All-new Dodge Journey Makes Its European Production Debut at the Geneva Motor Show

  • With a bold, sporty design, Journey continues the Dodge brand’s global expansion
  • Journey offers versatility, safety, loads of storage and seating flexibility
  • Powertrain options include petrol and diesel, manual and automatic transaxles and an all-new dual-clutch automatic transaxle
February 25, 2008 , Geneva -  The all-new Dodge Journey is engineered to meet life’s changing demands by offering a unique combination of versatility and flexibility in a sporty, sexy package. It takes on the practicality of a minivan, the capability of an SUV and the overall efficiency of a passenger car.

“The all-new Dodge Journey blends the best attributes of multiple segments into an all-new right-sized crossover for the Dodge brand,” said Thomas Hausch, Vice President – International Sales, Chrysler LLC. “It delivers bold Dodge attitude with purposeful versatility, safety, quality and reliability at a great value that will convince many customers that found the current competitive offerings in the minivan segment too boring or, in the station wagon segment, lacking seating space and versatility.”

The powertrain choices for Dodge Journey have global customers in mind with a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine matched to either a six-speed manual transaxle or the first Getrag six-speed, dual-clutch automatic transaxle for a Dodge vehicle. Petrol engine choices include the economical 2.4-litre in-line four cylinder and 2.7-litre V-6 engines.

Clever, flexible seating and storage combinations include standard five-passenger seating with spacious cargo room and available 5+2 seating for times when additional passengers are along on the journey. Spacious storage bins, hidden in the floor and under the front passenger seat cushion, combined with a variety of fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, make Dodge Journey flexible and functional.

“The Dodge Journey is designed to meet the needs of customers ranging from young singles, couples and families with small children to mature families,” said Judy Wheeler, Director – International Marketing. “These people want their vehicle to have the flexibility to do more in terms of seating people or storing gear, and they want it to be fun to drive.”

The Dodge Journey will be available in mid 2008. Five-passenger seating is standard on all models, and 5+2 seating is optional on SXT and R/T models.

Powertrain
Dodge Journey features several engine and transaxle combinations that meet the needs of the diverse crossover buyer. These include an efficient and powerful 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine and a choice of two fuel-efficient petrol engines: the 2.4-litre four-cylinder World Engine and the 2.7-litre V-6 engine.

Dodge Journey comes standard with a 2.4-litre World Engine featuring dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT), intake manifold flow control valves, acoustic cylinder head cover, dual counter-rotating balance shafts and an acoustic oil pan. This engine produces 129 kW (175 hp DIN) and 225 Nm (166 lb.-ft.) of torque.

Optional is a 2.0-litre turbo diesel. This direct-injection turbo diesel engine uses high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder. The injectors are electronically controlled for high power and torque output with optimal fuel efficiency. The turbo diesel engine positions the Dodge Journey competitively in its class for power, torque, top speed, acceleration and fuel economy. Maximum power is 103 kW (140 hp DIN), and peak torque is 310 Nm (229 lb.-ft.).

Dodge Journey also features a 2.7-litre V-6 engine; standard on R/T and optional on SXT. It comes coupled with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transaxle, and the engine produces 139 kW (188 hp DIN) and 258 Nm (191 lb.-ft.) of torque. Combined with either transaxle, the 2.7-litre petrol engine delivers a very useable combination of sporty acceleration and fuel efficiency.

Dual-clutch Six-speed Automatic Transaxle
The all-new Dodge Journey will be available with a new Getrag dual-clutch transaxle. This is the first application of this six-speed automatic transaxle, and it will be available with the 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine. It is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of up to six per cent compared to a conventional four-speed automatic transaxle.

The new transaxle is equipped with two independent lay-shaft style gearsets with separate clutches, using manual transaxle-based components. During shifts, the next gear is anticipated and pre-selected with the current gear still engaged. Then one clutch is opened while the other is closed, allowing shifting without torque interruption. The result is quick acceleration, refined shift quality and improved fuel economy compared to a conventional automatic transaxle.

Safety and Security Features
Safety is at the top of mind for customers, and the Dodge Journey delivers with standard multi-stage front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, three-row side-curtain air bags, four-wheel disc brakes and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM).

