2015 Dodge Journey Crossroad

Let’s look at the new Dodge Journey crossover from two perspectives.

From the outside, it shows a little attitude. The test vehicle I drove was a 2015 Crossroad model that featured 19-inch black aluminum wheels, black headlamp and taillamp bezels with dark-tinted glass, a gloss black grille, and platinum chrome side roof rails and accents on the front and rear fascia. Combined with its Granite Crystal Metallic color, it was almost monochromatic.

The windows are tinted, but only a little, and that keeps the vehicle from looking downright aggressive. Overall, it’s a good, rugged look that distinguishes it from the plethora of sedate crossovers on the market.

Inside, though, it’s a different vehicle.

It changes personality, replacing the tough exterior with utility, comfort and style.

The main feature in the cabin is the Journey’s optional three-row, seven-passenger seating. The third-row bench is for children only because of the low seat and the lack of foot space.

The middle row can seat three, but it would be a tight fit, especially if adults are in the mix. If the middle seat is not needed, its seatback folds down and provides two cupholders.

The second and third rows of seats fold flat, creating 67.6 cubic feet of cargo space. They also recline and feature built-in child booster seats. In the floor ahead of the second row are storage bins. Those are thoughtful additions.

If folding the second and third rows doesn’t provide enough space, the front passenger seat folds forward. The seat cushion flips up to reveal more storage.

The center armrest between the front seats provides storage along with a 12-volt outlet and a USB port.

The heated front seats are black leather with light gray accent stitching and sport mesh inserts. They were very comfortable and supportive.

The Journey comes with Chrysler’s Uconnect integrated entertainment and navigation system, all displayed on a big, clear 8.4-inch touch screen. The system is intuitive to operate, smartphones pair easily with it and the backup camera display is clear.

The Crossroad model I tested fits ahead of the SXT and behind the Limited models. It came with the optional 3.6-liter V-6, which provided decent acceleration and power and should be the choice over the standard four-cylinder.

The Journey recorded its best monthly sales ever in June and July. It was the best-selling vehicle for Dodge in those months, increasing its sales 32 and 16 percent, respectively, over the same months in 2014.

Warranty

Three years or 36,000 miles with a 5-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Pricing

The starting price for the 2015 Dodge Journey Crossroad was $26,595. Options included a security alarm, high-beam daytime running headlamps, universal garage door opener, automatic headlamps, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, remote start, an 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen with Garmin navigation, ParkView rear backup camera, ParkSense rear park assist, second-row seats with child boosters, 3.6-liter V-6 engine, dual bright exhaust tips, engine oil cooler and seven-passenger seating. The sticker price, including destination, was $33,160.

This story was originally published August 28, 2015 at 7:49 PM with the headline "2015 Dodge Journey Crossroad."