Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Followup: Mystery Dodge Journey SRT R/T might be the real deal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/followup-mystery-dodge-journey-srt-r-t-might-be-the-real-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/followup-mystery-dodge-journey-srt-r-t-might-be-the-real-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/followup-mystery-dodge-journey-srt-r-t-might-be-the-real-deal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

We first informed you yesterday about an interesting looking Dodge Journey SRT R/T prototype that AB reader Nick Leonard stumbled upon in Saginaw, MI. With its manufacturer lincense plates, unique wheels, quad exhaust tips, road-hugging stance and a well-integrated new front fascia, we figured might be some kind of HiPo Mopar project that the company has kept close to its vest. We didn't know anything else about it other than the fact that we wanted to know more.

Well, today we have word of a secondhand account of the beast that would add fuel to the fire. Apparently, if a new LS1Tech thread is to be believed, this Journey is pretty darned quick. Forum member Outlaw55 tells the story:
Just got smoked by a white Dodge SUV thing! I was just out cruising back to work after grabbing a bite to eat and I got pumbled by some newer 4-door Dodge wagon/SUV looking thing. My 02 SS has been 12.90's with Drag Radials and now it has Blizzacs on the back but everything else was the same.

It was behind me and then beside at a stop light. I did not intend to race the guy but my lane ended about 10 yards ahead so I punched it when the light went green, his fender was at my door m so I banged second and went WOT and he friggin passed me. I merged in behind him and then my turn came up and I got off that road.

WTF. It wasn't a Cherokee SRT8 and it certainly wasn't V8 because it didn't sound like it. It had 5 star rims and quad exhausts..thing was white ?
Granted, this was on Michigan's cold winter streets and the Chevrolet Camaro in question was wearing Blizzaks, but either way, it would appear that this all-wheel drive Journey is packing some serious heat. Outlaw says he didn't think it was a V8, and it would be hard to believe a Hemi could be crammed into the Journey's engine bay, so if we had to guess, it might have a breathed-on SRT-4 powerplant in there. With the Caliber SRT-4 turbo mill underhood, it could be producing as much as 285 horsepower in stock configuration, possibly enough to humble the Camaro under very poor traction conditions. But who knows, perhaps it was secreting some extra boost? Thanks for the tip, Tracy!


Gallery: Reader Spy: SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T


[Source: LS1Tech]

Followup: Mystery Dodge Journey SRT R/T might be the real deal originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dodge JourneyDodge Journey RTDodge Journey SRTDodge Journey SRT RTDodgeJourneyDodgeJourneyRtDodgeJourneySrtDodgeJourneySrtRtjourneyJourney RTJourney SRTJourney SRT RTJourneyRtJourneySrtJourneySrtRtspy photosspy picsSpyPhotosSpyPicsSRTSRT-4SRT-6SRT4SRT6Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: SRT-fettled Dodge Journey R/T spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/reader-spy-srt-fettled-dodge-journey-r-t-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/reader-spy-srt-fettled-dodge-journey-r-t-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/reader-spy-srt-fettled-dodge-journey-r-t-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've always been intrigued by the notion of a higher performance people carrier, from back before Car and Driver magazine's Ford Windstar-based SHOStar to various shadetree high-strung turbocharged Chrysler minivans and outright lunacy like Renault's Espace-bodied F1 car.

Of course, that isn't what you're looking at here: it's what appears to be an SRT-tweaked Dodge Journey R/T, a vehicle that we want to like for its useful size and packaging, but can't because of its indifferent drivetrains and tragic interior materials and ergonomics.

Now, normally we wouldn't get too excited about something like this, in part because private owners often add badges from other vehicles in order to make them seem more impressive (we just saw an i-VTEC Chevrolet Beretta the other day), but these spy shots sent in from reader Nick Leonard appear to be the real deal - not only does the Journey in question boast a well-integrated new front fascia, but also unique wheels, a lowered stance and a quad-outlet rear exhaust surrounded by a different valance. The clincher? Michigan manufacturer licence plates.