Safety equipment includes:

  • Advanced Multi-stage Front Air Bags
  • Low-risk Deployment Front-passenger Air Bag
  • Front Seat-mounted Side Air Bags
  • Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags
  • Structural Driver and Front Passenger Knee Bolsters
  • Available Child Booster Seats (for children under 1.45 metres tall and between 22 and 39 kilograms
  • Advanced Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)
  • Brake Assist
  • Traction Control
  • Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)
  • Trailer Sway Control
  • Available ParkView™ Rear Backup Camera
  • Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPM)
  • Brake-park Interlock
  • Side Guard Door Beams in front and rear doors

Innovative, Clever Features
Many of the innovative and clever features in the all-new Dodge Journey are easily operated and add value. The long list includes:

  • Available full-colour, full-screen GPS navigation system with 17.8-centimetre (7-inch) display provides convenient directions
  • Chill Zone™ cooled beverage storage bin located in the glove box helps keep two 330-millilitre cans cool through the air conditioning system or fresh air inlet
  • YES Essentials® premium cloth seats are stain resistant, odour resistant and anti static for easy cleaning and a long-lasting appearance
  • Available ParkView™ Rear Backup Camera displays the view behind the vehicle in the navigation display when backing up or parking
  • Available aimable LED map/reading lamps provide focussed light without distracting the driver
  • Available removable, rechargeable LED flashlight is stored in the rear cargo area for convenient light when needed
  • Illuminated cup holders glow bluish green for easy night time access
  • Available Rear-seat Entertainment System includes a 20.3-centimetre (8-inch) colour monitor that works with DVD player located in the instrument panel
  • Available UConnect™ provides convenient, hands-free communication in conjunction with the customer’s BlueTooth™ mobile phone
  • Four 12-volt power points for powering small electronics – two in the front, one in the second row and one in the cargo area

Seating and Storage
Dodge Journey features standard five-passenger seating with available 5+2 seating to provide flexible seating and cargo capability. In addition, here is a list of other seating and cargo features found on the all-new Dodge Journey:

  • Available occasional use, 5+2, 50/50-split fold-flat third-row seat with recline feature folds flat for added cargo space when not in use
  • 90-degree rear door openings make it easier to load and install child safety seats and provide access the available 5+2 seating
  • Fold-flat front seat with Flip ’N Stow™ provides storage under the seat cushion and a table-like surface when folded flat for added cargo flexibility. The seat cushion flips forward to reveal a 273 x 222 millimetre bin. The cushion can remain in the forward position to prevent items from sliding onto the floor
  • Two second-row in-floor storage bins located in the floor behind the front-row seats are designed to hold 12 330-millilitre cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. The bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners for added convenience
  • Stadium Tilt ’N Slide™ second-row seats provide easy entry to the third row with one-hand, one-motion operation
  • Tri-fold load floor located behind the second-row seats provides a hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is reversible and configures into a “grocery bag” position. The primary side of the folding panel is carpeted for durability; the secondary side is vinyl for easy clean-up after hauling dirty cargo
  • Rear in-floor storage bin for 5+2 passenger vehicles includes a hidden storage bin behind the third-row seat. A door in the bottom of the bin provides access to the tool and jack storage compartment
  • Child Presentation Feature allows seat to be moved forward so the driver or front passenger can attend to a small child in the second-row seat when the vehicle is stationary
  • Available Child Booster Seats for children 1.45 metres tall and between 22 and 39 kilograms, raise the child into the adult belted zone
  • ActivityCenter in second-row seatback folds forward to provide two cup holders and a bin for storage of small electronics, snacks, crayons or other small items
  • Sunglass bin with Child Observation Mirror features convex glass for a wide field of view that allows the driver and front passenger to conveniently view the rear occupants
  • Sliding centre armrest moves forward 76 millimetres for driver comfort
  • Available heated front seats with leather or premium cloth enhance the comfort of the driver and front passenger
  • Moulded map pockets with bottle holders in all four doors enhance storage and convenience

Bold, Powerful Proportions
Journey is unmistakably Dodge, with powerful, muscular exterior styling cues that evoke the capable look associated with SUVs.

“The Journey combines the bold attitude of Dodge with excellent interior versatility designed to satisfy buyers’ rapidly changing demands,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design. “Journey is the perfect right-sized vehicle for people who want the look of an SUV, but need the functionality and utility of a minivan.”

From the front, the signature Dodge crosshair chrome grille with the Dodge Ram head stamped in the centre hammers home the Dodge brand message that Journey is bold, powerful and capable. Modern-looking quad halogen headlamps provide excellent road lighting. Available fascia-mounted fog lamps strengthen the contemporary look and help boost visibility during bad weather. Body-colour fascias provide a monochromatic look that neatly frame the chrome crosshair grille and headlamps.

Dodge Journey is available with 19-inch wheels and tyres. From the side view, the horizontal aluminium bonnet, long daylight opening and low-gloss black appliqués on the B- and C-pillars give the appearance of a long greenhouse. Sculpted wheel arches emphasize Journey’s sporty, athletic appearance. The beltline on the Journey is more angled in front, but less so toward the rear, mimicking the top of the taillamp shape, which makes it easier for rear-seat passengers to see out the windows — a bonus for smaller passengers. An available high-contrast black roof rack with buffed stainless steel roof rails adds utility and completes the side view.

