Dodge Journey SXT 3.5L

My review is actually for Dodge Journey CRD SXT 2.0L Diesel Auto.

Unfortunately, it is not listed on Review Centre's data base.

I had this car for 10 hours when I took my Chrysler 300C for a service. In the 10 hours, I did 70 miles on the motorway and about 40 miles driving around Bristol City.

1, Driving experience: I was not impressed by the driving experience in this Dodge despite the engine being sourced from Volkswagen according to TopGear. The diesel engine was noisy and sounded very gruff. While driving around town, the ride was firm and jittery. Acceleration from a still position was like dragging a horse to the stream. The engine was unresponsive. In my opinion, the engine (2.0L) is too small for this size of MPV.

Though on the motorway, the ride was smooth and the engine /road noise was bearable

2, Quality: The quality of the interior of this particular trim feels VERY CHEAP! I couldn't figure out how Dodge would have spoilt an otherwise beautifully crafted vehicle with such a cheap-plastiky interior. I was very disappointed because when i picked up my Chrysler 300C, my wife fell in love with the Dodge because of its looks and seven seats. When i brought the Dodge home and we both took a ride in it....she said "this was not the vehicle I wanted"

3, Controls: The controls are quite easy to use but they feel very stiff. For example, the indicator control was hard to push. The accelerator pedal feels located in an awkward position as my right foot keeps pressing on the side of the leg-room panel

4, Practicality: The vehicle is a seven-seater and really looks big from the outside. With all the seats up, the both space is smaller than that of the Kia Picanto! Folding the seat to accommodate luggage seems easy as I also visited the local SITA site with some unwanted household stuff.

Conclusion: The vehicle looks cool exteriorly but I would not buy this vehicle and I hope Dodge will soon update the interior and the engine. The Seven-seat Kia Carens may be a better option.