Nick says notes that he came upon the car in the parking lot of a Best Buy in Saginaw, Michigan, and he only noted a laptop bag and a jacket in the passenger seat - no sign of any further testing equipment or interesting things on the dashboard. He further instructs that there was an AWD badge on the car (not pictured).

Now, it isn't at all clear that this is a production-intent vehicle, especially considering that R/T and SRT are usually mutually-exclusive designations in the House of Pentastar. This vehicle might be something that bored engineers cooked up for their own entertainment, for a SEMA reveal, or perhaps for a customer clinic - but who knows? It could be something, right? If so, let's hope there's some genuine chutzpah under the sheetmetal, otherwise we're looking at the decline and dilution of the SRT-branded vehicles as we know it.

Check out our gallery of images below... and thanks for the shots, Nick!


Gallery: Reader Spy: SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T

Reader Spy: SRT-fettled Dodge Journey R/T spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Dodge2010 Dodge Journey2010Dodge2010DodgeJourneyDodgeDodge JourneyDodge Journey RTDodge SRTDodgeJourneyDodgeJourneyRtDodgeSrtjourneyJourney RTJourneyRtMPVperformance minivanperformance MPVPerformanceMinivanPerformanceMpvRTspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsSRTMon, 14 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda3, Dodge Journey net IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/mazda3-dodge-journey-net-iihs-top-safety-pick-ratings/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/mazda3-dodge-journey-net-iihs-top-safety-pick-ratings/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/mazda3-dodge-journey-net-iihs-top-safety-pick-ratings/#commentsFiled under:



The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named its latest three Top Safety Pick award winners. The models include the 2010 Dodge Journey, 2010 Lincoln MKT, and Mazda's 2010 Mazda3. All three are equipped with standard side airbags. Stability control is standard on the Dodge and Lincoln, but optional on the Mazda.

Unlike the 35 mph head-on barrier crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and its resulting 1- to 5-star ratings, the IIHS frontal test runs the driver's side of a vehicle into a deformable barrier at 40 mph and then assigns one of four ratings (Good, Acceptable, Marginal or Poor) based on occupant injury, vehicle structure integrity, and the movement of the crash dummy within the cabin. In order to earn a Top Safety Pick award, the vehicles must earn the highest ("Good") rating in the agency's frontal, side, and rear impact testing... and be equipped with electronic stability control. The IIHS tests vehicles and announces its Top Safety Picks throughout the year.

[Source: IIHS]


Mazda3, Dodge Journey net IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20105-starCrash TestCrashTestDodge JourneyDodgeJourneyfalsefrontal impactFrontalImpactIIHSLincoln MKTLincolnMktMazdaMazda3NHTSAOffsettop safety pickTopSafetyPickSat, 12 Sep 2009 13:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler to resume leasing vehicles soon?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-to-resume-leasing-vehicles-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-to-resume-leasing-vehicles-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-to-resume-leasing-vehicles-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 Dodge Ram - Click above for high-res image gallery

In late July 2008, Chrysler announced that it would stop leasing vehicles effective August 1. The news helped exasperate the decline of Chrysler group vehicle sales while giving customers fewer options for getting into a new vehicle. After leasing was discontinued, Chrysler's market share dropped from 11.3% to 9.2%. The decline came in part because of Chrysler's very public bankruptcy proceedings and its lackluster product lineup, but there is little doubt that the end of vehicle leasing was also a major contributor to the automaker's precipitous decline.

In an effort to get back on the right track, Automotive News is reporting that dealer sources say leasing could return to the Pentastar as soon as September 18. Chrysler is reportedly waiting until after next Tuesday to make an announcement so it can look over residual value data from the Automotive Lease Guide before making a final decision. Chrysler, which uses GMAC as its finance arm, could follow General Motors' lead and offer leasing only on select vehicles. AN estimates that the Dodge Ram, Journey, Nitro and Grand Caravan, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Chrysler Town & Country could be among the vehicles ready for lease duty.


