2009 Dodge Journey in Madison

Sometimes, it seems that carmakers invent names for their products solely so they can insert corny lines into media-presentation speeches. Take the recent launch of the Dodge Journey: "The Journey," the attending media were told, "is always more than the sum of its parts." Heady stuff, especially when you consider that Dodge's new crossover is built on the same platform that underpins the decidedly mediocre Chrysler Sebring.

Regardless, the pitch makes sense: Dodge is aiming the Journey at people in transition (new families and recent empty nesters are the two primary targets) in the hope that it will be seen as something more than just another parts-bin-built crossover. As such, the Auburn Hills company decided to emphasize people-carrying ability over power and budget-oriented practical touches over frippery.

Predictably, then, seating capacity and clever available features are the Journey's strong points. As many as seven passengers can be crammed into the Dodge's interior if you choose the optional third-row seat, and the list of standard equipment includes such positives as stability control; a six-disc, MP3-compatible CD changer; electronic brake assist; myriad storage spaces (see sidebar); and side-curtain air bags for all three rows of seats. Hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, rear air-conditioning, a backup camera, and a 368-watt Infinity sound system, among other goodies, are all optional.

From the curb, the Journey looks a lot bigger than it is, and therein lies the rub: at sixteen feet long, five and a half feet tall, and six feet wide, Dodge's not-quite-a-minivan, not-quite-a-car doesn't have a lot of interior space into which to cram its many features.... Read full article