This is one of those few "answers to questions nobody asked" that leaves me wondering why we weren't asking. The Journey finds that sliver of middle ground between a crossover and a minivan and then steps down a size class.
The result is an efficient mover of people (5) and things (within reason). And, despite some plasticky and unimaginatively designed interior bits, it's pleasant to drive.
The $26,785 base price of the R/T model we tested buys front wheel drive (an AWD model is available), a 3.5-liter high output V6 mated to a six-speed transmission (no doubt responsible for the EPA estimated 16 city/23 highway miles per gallon...which would have been worse with a 5-speed), and just about every option you could ask for. 19 inch wheels are standard on the R/T.
Five star crash ratings in all categories except rollover, where four's the max.
It just struck me: It's not a minivan or crossover at all. Dodge has just re-invented the midsize station wagon.
As the Firesign Theatre used to say: Forward, into the past!
Hey, a good idea is a good idea. And the Journey counts.