Gallery: 2009 Dodge Ram


[Source: Automotive News]

Chrysler to resume leasing vehicles soon? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto leaseAutoLeasecar leaseCarLeasechrysler leaseChryslerLeasedodge grand caravandodge journeydodge leasedodge ramDodgeGrandCaravanDodgeJourneyDodgeLeaseDodgeRamgmacjeep grand cherokeejeep leaseJeepGrandCherokeeJeepLeaseleaseleasingpentastarvehicle leasingVehicleLeasingFri, 11 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Fido Approved: America's top ten pet-safe vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/fido-approved-americas-top-ten-pet-safe-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/fido-approved-americas-top-ten-pet-safe-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/fido-approved-americas-top-ten-pet-safe-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: ,

America's Top 10 Pet Safe vehicles - Click above for high-res image gallery

Most people don't pay it any mind, but car accidents and pets don't mix. Just like with humans, wrapping your car around a telephone pole can kill Fido dead. Or really injure the cute little guy. To draw attention to this issue, a website called Bark Buckle Up has teamed up with Edmunds.com to bring us their Top 10 Pet Safe Vehicles.

As Bark Buckle Up points out, "If you have an accident at 35 mph while toting your 60-pound unrestrained dog, your pet is capable of causing an impact of up to 2,700 pounds, slamming into the seat, the windshield, or even a passenger." Ouch. Now of course, if you have an eight pound pooch, that's only a 360 pound impact. We say "only" to illustrate how violent car crashes can be. And just imagine if you had a really big dog, like a Dogo Argentino. Assuming you got a big 160-pound satin-white boar hunter, the impact would be near the four ton range.

What do the following ten vehicles do to address pets flying through the windshield in a crash? Very little, and we don't want to get into the delusion that CUVs are somehow safer than cars. But they all offer nice amenities for pets -- stuff like room to stretch out, tri-zone climate control, fold flat rear seats, side impact airbags and rear back up cameras. As for an accident, you might want to invest in a doggy seat belt. Says Bark Buckle Up founder Christina Selter, "In the event of a sudden stop or accident, the animal can injure other passengers or be thrown through the windshield, then hinder the efforts of rescue workers or even cause another accident by escaping into the street." All ten vehicles are listed out in alphabetical order, so check 'em out in our gallery below.


Gallery: Top 10 Pet Safe Vehicles

Dodge JourneyFord FlexGMC AcadiaHyundai TuscanJeep Liberty

[Source: Bark Buckle Up]


Fido Approved: America's top ten pet-safe vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caninecatscats and dogsCatsAndDogsDodge JourneyDodgeJourneydogsfalseFord FlexFordFlexgmc acadiaGmcAcadiaHyundai TuscanHyundaiTuscanJeep LibertyJeepLibertyKia BorregoKiaBorregoMazda5Mitsubishi OutlanderMitsubishiOutlanderpet safePet Safetypet-safePetsPetSafePetSafetySubaru TribecaSubaruTribecaVolvo XC90VolvoXc90Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler announces "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" promotion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/chrysler-announces-double-ca-h-for-your-old-car-promotion/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/chrysler-announces-double-ca-h-for-your-old-car-promotion/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/chrysler-announces-double-ca-h-for-your-old-car-promotion/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

With Cash for Clunkers slated to go live on July 23, every automaker appears primed to grab a piece of the action. Chrysler is no different, and its new "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" incentive program promises up to match the government's $4,500 "Clunkers" incentive for some vehicles.

Taking $9,000 off the MSRP of the vehicle of your choosing sounds fantastic, but of course, the program isn't that easy. First, obviously, you'd need a vehicle that is eligible for the maximum $4,500 allowance under the government's Cash for Clunkers initiative. Then, you'd need to find a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicle that has the maximum $4,500 in incentives. If you can fit both of those criteria, you will receive $9,000 off MSRP. Chrysler is also offering 0% financing for up to 72 months through GMAC as an alternative to cash incentives.

