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2009 Dodge Journey R/T AWD

The 2009 Dodge Journey is a well-sized seven-passenger crossover with a full raft of cabin tech options to keep occupants entertained, but its thirsty V-6 spells trouble at the pump.

CNET Reviews staff
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The Dodge Journey, announced last year at the 2007 Frankfurt auto show, is a seven passenger crossover vehicle, combining the rugged looks of an SUV with the practicality of a mini-van.
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The Journey can be had in three trim levels, SE, SXT, and R/T. The latter two trims can also be had with all-wheel-drive. Our review car was a top-of-the-line R/T AWD.
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The 3.5-liter V-6 in the Journey R/T isn't technically spectacular, relying on a single overhead cam with no variable valve timing, and it felt just adequate to get the Journey moving.
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As a larger crossover, the Journey doesn't look much different than an SUV, but it is built on the Dodge Avenger car platform.
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For the Journey, the Avenger platform is stretched.
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With the rear seats folded away, the cargo area is cavernous.
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The two front rows get individual seats, while the rear folding seat is a bench.
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Dodge keeps its steering wheel controls simple, with just a few buttons on the front spokes. However, there are more audio control buttons on the back of the steering wheel.
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We weren't impressed with the interior materials or the fit, but you can get a lot of tech options in the Journey.
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The six speed automatic offers a manual shift mode. Its sixth gear should help save gas during freeway driving.
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The MyGig controls and disc slot are set low on the console. This control panel includes a USB port, auxiliary audio input, and a button for the UConnect hands-free phone system.
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The maps on the Journey's navigation system look very good, and include information on traffic and road construction.
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Entering destinations can be a little tedious, as you have to use a dial to put in each letter.
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You can rip music to the MyGig system's hard drive, or transfer it directly from a USB drive.
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The USB port can be used for a thumb drive or to plug in an iPod, which can be controlled from the MyGig system.
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The disc player also reads MP3 CDs, giving you many options for digital music.
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The Journey uses an Infinity audio system.
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Although this file management screen looks promising, it works best for music, as you can't load very many photos into MyGig.
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UConnect is a separate option from MyGig. This phone system lets you pair up a Bluetooth-enabled phone and make hands-free calls.
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A rear seat entertainment system is also an option with the Dodge Journey.
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As a convenience feature, the console includes clips for two soda cans, plus a cooling mechanism.

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