The 2018 Dodge Journey comes with 2 engine options, the base engine is a tiny 2.4L Inline-4 engine that produces 173 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque, however, the unimpressive part is that it comes mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. These numbers speak for themselves as this engine performs rather poorly for a vehicle of this size. The acceleration is outright lethargic and the limited gearing ratio limits the engine from performing better as well.
The optional V-6 engine should be the choice while buying this SUV if you want it to be properly equipped. The 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque output on this engine coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission is a blessing and results in a desirable performance. The acceleration of this mill is much better and it doesn’t feel stressed at highway speeds even under a full load.
Models
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2018 Dodge Journey
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2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
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2018 Mitsubishi Outlander
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2018 Kia Sorento
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MSRP
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$22,995
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$24,600
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$23,950
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$25,900
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Engine
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2.4L, Naturally Aspirated, Inline-4
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2.0L, Intercooled Turbo, Inline-4
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2.4L, Naturally Aspirated, Inline-4
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2.4L, Naturally Aspirated, Inline-4
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Drivetrain
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FWD
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FWD
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FWD
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FWD
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Transmission
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4-speed automatic VLP
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8-speed automatic
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CVT
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6-speed automatic
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Power (hp @ rpm)
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173 @ 6,000
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184 @ 4,400
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166 @ 6,000
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185 @ 6,000
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Torque (lb-ft @ rpm)
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166 @ 4,000
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221 @ 1,600
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162 @ 4,200
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178 @ 4,000
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0-60 MPH (seconds)
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11.1
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8.2
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10.0
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9.9
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Quarter-Mile (seconds)
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18.0
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16.3
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15.0
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17.2
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Top-Speed (MPH)
|
117
|
137
|
115
|
116
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The Volkswagen Tiguan is the only one to come with a 2.0L turbocharged engine and offers an impressive torque output of 221lb.-ft. The Mitsubishi Outlander comes with the least powerful engine among the group yet its acceleration times aren’t much behind the competition. Both the Kia Sorento and Volkswagen Tiguan come with properly equipped engines but the Tiguan with its turbo setup gets better acceleration than the rivals here. Also, the Tiguan has the highest top speed here as well. It is also the quickest option, taking 8.2 seconds to the 60mph mark, while the Dodge Journey takes 11.1 seconds, making it feel sluggish in comparison.
How well does the 2018 Dodge Journey handle?
The Dodge Journey handles like a boat which is slow and tricky to maneuver within the urban limits. The steering is easy to turn but it feels weird on this SUV as it doesn’t provide any feedback at all. Driving the SUV on highways is tedious if you have the base engine but the optional V6 engine handles it with ease but always keep in mind that the Journey is a big, tall SUV and a quick direction input might scare you for a second as it wobbles while changing the lanes.
The suspension setup on this SUV is tuned for maximum comfort and it soaks everything that goes under it and thanks to the 17-inch wheels no shock or jerk penetrates the cabin. If you have driven older SUVs then you won’t have any issues recognizing the limitations of the Dodge Journey. This SUV is meant for a comfortable and relaxed driving experience and it gets an ‘A’ in that.
2018 Dodge Journey Braking Performance
The Dodge Journey performs on an average level at the most when it comes to braking performance and the stopping distance is more or less similar to the rivals. The SUV takes 124 feet to halt from 60 MPH speeds. Brakes on this SUV are one of its positive features, actuating the pedal is easy and it feels quite light. In the urban areas, these brakes are great to have as they don’t require much force to engage but in panic braking situations these brakes get squishy and the SUV doesn’t stay straight, otherwise, the brakes remain usable as ever.
Models
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2018 Dodge Journey
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2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
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2018 Mitsubishi Outlander
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2018 Kia Sorento
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Brake Rotors: Front (inches)
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13
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13.4
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11.6
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12.6
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Brake Rotors: Rear (inches)
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12.9
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11.8
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11.9
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12.0
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Curb Weight (lbs)
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3818
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3777
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3351
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3704
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60-0 (feet)
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124
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124
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121
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121
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The Mitsubishi Outlander is the best performer in the braking performance among the rivals here coming to a halt at 121ft. The lower curb weight of the SUV makes for a shorter stopping distance. On the downside, the brake pedal on the Outlander has a spongy feel at all times. The Kia Sorento has bigger brake rotors as compared to the Outlander yet it performs similarly to the latter while its performance is better than the Journey.