Chrysler's "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" program runs from July 23-August 31. Hit the jump to view Chrysler's press release. Unfortunately, the release doesn't contain any information pertaining to which vehicles are eligible for the full incentive of $4,500.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler announces "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" promotion

Chrysler announces "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" promotion originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0 financing0Financingauto financingAutoFinancingcar financingCarFinancingcash for clunkersCashForClunkerschryslerdodgedodge journeyDodgeJourneygmacincentivesWed, 22 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler to restart seven North American plants by end of month]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/chrysler-to-restart-seven-north-american-plants-by-end-of-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/chrysler-to-restart-seven-north-american-plants-by-end-of-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/chrysler-to-restart-seven-north-american-plants-by-end-of-month/#commentsFiled under: ,



Hot on the heels of news that the Dodge Viper's Conner Avenue facility would be the first Chrysler plant to fire up after the company's bankruptcy proceedings/Fiat tie-up comes official word that the automaker will resume production at seven plants the week of June 29. In addition, Chrysler will bring the supporting powertrain and stamping plants online that supply the assembly factories listed below with parts.

According to Ed Garsten, Chrysler's manager of electronic media communications, the following assembly plants will resume production as part of a "phased production ramp-up" -
  • Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (Sterling Heights, MI) - Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger
  • Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Warren, MI) - Dodge Ram and Dodge Dakota
  • St. Louis North Assembly Plant (Fenton, MO) - Dodge Ram
  • Toledo Supplier Park (Toledo, OH) - Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • Brampton Assembly Plant (Brampton, Ontario, Canada) - Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Challenger
  • Windsor Assembly Plant (Windsor, Ontario, Canada ) - Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan
  • Toluca Assembly Plant (Toluca, Mexico) - Dodge Journey and Chrysler PT Cruiser
Despite the start-ups, all Chrysler plants will again idle for two weeks in the second half of July as part of a previously scheduled summer break.

Source: Chrysler | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Chrysler to restart seven North American plants by end of month originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BramptonChryCoChryslerChrysler 300Chrysler PT CruiserChrysler SebringChrysler Town and CountryChrysler Town CountryChrysler300ChryslerPtCruiserChryslerSebringChryslerTownAndCountryChryslerTownCountryDodge AvengerDodge CaravanDodge ChallengerDodge ChargerDodge DakotaDodge JourneyDodge RamDodge ViperDodgeAvengerDodgeCaravanDodgeChallengerDodgeChargerDodgeDakotaDodgeJourneyDodgeRamDodgeViperEd GarstenEdGarstenGrand CaravanGrandCaravanJeep WranglerJeepWranglerPT CruiserPtCruiserst. louisSt.Louissterling heightsSterlingHeightsToledoTolucawarren MichiganWarrenMichiganWindsorWranglerWed, 17 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge recalling 72,000 Rams and nearly 17,000 Journeys from 2008-09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/23/dodge-recalling-72-000-rams-and-nearly-17-000-journeys-from-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/23/dodge-recalling-72-000-rams-and-nearly-17-000-journeys-from-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/23/dodge-recalling-72-000-rams-and-nearly-17-000-journeys-from-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The 2008 and 2009 Dodge Ram and 2009 Dodge Journey are being recalled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, each for a different reason. The Ram's windshield wiper motor isn't adequately protected from water, so it could fail completely due to water intrusion. Initial numbers suggest 72,138 Rams are affected. The fix is a stop at the dealership to have some vented wiper motor housings installed.

