The Dodge Journey 3.5 V6 AWD Automatic represents a significant offering in the mid-size crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment, produced by Dodge from 2009 to 2010. Positioned as a more powerful and capable variant within the Journey lineup, it aimed to appeal to families and drivers seeking enhanced performance and all-weather capability. This model year marked the initial introduction of the Journey, and the 3.5L V6 AWD configuration was a key component of its early marketing strategy, offering a step up from the base 2.7L engine. It was built on the JC49 platform, shared with the Mitsubishi Outlander and Peugeot 4007.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Journey |
| Generation | Journey |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (235 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | CUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 235 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 315 Nm @ 4000 rpm (232.33 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 3518 cm3 (214.68 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt, 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.3 l (9.83 US qt, 8.18 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1910-1920 kg (4210.83 – 4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460-470 kg (1014.13 – 1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1122 l (39.62 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1915 l (67.63 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal, 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Length | 4888 mm (192.44 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2127 mm (83.74 in.) |
| Height | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2890 mm (113.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1571 mm (61.85 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 989 mm (38.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1009 mm (39.72 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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, 302×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 305×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Dodge Journey 3.5 V6 AWD Automatic, launched in 2009, was a crucial model for Dodge as they entered the increasingly competitive mid-size CUV market. Designed to offer a blend of practicality, space, and performance, the Journey aimed to attract families seeking an alternative to traditional minivans. The 3.5L V6 engine, paired with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, represented the upper echelon of the Journey lineup, providing a more robust driving experience than the base engine options. This variant was primarily sold in North America, where the demand for larger vehicles and all-wheel-drive systems was particularly strong.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Journey 3.5 V6 AWD lies the 3.5-liter V6 engine, internally designated as the EV6. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V-engine featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produces 235 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 315 Nm (232.33 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s architecture prioritizes smooth power delivery and reliability over outright performance. The automatic transmission used is a 6-speed unit, providing relatively smooth shifts and contributing to acceptable fuel economy for a vehicle of this size and weight. The all-wheel-drive system is an on-demand system, primarily driving the front wheels but engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost.
Driving Characteristics
The Journey 3.5 V6 AWD delivers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness compared to the lower-powered engine options. While not a sports car, the V6 provides sufficient power for confident highway merging and passing maneuvers. The 6-speed automatic transmission is tuned for comfort, with gear changes generally smooth and unobtrusive. The all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and traction, particularly in inclement weather conditions. However, the vehicle’s weight (approximately 1910-1920 kg) does impact its agility, and handling is best described as comfortable rather than sporty. The gear ratios are optimized for everyday driving, prioritizing fuel efficiency at cruising speeds while still providing adequate power when needed. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Journey, the automatic offers convenience but sacrifices some driver engagement and potentially a slight amount of fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5 V6 AWD trim typically included a generous array of standard features. These commonly included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and basic cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, often denoted by designations like “R/T”, added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and various appearance packages. Safety features such as anti-lock brakes (ABS) and multiple airbags were standard across the lineup.
Chassis & Braking
The Journey utilizes an independent suspension system at all four wheels. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension features a multi-link setup, also with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration aims to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The relatively heavy weight of the vehicle necessitates a robust braking system to ensure adequate stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Journey 3.5 V6 AWD was generally well-received by critics as a practical and spacious CUV. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials were not as refined as those found in some competing models. Fuel economy was also a point of criticism, as the V6 engine consumed a significant amount of fuel, especially in urban driving conditions. Compared to the base 2.7L engine, the 3.5L V6 offered a substantial performance upgrade, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. Compared to rivals like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander, the Journey offered a more affordable price point but lacked some of the refinement and brand reputation of those established players.
Legacy
The Dodge Journey, including the 3.5 V6 AWD variant, enjoyed moderate success in the market. While it didn’t achieve the sales figures of some of its competitors, it established Dodge as a contender in the mid-size CUV segment. The 3.5L V6 engine proved to be relatively reliable, although routine maintenance, such as oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial for long-term durability. On the used car market, the Journey 3.5 V6 AWD remains a relatively affordable option for families seeking a spacious and capable vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for higher fuel costs and the importance of a thorough pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential mechanical issues.
