A TRUE hybrid is better than the sum of its parts.
In many ways, Dodge's seven-seater, the Journey, is just that. In others it could do with more refinement.
- IN A WORD
- MAKE: Dodge
- MODEL: Journey
- COST: From $36,990
- ROAD TEST: John Parry
The Journey is designed in the US, built in Mexico and the diesel version, as tested, is fitted with a 2.0-litre Volkswagen engine and a German-US twin-clutch automatic gearbox driving the front wheels.
In its favour the Journey looks more like an SUV than a people mover, is versatile, well equipped, has theatre-style seating, a comfortable ride, a host of storage bins and 90-degree opening rear doors and all seats except the driver's fold to a flat floor.
But it feels bulky to drive, has flat seats, is noisy and expensive in diesel form and the transmission is not as decisive as expected.
There are three models - two petrol and one diesel - all automatic.
The SXT is a keen $36,990 and the R/T $41,990, both powered by a 2.7-litre petrol V6 driving through a six-speed automatic transmission.
The diesel CRD R/T is, by comparison, a pricey $46,990.
Equipment on the SXT includes six airbags, seven-seats, stability control, traction control, alloy wheels, climate control, cruise control, in-floor storage bins, a glove box cooler, tyre-pressure monitoring, six-disc audio with MP3, a rechargeable torch and a space saver spare wheel.
The R/T adds leather seats, vehicle information display, heated front seats, 19-inch alloy wheels and higher grade trim.
It looks like a four-wheel drive but is in fact a front-wheel drive people mover designed to carry up to seven occupants on family business, not venture off road.
Up front it looks bold with its bluff nose and trademark cross-hair grille tapering up to a stylish rear and enhanced by big wheels and prominent wheel arches.
Inside the driver is confronted with a sloping high-topped dash that stretches well forward to the windscreen and makes judging the frontal extremities a challenge. Rear vision too is tested. Rear parking sensors are an option.
The interior trim of the R/T is classy and all the controls are clear and easy to use. There are plenty of storage facilities including two under-floor bins with space for 12 cans of drink plus ice. However the two-tone leather seats are short on lateral support.
Load flexibility is impressive with all the seats except the driver's folding individually or together to a form a flat floor.
The engine itself is well proven having powered VW and Audi models for a several years, but there is more lag off the line than expected. Engine output is 103kW at 4000rpm and 310Nm from 1750-2000rpm (10Nm less than in the latest Golf).
The Getrag transmission is similar in concept to VW's own DSG, but is not as quick or intuitive.
Once under way, throttle response is strong and flexible and it cruises easily in undulating terrain.
The suspension is set up for a smooth and supple ride.
The brakes are up to the task, the steering is light and linear and wind and road noise are subdued.
Fuel economy is a plus at an official combined figure of 7.0-litres/100 km. However at a price premium of $5000 over the V6 petrol and a 30 per cent higher fuel price, the diesel won't be everyone's choice.