Some 16,852 Dodge Journeys that do not have the optional 115-volt auxiliary power outlet are also being recalled. The unused electrical connector for that optional component could potentially cause a fire. It's the second fire-related recall for the Journey, and akin to the unused connector issue that affected the Town & Country and Grand Caravan. Dealers will remove the fuse and reroute the wiring. Full info on both recalls is available after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Ram


Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Journey R/T


[Source: NHTSA: Ram, NHTSA: Journey]

Continue reading Dodge recalling 72,000 Rams and nearly 17,000 Journeys from 2008-09

Dodge recalling 72,000 Rams and nearly 17,000 Journeys from 2008-09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 dodge journey2009 dodge ram2009DodgeJourney2009DodgeRamchryslercrossovercuvdodgedodge journeydodge ramDodgeJourneyDodgeRamjourneynhtsapickupramrecallrecallssafetytrucktsbMon, 23 Mar 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2009: Dodge Journey to get OnStar-like features this summer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/ces-2009-dodge-journey-to-get-onstar-like-features-this-summer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/ces-2009-dodge-journey-to-get-onstar-like-features-this-summer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/ces-2009-dodge-journey-to-get-onstar-like-features-this-summer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



On our final night in Vegas, Hughes Telematics invited us over to talk about their work in... well... telematics. Among their demo vehicles was a Dodge Journey outfitted with what is essentially Chrysler's version of OnStar. The Journey will be Chrysler's first product with the service and should be available this summer.

We're not certain what name the new service will get, but it essentially offers the same basic services General Motors' vehciles have. Press a button on the rearview mirror and talk with an assistant at Hughes' own call center to unlock doors and provide directions. The system will also alert rescue agencies of an crash.

Pricing and exact date of availability are both unknown. Hughes reps said that their company is in talks with Chrysler to develop much more elaborate systems with many more features, some of which we were able to check out. We'll be able to post more on that later. But until then you can refresh on what Hughes Telematics told us at CES 2008.

CES 2009: Dodge Journey to get OnStar-like features this summer originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge journeydodge telematicsDodgeJourneyDodgeTelematicshugheshughes telematicsHughesTelematicsonstartelematicsTue, 13 Jan 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Dodge Journey R/T]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-dodge-journey-r-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-dodge-journey-r-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-dodge-journey-r-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2009 Dodge Journey carries the size and shape of a typical crossover, and it has seating for seven and all the amenities you could possibly ask for at $30,000. On paper, the Journey has a plenty of things in its favor, yet we had our doubts.

First off, it looks a lot like the Dodge Caravan, which works against the Journey when considering that many crossover buyers want to avoid the minivan stigma. It's also based on the less than impressive Chrysler Sebring platform, which we have found to be just awful. Then there is Chrysler's corporate 3.5L engine, which is less powerful, refined and efficient than similarly sized engines from its competition. Chrysler's recent track record for vehicles that are less than class competitive also lent support to our notion that the Journey might be a letdown. Regardless, we tried to clear our minds of these things when the Journey arrived for a week-long stay in the Autoblog Garage. Hit the jump to see how Chrysler's new crossover fared.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Journey R/T


All photos Copyright (C)2008 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Dodge Journey R/T

Review: 2009 Dodge Journey R/T originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Dodge Journey2009 dodge journey rt2009DodgeJourney2009DodgeJourneyRtautoblog garageAutoblogGaragecrossoverdodgedodge journeydodge journey rtDodgeJourneyDodgeJourneyRtfeaturedIn the autoblog garage dodge journeyInTheAutoblogGarageDodgeJourneyjourneyreviewvehicle review JourneyVehicleReviewJourneyWed, 27 Aug 2008 12:18:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Dodge Journey recalled for possible engine fires]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/2009-dodge-journey-recalled-for-possible-engine-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/2009-dodge-journey-recalled-for-possible-engine-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/2009-dodge-journey-recalled-for-possible-engine-fires/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2008 Dodge Journey

Chrysler is recalling 6,692 Dodge Journey crossover vehicles equipped with its 3.5L V6 engine due to a wiring harness problem that could potentially result in an engine fire. NHTSA says the issue can occur when the wiring harness becomes dislodged and makes contact with the transaxle mount. Effected vehicles need to be checked out at your local Dodge dealer where the wiring harness will be inspected for damage. If the harness is damaged it will be replaced, and all harnesses will be secured with a tie wrap to ensure the issue doesn't reoccur. Chrysler has known about the issue since mid-March, but no actual fires have been reported as of this time.

