Dodge Adds Crossover Model to Its Lineup

Boston – Dodge has finally unveiled the Journey, a new crossover from the crosshairs brand that will debut early next month at the 2007 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, looks like an SUV, hauls like a station wagon and rides like a passenger car.

“The all-new Dodge Journey gives our customers the entire package,” said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President – International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler. “With its unique combination of purposeful versatility and bold, youthful styling, this new vehicle from Dodge delivers safety, quality and reliability at a great value. Journey also blends innovative technology, entertainment features and useful storage, all wrapped together with an attitude that can only be Dodge.”

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.

“The Journey combines the bold attitude of Dodge with excellent interior versatility designed to satisfy buyers’ rapidly changing demands,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design. “Journey is the perfect right-sized vehicle for people who want the prestige of an SUV, but need the functionality and utility of a minivan.”

Many of Dodge Journey’s innovative and clever features are designed to be easily operated. Journey’s many user-friendly features include:

Technologies
– MyGIG(TM) cutting-edge multimedia audio and entertainment system
– Available ParkView(TM) Rear Backup Camera displays the view behind the
vehicle in the navigation display when backing up or parking
– Available Full-color, GPS Map Navigation System with 7-inch (17.8 cm)
display provides convenient directions and traffic alerts
– Chill Zone(TM) cooled beverage storage bin located in the glove box
helps keep two cooled 12-oz. (330 ml) cans cool through the air
conditioning system or fresh air inlet
– YES Essentials Premium Cloth Seats are stain resistant, odor resistant
and anti static for easy cleaning and a long-lasting appearance
– Available Aimable LED Map/Reading Lamps provide focused light without
distracting the driver
– Available Removable, Rechargeable LED Flashlight is stored in the rear
cargo area for convenient light when needed
– Illuminated Cup Holders glow blue green for easy nighttime access
– Available Rear-seat Entertainment System includes an 8-inch (20.3 cm)
color monitor that works with the radio DVD player. The display
conveniently folds down from the headliner to entertain rear seat
passengers
– Available 115-volt, 150-watt Power Inverter on the rear of the console
powers small household appliances (available in North America)
– Available SIRIUS(TM) Digital Satellite Radio offers a variety of
subscription-based radio programs and music for enhanced listening
enjoyment (available in North America)
– Available UConnect(TM) provides convenient, hands-free communication
with BlueTooth(TM) cellular phones
– Four 12-volt Power Points for powering small electronics. Two are in
the front, one is in the second row and one is in the cargo area
– Available Remote Start starts a secured vehicle with the key fob for
added convenience (available in North America)

Seating and Storage
– Standard Five-passenger Seating with Available 5+2 Seating provides
flexible seating and cargo capability
– Available Occasional Use, 5+2, 50/50-split Third-row Seat with Recline
feature folds flat for added cargo space when not in use
– 90-degree Rear Door Openings make it easier to load and install child
safety seats and provides access the available 5+2 seating
– Fold-flat Front Seat with Flip ‘N Stow provides storage under the seat
cushion and a table-like surface when folded flat for added cargo
flexibility. The seat cushion flips forward to reveal a 10.75 x 8.75-
inch (273 x 222 mm) bin. The cushion can remain in the forward position
to prevent items from sliding onto the floor
– Two Second-row In-floor Storage Bins located in the floor behind the
front row seats are designed to hold 12, 12-oz. (330 ml) cans plus ice
or other items conveniently out of sight. The bins feature latching
lids and removable, washable liners for added convenience
– Stadium Tip ‘N Slide Seat provides easy entry to the third row with
one-hand, one-motion operation
– Tri-fold Load Floor located behind the second-row seats provides a
hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is
reversible and configures into a “grocery bag” position. The primary
side of the folding panel is carpeted for durability
– Rear In-floor Storage Bin for 5+2 Passenger Vehicles includes a hidden
storage bin behind the third-row seat. For added utility, a door in the
bottom of the bin provides access to the tool and jack storage
compartment
– Child Presentation Feature allows the driver to attend to a small child
in the second-row seat when the vehicle is stationary
– Available Child Booster Seats for children 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m)
tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39 kg), raises the child
into the adult belted zone
– ActivityCenter in second row seatback folds forward to provide two cup
holders and a bin for storage of small electronics, snacks, crayons or
other small items
– Sunglass Bin with Child Observation Mirror features convex glass for a
wide field of view that allows the driver and front passenger to
conveniently view the rear occupants
– Sliding Center Arm Rest moves forward 3 inches (76 mm) for driver
comfort
– Available Heated Front Seats with Leather or Premium Cloth enhance the
comfort of the driver and front passenger (segment exclusive in North
America)
– Molded Map Pockets with Bottle Holders in all four doors enhance
storage and convenience

German automaker DaimlerChrysler AG sold an 80.1 percent stake in Chrysler to Cerberus this month.

• Share
• Tweet
• "&title=""">