Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Journey |
| Generation | Journey (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (283 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | CUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 283 Hp @ 6350 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4400 rpm (260.36 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Pentastar / ERB |
| Engine displacement | 3605 cm3 (219.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1843 kg (4063.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2483 kg (5474.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1915 l (67.63 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79.87 l (21.1 US gal | 17.57 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1135 kg (2502.25 lbs.) |
| Length | 4887 mm (192.4 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2127 mm (83.74 in.) |
| Height | 1692 mm (66.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2890 mm (113.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 989 mm (38.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1008 mm (39.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.368 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 328×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 225/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7J x 19 |
The Dodge Journey, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2010, represented Dodge’s entry into the mid-size crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment. Produced from 2010 through 2019, the Journey aimed to provide a flexible and affordable family vehicle. The 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an automatic transmission was a significant offering within the Journey lineup, positioned as a step up from the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder, offering substantially more power and a more refined driving experience. This variant catered to buyers needing more capability for towing or those prioritizing quicker acceleration and overall performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Journey variant is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, designated with the ERB code. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The Pentastar engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. This engine was a significant upgrade from earlier Dodge V6 offerings, known for its smooth operation and relatively high output. The 6-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Chrysler, was the sole transmission option for this engine. This transmission featured a torque converter and electronically controlled shifts, designed to balance fuel efficiency with responsive acceleration. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to provide adequate performance for both city and highway driving, though it wasn’t geared for outright sportiness.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6L V6 automatic Journey offered a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the base four-cylinder model. Acceleration was brisk, making merging onto highways and passing maneuvers considerably easier. While not a sports car, the V6 provided sufficient power for most everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, although some drivers noted a slight hesitation during downshifts. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to predictable handling, but it lacked the all-weather capability of available all-wheel-drive models. The weight of the vehicle, around 4063 lbs, was noticeable, particularly during cornering. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Journey (available in other markets), the automatic offered convenience but sacrificed some driver engagement and potentially a small amount of fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 automatic Journey typically came in higher trim levels, such as the R/T or Limited. Standard features often included alloy wheels, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable seats. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, navigation, and upgraded sound systems. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, though not as luxurious as some competitors. The Journey’s flexible seating configuration, with available third-row seating, was a key selling point for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Journey utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup aimed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were included at both ends to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion, providing adequate feedback and ease of use. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, with 17-inch and 19-inch options available.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Journey 3.6L V6 automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its spacious interior, flexible seating, and powerful engine. However, some criticized its fuel economy, which was relatively poor compared to competitors, and its somewhat unrefined ride quality. Compared to other mid-size CUVs like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot, the Journey offered a lower price point but lacked the same level of refinement and fuel efficiency. The 3.6L V6 offered a significant performance advantage over the base 2.5L four-cylinder Journey, but the fuel economy penalty was substantial. The all-wheel-drive version of the 3.6L Journey was often preferred by buyers in regions with inclement weather.
Legacy
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although some owners reported issues with oil consumption and timing chain wear over the long term. The automatic transmission generally held up well, but regular maintenance, including fluid changes, was crucial for longevity. On the used car market, the Journey 3.6L V6 automatic remains an affordable option for families needing a spacious and capable CUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for oil consumption issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Journey, while not a class leader, provided a compelling value proposition for many buyers during its production run.