The rear view of the Dodge Journey elicits as much excitement as the front. The single piece, lightweight liftgate includes an integrated spoiler that delivers improved aerodynamics. An LED Centre High Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL) is mounted in the liftgate header above the glass. Like the integrated spoiler above it, the outer surface of the CHMSL is styled for aerodynamics. Four-piece jewelled red taillamps span the width of both the liftgate and the body and feature unique curves that give the Journey added style and sportiness. The rear glass on the liftgate’s lower edge follows the curvature of the taillamps to improve visibility through the rear window.

Dodge Journey will be available in Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Light Sandstone Metallic Clear Coat, Melbourne Green Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Silver Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

Interior
A key target for the Dodge Journey design team was delivering a practical, flexible interior, with seating and innovative storage features typically only found in a minivan.

Dodge Journey is a two-box exterior design, creating more room for seating people and storing gear compared to a three-box design. Journey offers a choice of two seating configurations to balance buyers’ needs for passenger seating and cargo room. Five-passenger seating is standard on all models, while 5+2-passenger seating is available on SXT and R/T models.

Storing things “under the front seat” takes on an entirely new meaning, thanks to available Flip ’N Stow in-seat storage. The front passenger seat cushion flips forward to reveal a large 273 x 222 millimetre bin under the seat cushion. The bin is large enough to store a purse, umbrella, planner or headphones with the seat down. The seat cushion is hinged, and when flipped forward, provides access to the storage bin.

Dodge Journey rear doors open 90 degrees, making it easier for people to get in and out of the second row and gain access to the available third-row seat.

In the second row, the all-new Dodge Journey features theatre seating, which gives passengers in the second and third row the ability to see outside the vehicle, which is especially helpful for keeping young passengers entertained on long drives. The second row H-point is 40 millimetres higher than the first row. The available third row sits another 17 millimetres higher than the second row and 57 millimetres higher than the first-row seats.

Located in the floor behind the front-row seats are two standard in-floor storage bins that are designed to hold 12 330-millilitre cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. For added convenience, the bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners, so they are easy to clean.

Additional thoughtful features that make Dodge Journey more flexible for families include a Child Presenter Seat on all models that makes it easy for the driver or front passenger to attend to a small child seated in the second row. The child presenter seat works by allowing the 60/40 fold-flat second row seat to travel 60 millimetres forward. With the front passenger seat folded flat, the driver can easily reach to the back to assist a child in the second row. The second row also slides rearward 60 millimetres providing extra leg room for taller passengers.

Dodge Journey is the first vehicle in the mid-size crossover segment to offer available integrated Child Booster Seats. These available seats boost a child seated in the second row 102 millimetres so they are seated in the adult belted zone. This also makes it easier for the child seated in the booster seat to see outside the vehicle. The booster seat is designed for children who are as much as 1.45 metres tall and between 22 and 39 kilograms.

The available third-row seat is easy to operate and get into, thanks to stadium Tilt ’N Slide second-row seats. With the push of a single lever on the side of the seat back, the seat cushions easily fold upward and the seat slides forward. The available 50/50-split-folding third-row seat provides enough room for two passengers on an as needed basis. The seatback reclines six degrees to make the ride even more comfortable. A rear in-floor hidden storage bin located behind the available third-row seat is standard on 5+2-passenger vehicles.

In addition to seating and storage features, the versatile and functional interior of the Dodge Journey features a two-tone colour scheme. A combination of Dark Slate Gray and Light Graystone or Dark Pebble Beige and Light Pebble Beige is available. Chrome accents add a refined detail to the upper centre bin latch, door handle, shifter bezel and door lock knobs and instrument cluster bezel. Journey R/T models add chrome touches on radio and climate control knobs.

The Dodge Journey also features three types of seat upholstery. Cloth is standard on the SE model. YES Essentials stain-resistant, odour-resistant, anti-static seat fabric is available on the SE model and standard on the SXT model. Leather is standard on the R/T model.

Dodge Brand
The first full year of sales for Dodge brand vehicles in all major international markets was 2007. With three vehicles – Avenger, Caliber and Nitro – available in volume, plus the brand icon, Viper, Dodge brand vehicle sales accounted for 25 per cent of sales outside North America for Chrysler LLC. Dodge Caliber outsold all other Chrysler products during its first full year of sales, providing the brand with a solid foundation for additional growth.

In 2008, Dodge brand vehicles offered outside North America are: Avenger, Caliber, Caliber SRT4, Journey, Nitro and Viper SRT10.


Contact Information

Ariel Gavilan
Office: (248) 512-3404
Cell: (248) 495-4645
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