2017 Dodge Journey: A Versatile Family Crossover
The 2017 Dodge Journey positions itself as a practical and affordable choice in the mid-size crossover segment, offering a blend of SUV utility and minivan-like passenger capacity. It's designed for families and individuals who prioritize space, comfort, and value.
Highlights
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Engine Options:
- 2.4L DOHC 16-Valve Dual VVT Engine: This is the standard engine, offering 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is adequate for daily commuting and city driving but can feel underpowered for spirited acceleration or heavy loads.
- 3.6L Pentastar VVT V6 Engine: Available on higher trims, this more potent engine delivers a robust 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It's mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This is the recommended engine for those seeking better performance, especially when the Journey is fully loaded or used for highway cruising.
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Safety Features: The 2017 Dodge Journey comes equipped with a suite of standard and available safety technologies designed to protect occupants:
- Antilock Disc Brakes (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of traction by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Reduces engine power and applies brakes to spinning wheels to maintain grip, especially on slippery surfaces.
- Seven Standard Airbags: Including front, side-impact, curtain, and a driver's knee airbag, providing comprehensive occupant protection.
- Available ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera: Displays a wide-angle view of the area behind the vehicle on the Uconnect touchscreen, aiding in safe reversing.
- Available Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Path Detection (RCP): BSM alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, while RCP warns of approaching traffic when reversing out of a parking spot.
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Trim Summary: The 2017 Dodge Journey is offered in several distinct trims, each building upon the previous with increased features and amenities:
- SE: The base model, providing essential features for a comfortable and functional ride.
- SXT: Adds more convenience and appearance upgrades over the SE, often including alloy wheels and upgraded interior materials.
- Crossroad: A popular trim that introduces a more rugged, stylish aesthetic with unique wheels, distinctive exterior accents, and often upgraded upholstery.
- Limited: Offers a significant step up in luxury and technology, typically featuring leather seating, heated front seats, and advanced infotainment options.
- R/T: The sportiest trim, often featuring the more powerful V6 engine as standard, sport-tuned suspension, and unique interior/exterior styling cues for a more engaging driving experience.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Flexible Seating and Cargo: The Journey offers an available third row, making it a 7-seater vehicle, a rarity in its class. It also boasts clever storage solutions like the optional "Flip 'n Stow" passenger seat with a hidden storage compartment and under-floor storage bins in the cargo area, enhancing its practicality for families and everyday life.
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for a comfortable and compliant ride, absorbing road imperfections well, which is a significant plus for long journeys.
- Uconnect Infotainment System: Dodge's Uconnect system is lauded for its user-friendliness and responsiveness, featuring touchscreen controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and available navigation and satellite radio.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Dodge Journey typically translates to a straightforward and practical ownership experience. The vehicle is generally reliable, with routine maintenance being the primary requirement. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and standard fluid checks. The availability of parts is widespread, and many independent mechanics are familiar with the Journey's mechanics, potentially leading to more affordable service options compared to specialized or luxury brands.
Insurance costs for the 2017 Journey are usually competitive, especially for the lower trim levels. Factors like the V6 engine, specific safety features, and your personal driving record will influence the final premium, but it generally falls within the average range for its class.
Potential Considerations
While the Dodge Journey offers many advantages, buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks:
- Aging Platform: The 2017 Journey is based on an older platform, which can be noticeable in its driving dynamics and interior design compared to more contemporary rivals.
- Base Engine Performance: The standard 2.4L four-cylinder engine can feel underpowered, particularly when accelerating or carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. Opting for the V6 is strongly recommended for a more satisfying driving experience.
- Fuel Economy: The fuel efficiency, especially with the V6 engine, is not as competitive as some newer crossovers in the segment.
- Third-Row Space: While a welcome feature, the third-row seating is best suited for children or shorter adults on shorter trips due to limited legroom.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Dodge Journey remains a compelling option for families seeking a practical, spacious, and affordable crossover with the added benefit of available seven-passenger seating. Its comfortable ride, user-friendly Uconnect system, and clever storage solutions contribute to its appeal. While its aging platform and base engine performance might be points of consideration, opting for the V6 engine and higher trim levels can significantly enhance the ownership experience, making it a versatile and value-oriented choice for everyday use.