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2010 Dodge Journey First Impressions

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Luc Gagné
The popular do-it-all vehicle
New for 2010
For 2010, Dodge made some minor updates and improvements, starting with a small "Fuel Saver Indicator" on the instrument panel. It lights up anytime the driver reaches the fuel saver mode target range to help maintain fuel-efficient driving habits.

All four trim levels now include active front head restraints that move forward and upward in the event of a rear-end collision to reduce potential injuries.

Movie lovers and hyperactive kids can relax and have a fun time on the road with the larger, 9-inch DVD monitors built in the front headrests (SXT and R/T with Rear Seat Video Group).

Safety continues to be one of the Journey’s top attributes. ABS brakes, All-Speed Traction Control, Electronic Stability Program, Brake Assist and Trailer Sway Damping all come standard. Speaking of which, towing capacity increases from 450 to 1600 kilos (1,000 to 3,500 lbs) when you choose the V6 instead of the 4-cylinder.

Safety continues to be one of the Journey’s top attributes. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)

Two powertrains, two personalities
The Dodge Journey R/T we briefly tested on the snow-covered track of Mecaglisse in Notre-Dame-de-la-Merci, Quebec, managed to remind us how much it stands out from the other three models.

The firmer suspension (emphasized by the 19-inch wheels) and sharper steering (not overly assisted) bring some extra sportiness to the equation, although the Journey should never be mistaken for anything but a family-oriented crossover.

Likewise, the leather-appointed buckets, which were heated (thank God!), and the 368-watt, 6-speaker stereo with subwoofer add a touch of luxury, but nowhere near enough to pretend it’s a Lexus. The abundance of hard, black-coloured plastics offers a stark reminder.

Clearly, though, buyers don’t care. With competitive pricing, a versatile layout, plenty of interesting options and good looks overall, what else could you possibly want?

2010 Dodge Journey R/T
dodge journey 2010
2010 Dodge Journey R/T
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Luc Gagné
Luc Gagné
Automotive expert
  • More than 30 years of experience as an automotive journalist
  • Over 59 test drives in the past year
  • Attended over 150 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists