2009 Dodge Journey R/T AWD

The Dodge Journey, announced last year at the 2007 Frankfurt auto show, is a seven passenger crossover vehicle, combining the rugged looks of an SUV with the practicality of a mini-van.

The Journey can be had in three trim levels, SE, SXT, and R/T. The latter two trims can also be had with all-wheel-drive. Our review car was a top-of-the-line R/T AWD.

The 3.5-liter V-6 in the Journey R/T isn't technically spectacular, relying on a single overhead cam with no variable valve timing, and it felt just adequate to get the Journey moving.

As a larger crossover, the Journey doesn't look much different than an SUV, but it is built on the Dodge Avenger car platform.

For the Journey, the Avenger platform is stretched.

With the rear seats folded away, the cargo area is cavernous.

The two front rows get individual seats, while the rear folding seat is a bench.

Dodge keeps its steering wheel controls simple, with just a few buttons on the front spokes. However, there are more audio control buttons on the back of the steering wheel.

We weren't impressed with the interior materials or the fit, but you can get a lot of tech options in the Journey.

The six speed automatic offers a manual shift mode. Its sixth gear should help save gas during freeway driving.

The MyGig controls and disc slot are set low on the console. This control panel includes a USB port, auxiliary audio input, and a button for the UConnect hands-free phone system.

The maps on the Journey's navigation system look very good, and include information on traffic and road construction.

Entering destinations can be a little tedious, as you have to use a dial to put in each letter.

You can rip music to the MyGig system's hard drive, or transfer it directly from a USB drive.

The USB port can be used for a thumb drive or to plug in an iPod, which can be controlled from the MyGig system.

The disc player also reads MP3 CDs, giving you many options for digital music.

The Journey uses an Infinity audio system.

Although this file management screen looks promising, it works best for music, as you can't load very many photos into MyGig.

UConnect is a separate option from MyGig. This phone system lets you pair up a Bluetooth-enabled phone and make hands-free calls.

A rear seat entertainment system is also an option with the Dodge Journey.

As a convenience feature, the console includes clips for two soda cans, plus a cooling mechanism.