

That's because it looks like the Montero Sport, which was a somewhat smaller, rwd/awd crossover.

[ehaase]

How much does this thing weigh? I hope it's not a tub like the Lambdas and the Edge.

[Robert Hall]

Nice name, though. Reg has a good idea: use Journey music in the advertising.

2009 Dodge Journey: Don't Stop Believin.

[Robert Hall]

How much does this thing weigh? I hope it's not a tub like the Lambdas and the Edge.

I would hope not..it's based on the Avenger/Sebring w/a 113 inch wheelbase and a 4cyl standard...maybe 4k lbs or less?

One thing I wasn't sure of..is the Caliber/Patriot/Compass on a smaller platform that is also related to the Avenger/Sebring or is it something different?

Edited August 26, 2007 by moltar

[Sixty8panther]

Too bad it shares the FWD(AWD) platform with the Lancer & Avanger which are both $hitpiles of crap.

Stylistically this is probably the nicest car in the Dodge lineup since the Charger. It looks a bit boring

but by comparison to the super-deluxe-fugly Nitro & extra-McPuke Caliber this is downright attractive.

[cire]

It does look better without the camouflage than it did in the spy shots. The exterior definitely looks better than the recently redesigned minivans. The interior has a lot of thoughtful/useful touches, although the overall design is still quite unattractive. At least the model name is decent ("Crew" did not evoke any passion or imagery at all). I don't think this is the vehicle that will put Chrysler LLC on solid standing, but it might be a step in the right direction.

As far as the Chrysler brand using this platform, I would like to see the replacements for both the PT Cruiser and Pacifica be based on it. I believe Chrysler has considered dropping both vehicles from the lineup. With crossovers as popular as ever, I believe this would be a mistake. Chrysler also has market equity built up in both model names, so why not give both models a shot on a new platform. Keep the retro wagon styling for the PT Cruiser (and its legion of enthusiasts) and give the new Pacifica a classy, updated look. Whatever Chrysler does, I hope they do not just slap a Chrysler grill on a Dodge Journey and pass it off as the new Pacifica. The Journey and Pacifica need to go their "separate ways" in the styling department.

[ocnblu]

Very sharp all around. I thought so from the spy shots. After THREE thunderstorms last night stuck in my tent, something like this would be a nice vehicle for camping, and all-around use. The floor-mounted cooler is badass. I hope the third seat is optional, all I'd want would be a 5 seater.

EDIT: Well, the text article did not appear on my screen when I first posted this. Now that I've read it, I understand a whole lot more. No need for a SWB Caravan when this thing has so much minivan-like capability, coupled with SUV looks and attitude. Nice planning on Chrysler's part, with the decline of the minivan market in general. They've hit a sweet spot in the market.

Edited August 26, 2007 by ocnblu

[Autoholic217]

Very sharp all around. I thought so from the spy shots. After THREE thunderstorms last night stuck in my tent, something like this would be a nice vehicle for camping, and all-around use. The floor-mounted cooler is badass. I hope the third seat is optional, all I'd want would be a 5 seater.

It is, they call it 5+2 seating.

[K.C.]

Looks good...is Chrysler supposed to get a version of this..maybe call it Sebring X or Atlantica?

===================================================================

From what I read, Chrysler is getting a version of this but I am not sure of the name.

[jbartley]

i really doubt chryslers ability to design and excute product that looks good and sells.

[cletus8269]

===================================================================

From what I read, Chrysler is getting a version of this but I am not sure of the name.

chrysler reo (re-0) kia may get mad but at least they can stick with a band name hehe

[buyacargetacheck]

Love it! Finally, a mid-sized station wagon available with a 4-cylinder and what looks like a lot of cargo room. The Accord and Camry wagons are back!

Fuel economy stinks though. Like a lot of Chrysler products lately it probably weighs too much. Hurry back to the drawing board guys: this thing should match or better the RAV4 in fuel economy.

Edited August 26, 2007 by buyacargetacheck

[thegriffon]

Errr. I think they are pitching this against the Highlander more than the RAV4:

Equinox 3.6 awd: 16/23

Highlander 3.5 L awd: 17/23

Journey 3.5 L awd: 16/23

Pilot 3.5 Lawd: 15/20

XL7 3.6 L awd: 17/23 (2007 data so lop off 3 mpg or so)

Endeavour 3.8 awd: 17/21 (2007)

Edge 3.5 awd: 17/24 (2007)

Decent fuel economy it seems.

[BrewSwillis]

I updated the first post with the full press release.

[buyacargetacheck]

It seems they are, but it looks like interior and cargo volume are going to less than the Highlander, and the Edge and Equinox don't offer 3rd rows. Plus, none of the ones you listed offer 4 cylinders. Therefore, the natural competitor in terms of size and power (and probably price), at least, seems to be the RAV4.

Errr. I think they are pitching this against the Highlander more than the RAV4:

Equinox 3.6 awd: 16/23

Highlander 3.5 L awd: 17/23

Journey 3.5 L awd: 16/23

Pilot 3.5 Lawd: 15/20

XL7 3.6 L awd: 17/23 (2007 data so lop off 3 mpg or so)

Endeavour 3.8 awd: 17/21 (2007)

Edge 3.5 awd: 17/24 (2007)

Decent fuel economy it seems.

Edited August 26, 2007 by buyacargetacheck