2010 Dodge Journey Crew AWD

My, what a difference an engine makes. The last Journey I drove was a base model, fitted with the anemic 2.4-inline-four-cylinder and a four-speed automatic. When fitted with a V-6 and a six-speed gearbox, however, Dodge's midsize crossover is actually a competent offering. The 3.5-liter six-cylinder offers adequate power, and the interior, albeit chock full of hard plastic trim, offers plenty of space. The third-row seat is, at best, suited for kids, but it is roomier and more sophisticated that the slender folding bench used in Mitsubishi's Outlander. I expect the Journey to further gain credibility next year, as the model is slated to receive Chrysler's new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, along with an interior makeover and a mild cosmetic overhaul. Is it worth the wait? Perhaps, but it's hard to argue against the pricing of the current 2010 model. This test example, an all-wheel-drive Crew V-6, was fitted with every available feature including navigation, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, trailer tow group, integrated child seats, and Sirius TV, yet carries a reasonable MSRP of $34,260. Evan McCausland, Web Producer