MSRP: $18,995 - $31,795
Invoice: $18,855 - $30,251
MPG: 19 City / 26 Hwy
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2012 Dodge Journey Review

Review Last Updated: 4/23/13

Scorecard

Overall: 2012 Dodge Journey U.S. News Best Cars 7.3
Critics' Rating: 7.8
Performance: 7.2
Interior: 7.1
Safety: 9.4
Reliability:
How we calculate scores
Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

  • Pleasant ride and handling
  • Straightforward infotainment system
  • Powerful optional V6 engine
  • Optional seating for seven
  • Underpowered base engine
  • Second and third rows are tight for adults

Research Other Years

Test drivers like the 2012 Dodge Journey because it does a lot of things well. Unfortunately, so do the Journey’s top rivals.

Reviewers think the 2012 Dodge Journey stands out among compact SUVs because it has plenty of cargo space, interior storage and standard features. Add optional child booster seats, an infotainment system that isn’t a chore to use and a very low base price to the mix, and the Dodge Journey is pretty difficult to turn down.

In fact, there isn’t much test drivers dislike about the Journey, and those who do complain only criticize two things. They say the base four-cylinder engine is very underpowered, and that the second and third rows of seats aren't accomodating for adults.

Despite so few complaints, some test drivers are apprehensive about recommending the 2012 Dodge Journey because most crossovers can do everything the Journey can. They think it’s best to check out rivals first before settling on the Journey. However, if a low price and seating for seven is most important to you, reviewers say the Journey is worth a look. 

Other SUVs to Consider

The Kia Sportage is a perfect pick for shoppers who like the Journey’s low base price, but want a few more standard features, like Bluetooth and a USB port. Like the Journey, the Sportage has an optional engine. It’s a turbocharged four-cylinder that reviewers really like, though it does bump the Sportage’s price up quite a bit because it’s only available on the highest trim. But shoppers who don’t need a lot of power should be pleased with the base engine’s performance.

Taller adults will be squished out of the Journey’s second row, but if you need ample space for your tall teens or carpooling with coworkers, check out the GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox. Built on the same platform, these GM siblings have two of the largest second rows in the class thanks to a rear seat that slides forward and back. Although the Equinox and Terrain cost more than the Journey, they also have higher fuel economy ratings.

Details: Dodge Journey

Dodge refreshed the Journey in 2011, so there aren’t a lot of updates to report this year. Other than new trim levels, and new features such as optional heated leather front seats on Crew models, black leather seats with red stitching on R/T models and an optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system, the Journey is pretty much the same as last year’s model.

The Journey is available in American Value Package, SE, SXT, Crew and R/T trims. See the full list of 2012 Dodge Journey specs.

  • "This crossover is a moderately sporty people mover with clever cargo options and room for up to 7. Thoughtful features like in-floor storage wells and available child-booster seats make it a great family vehicle. Journey's pricing is quite aggressive, too, even when comprehensively equipped." -- Consumer Guide 
  • "The 2012 Dodge Journey doesn't quite win our wholehearted approval since its competition remains remain tough to beat. Both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are fully redesigned this year, boasting higher fuel economy and more refined driving dynamics. You might also want to check out the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester." -- Edmunds

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