The Journey recall is the second NHTSA action on a new vehicle this month, the Volkswagen Tiguan being the other, with each model having less than 7,000 units effected. Though nobody wants to see a time-consuming recall, it's good to see that issues are being discovered well in advance of any freeway carbeques.

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey


[Source: Inside Line]

2009 Dodge Journey recalled for possible engine fires originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.5L V63.5lV6ChryslerDodge JourneyDodgeJourneyNHTSArecallwiring harnessWiringHarnessTue, 17 Jun 2008 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Belgium: Dodge wants you to steam up the windows in the Journey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/31/belgium-dodge-wants-guys-to-steam-up-the-windows-in-the-journey/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/31/belgium-dodge-wants-guys-to-steam-up-the-windows-in-the-journey/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/31/belgium-dodge-wants-guys-to-steam-up-the-windows-in-the-journey/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Baby Made on Board promo materials

When we read the tip from reader Thijs B. telling us that in Belgium, Dodge is planning a Journey launch promo centered around backseat baby-making, we thought it was a big joke. So we started using our Google powers to see what else we could dig up. And guess what? It's legit.

If you go to babymadeonboard.be, you'll be greeted by the screen above, which features a play on those annoying "Baby On Board" window signs that were ubiquitous during the 80s. It's paired with a countdown timer that will zero out on the weekend of June 14, which is when the Dodge Journey officially launches in Belgium. A quick WHOIS lookup on DNS.be reveals that the site's domain name is registered to someone at the Brussels office of Proximity BBDO, a BBDO partner. BBDO is Chrysler's ad agency.

More Googling led us to a Dodge press release posted on a Belgian media portal. The car is being targeted toward men, and its launch slogan roughly translates to "Become a father, stay a man." According to the PR, Dodge suggests that "everyone try out the back seat of the Dodge Journey in a little unorthodox manner." Well, that's one way of getting folks to look past Chrysler's lamentable interiors. People whose "backseat trial" is successful and subsequently produce a newborn child 9 months after the car's launch weekend have a chance to win themselves a new Dodge Journey, and the baby's picture will be posted to the website.

We don't think that Dodge really wants people taking special test drives out of Belgian dealerships for the purpose of steaming up the windows the old fashioned way (we can imagine porters quitting en masse on June 13th if this were the case). This particular assignment can probably be completed at home, too. To help encourage people to take action, however, all Journey floor models will have those "Baby Made on Board" signs in their windows. If you're in Belgium, are planning a family, and are in the market for a new car, you might want to (ahem) get to work on or around June 14. Maybe earlier. After all, a little practice never hurts. Thanks for the tip, Thijs!

Gallery: Dodge Journey - Baby Made On Board


[Source: Dodge Belgium]

Continue reading Belgium: Dodge wants you to steam up the windows in the Journey

Belgium: Dodge wants you to steam up the windows in the Journey originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 May 2008 12:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby made on boardBabyMadeOnBoardbackseat actionbackseat activityBackseatActionBackseatActivitybbdobelgiumdodge journeyDodgeJourneyjourney launchJourneyLaunchSat, 31 May 2008 12:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler kills rebadge of Dodge Journey to work on small car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/chrysler-kills-rebadge-of-dodge-journey-to-work-on-small-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/chrysler-kills-rebadge-of-dodge-journey-to-work-on-small-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/chrysler-kills-rebadge-of-dodge-journey-to-work-on-small-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Dodge Journey

Making a step towards a more fuel-efficient vehicle lineup, and reducing the number of overlapping vehicles between its brands, the plug has been pulled on a Chrysler-branded version of the 2009 Dodge Journey. Chrysler LLC will instead focus the resources on a Nissan-manufactured compact car.

