European spec Dodge Journey to get dual clutch gearbox with diesel

click above image to view high-res gallery of 2009 Dodge Journey

When Chrysler announced the new Dodge Journey cross-over early last week, we skipped over it hear here on ABG. However a second look at the specs revealed something of interest, at least to non-American drivers. While the home market is limited to the 2.4L four cylinder and 2.7L and 2 3.5L V-6s with automatic transmissions, overseas customers get the option of a 2.0L turbo-diesel engine mated to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The DCT was developed with Getrag, but Americans will probably have to wait until the new transmission plant in Indiana is ready in 2009. The dual clutch box should provide about a six percent improvement in fuel efficiency over a conventional torque converter automatic.

[Source: Chrysler]