The Journey is outdated by many standards of today’s automotive car industry and we’ve been waiting for some changes in the past several years. Everyone expects to see this model either redesigned or discontinued. The second option seems more likely, according to the latest reports. However, the company is still hesitating to announce discontinuation, although we are getting all kinds of reports that suggest a new three-row crossover is about to come in the near future. Many believed that the 2020 model year would be Journey’s last dance, but now it looks that will be 2021 Dodge Journey.
According to the latest reports, we are about to see this model for one more year. Naturally, no bigger changes are expected and the upcoming model should be a typical carryover, with familiar design and features. We expect to see it in a typical time of year, maybe with an even lower price tag.
2021 Dodge Journey Resesign
When it comes to base design characteristics, this crossover is outdated by many standards. First of all, it rides on an old JC platform, which definitely can’t provide a driving experience that is good enough to compete with much younger competitors. The ride is firm, while handling is probably worst in class. Add to this the fact that Journey is among the heaviest models in the class, which definitely has a negative impact on fuel efficiency.
These design issues aren’t the only thing that will bother the 2021 Dodge Journey. We don’t expect to see bigger styling changes either. Therefore, count on a design that hasn’t changed too much for more than a decade. There were some updates during the production cycle, but the overall exterior design is essentially the same as on the model that debuted way back in 2008.
Interior
The same story goes for interior design. The first thing you’ll notice is the dashboard, which looks really outdates. It’s not only about blend look and lack of modern tech features but also about low-rent materials. There is a lot of low-rent materials throughout the cabin, though some areas feature soft-touch surfaces too. The 2021 Dodge Journey definitely won’t come with any bigger improvement, unfortunately.
When it comes to the interior space, the Journey benefits from the fact that wheelbase measures almost 114 inches. The first two rows are quite spacious and comfortable. On the other side, the third row is typically tight for the class. Still, we should mention that the second row slides, which allows easier access to the last row.
When it comes to the cargo area, you can count on 10.6 cubic feet behind the third row, while the overall volume goes around 67 cubic feet. These are subpar ratings for the class.
Features
This is another aspect where the 2021 Dodge Journey will show its age. One of the first things that come to mind is a small 4.3-inch touchscreen in base models, which also come with one USB port and a six-speaker audio system. Still, we have to say that the infotainment system is very intuitive and easy to use. Of course, things are much better at higher trim levels, where you can get things like an 8.4-inch touch screen, a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD player, satellite radio, Bluetooth etc.
When it comes to safety, you definitely won’t get much, no matter the trim level you choose. A rearview camera is standard, while parking sensors are the only optional feature you can get.
2021 Dodge Journey Engines
Two engines are in the offer for this crossover and the 2021 Dodge Journey will continue in the same way. Therefore, count that base versions will come with a familiar 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which is good for 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. Of course, the acceleration is weak, but this version seems like a decent daily rider, especially if we consider that mpg ratings are average for the class. You can count on about 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
The optional V6 seems like a much better choice for those who prefer better driving dynamics. This is a familiar 3.6-liter V6 engine, which in this case delivers around 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy is decent in this model as well, as you can count on about 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Both engines come in pair with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
2021 Dodge Journey Release Date and Price
We expect to see 2021 Dodge Journey sometime in the last quarter of the next year. The current model is characterized by a pretty attractive price and we don’t expect bigger changes in the next year. Therefore, base models should go around 24.000 dollars. On the other side, most expensive versions can go up to 35.500 dollars.