While the automaker currently captures the bulk of its sales from light trucks and SUVs, Chrysler is trying to pare down its lineup significantly to cut costs. So far, they have cut four models. Moving forward, the Jeep Commander SUV is expected to be dropped next year, and the company has already said they were canceling the PT Cruiser Convertible. While the 2009 Dodge lineup gains the aforementioned Journey, Dodge Challenger, and a redesigned Dodge Ram pickup, Chrysler's product lineup for the next twelve months looks particularly bleak with nothing significantly new in the pipeline. Company officials are holding their breath for 2010, when the new Nissan-built compact, new Jeep Grand Cherokee, and redesigned Chrysler 300 sedans arrive.

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey

[Source: Bloomberg]

Chrysler kills rebadge of Dodge Journey to work on small car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 May 2008 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

According to the sprawling press release pasted after the break, Dodge is planning their largest ever digital marketing push to accompany the launch of its new Journey CUV. "The campaign ties consumers to the new Dodge Journey emotionally by helping them realize their dreams, then drives them to action," according to Dodge's Senior manager of Communications, Mark Spencer. While we recognize the Journey as a credible entry into the crowded CUV segment, we don't feel any special emotional attachment to it, nor are we sure that it'll be making people's dreams come true -- unless they were dreaming for a price break on their next vehicle purchase. Still, for those who sit at the I'll-never-own-a-minivan table, the Journey offers a nice option, with lots of clever storage solutions, save the poorly placed sat nav.

Dodge's dreamy Journey strategy is closely related to Chrysler's new "If you can dream it, we can build it" campaign, which will debut on April 14.

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey


[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Dodge's Journey will make all your dreams come true

Dodge's Journey will make all your dreams come true originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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You thought you knew how much a Dodge Journey costs. Well, it's actually a thousand dollars less than that. Why? Because Chrysler is offering that much as an incentive to folks who plunk down the balance on a 2009 Dodge Journey. On the This Is Not Good side, it's the first 2009 model of the year to put money on the hood, and frankly, it just never looks good when the manufacturer offers cash to entice buyers. On the This Is Really Not Bad side, has anyone had a look at the things folks in Journey's market segment are enduring right now? (Hint: rhymes with "portgage misis.") Yeah. So we won't hit Dodge over the head... but we will be watching...

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey


[Source: Kicking Tires]

Dodge launches 2009 Journey with helping hand: $1,000 cash back originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 07:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 models2009Modelschryslercrossoverscuvsdodgedodge journeyDodgeJourneyincentivesrebatesWed, 26 Mar 2008 07:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge Journey starts at $19,985]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/21/dodge-journey-starts-at-19-985/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/21/dodge-journey-starts-at-19-985/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/21/dodge-journey-starts-at-19-985/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the image above for a gallery of the 2009 Dodge Journey.

Dodge's next entrant into the Crossover soirée will come in under $20,000 when sales begin in the first quarter of next year. The base model 2009 Dodge Journey SE will be priced at $19,985 (including the $625 shipping charge), equipped with a 2.4-liter inline four sending power to the front wheels.

The 3.5-liter V6-equipped model with a six-speed automatic is available in SXT or R/T trim and comes in at $22,985 and $26,545 respectively. Both top-end models will be available with all-wheel-drive, with the SXT priced at $25,530 and the R/T coming in at $28,295.

All the pricing and trim details are available after the jump in Dodge's press release.

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey

Continue reading Dodge Journey starts at $19,985

Dodge Journey starts at $19,985 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Dec 2007 15:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

Chrysler fired its biggest salvo yet in the CUV wars by officially unveiling the Dodge Journey in front of a throng of mildly interested in journalists. Truly, if you've seen one CUV, you've seen them all, and the Dodge Journey is all kinds of derivative. Coming from the automaker that brought us the Viper, Charger, Magnum and Challenger Concept in recent years, the Journey's design comes off as eminently safe. Perhaps Dodge is playing to the middle with this one, hoping to boost sales by appealing to the masses. What will sell the Journey are some of its clever interior storage solutions, including two bins in the floor directly behind the front seats, and more storage underneath the front passenger seat cushion. While the Journey could seat seven in a pinch thanks to its optional third row, it's obvious after having seen it in person that those venturing aft must be small and limber. What won't help the Journey is its powertrain lineup, which includes a 2.4L World Engine four-cylinder with unimpressive fuel economy, a 2.7L flex-fuel V6, and a 3.5L V6 that produces a meager 235 HP. The latter mill is mated to a six-speed automatic, but is still noticeably underpowered compared to other 3.5L V6 engines offered by its competitors while not delivering an appreciable gain in fuel economy to make up for it.

Europeans, however, can also choose 2.0L turbo diesel producing 140 HP and 229 ft-lbs. of torque, which is then mated to a trick dual-clutch six-speed automatic. Sigh... the grass sure is greener over here in Frankfurt, at least for Dodge Journey customers.

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey

Continue reading Frankfurt 2007: Dodge Journey drops in Germany

Frankfurt 2007: Dodge Journey drops in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 06:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdodgeDodge JourneyDodgeJourneyfrankfurtJourneyJourney CUVJourneyCuvTue, 11 Sep 2007 06:17:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Dodge Journey: More images released]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/28/2009-dodge-journey-more-images-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/28/2009-dodge-journey-more-images-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/28/2009-dodge-journey-more-images-released/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image to view new high-res pics of the 2009 Dodge Journey

We're still divided on our feelings about the 2009 Dodge Journey, and after reading the comments can tell that many of you are, too. To help us decide one way or the other, Dodge has released some new pics of the CUV, all of which show the vehicle being driven on the open road. Truthfully, these shots were conspicuously absent from the batch we received when the Journey was unveiled a few days ago, as it always helps when judging a design to see it in the environment we expect it to be used.

The design of the 2009 Journey is by far the safest introduced by Dodge in a long time. This is the brand that brought us the Charger, Avenger, Nitro and Caliber, all of which stand out in their segments for better or worse. Perhaps Dodge knows that the CUV market is ripe, and just offering a product in the segment will attract sales. With that in mind, they may have settled on the design that was least offensive to the masses in order to maximize sales.

[Source: Dodge]

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey

2009 Dodge Journey: More images released originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Aug 2007 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

Meet the 2009 Dodge Journey, a new crossover from the crosshairs brand that will debut early next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany. Why the international debut? The 2009 Journey will be an international vehicle, sold both in the U.S. and Canada, as well as markets outside North America. The new Journey is one of those vehicles that wants to look like an SUV, haul stuff like a station wagon and ride like a passenger car.
Known by the code name JC49 for months, the Dodge Journey is actually based on an Avenger chassis with a wheelbase lengthened 4.9 inches. That provides extra room for an optional third-row seat for "occasional use". The Journey also includes some clever features like a large storage bin beneath the front passenger seat cushion, as well as two in-floor bins behind the front seats big enough to carry a 12-pack each and some ice.

Dodge designed the Journey with a traditional crossover look, eschewing the amped up machismo look of many recent Dodge looks. Of course, the monochromatic R/T looks the best, especially wearing 19-inch wheels. The interior of the 2009 Journey is also not traditional Dodge fare. While we can't comment on how the materials feel, it does appear the Journey is sporting new switchgear, and a lot of it. The audio and HVAC controls are a barrage of buttons that could be intimidating to some.

More info after the jump, along with VIDEO, Dodge's full press release and the gallery of high-res pics below.

[Source: Dodge]

Gallery: 2009 Dodge Journey

Continue reading 2009 Dodge Journey crossover will debut in Frankfurt

2009 Dodge Journey crossover will debut in Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Aug 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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