5 Reasons the 2016 Dodge Journey Beats the Competition

The midsize crossover segment has been growing at a rapid pace for the past few years here in the United States. With its popularity on the rise, midsize crossover manufacturers have had to step up to the plate in order to deliver a quality vehicle that stands apart from the competition. Dodge’s entry into the segment is the 2016 Dodge Journey , and the fact that it is the most affordable midsize crossover on the market is just one of the many ways it is keeping competitors at bay.

The Journey is still a relatively new addition in the American automotive marketplace, having been introduced just a few short years ago in 2008. The appeal that the Journey gives buyers far exceeds its low sticker price, which has the competition scrambling to keep up. With the midsize crossover segment so large, we narrowed it down to the key players in this category. The most notable competitors to the newest Journey model include the Chevy Equinox, Ford Edge, and Hyundai Santa Fe.

A Brief Look at the Competition

Before we delve into the five reasons why we think the 2016 Journey is the best midsize crossover in America, let’s first check out the competition. Prior to going into any competitive arena, it is wise practice to get to know your opponents so you can get a clearer overall picture. Check out each of the three main competitors to the Dodge Journey by exploring below.

• ### 2016 Chevrolet Equinox:

This year’s equinox starts out at $22,600, and manages an impressive 32 miles per gallon on the highway. Restyled for the 2016 model year, the Equinox keeps things fresh in all four of its available trim level models. The Equinox has a maximum seating capacity for five passengers. Under the hood sits a standard 2.4-liter engine paired with a six speed automatic transmission. The total cargo capacity on this crossover is 63.7 cubic feet.

• ### 2016 Ford Edge:

A pricier entry in the midsize crossover segment, the Ford Edge has a starting MSRP of $28,700. The engine on this model is estimated to get 30 miles per gallon on the highway and offers seating for up to five passengers. The 2016 Edge is available in four different trim level offerings, topping the pricing spectrum above $40,000 for the top of the line Sport model. A standard 2.0-liter engine comes on the first three trim levels, along with a six speed automatic and front wheel drive. The Edge can hold up to 73.4 cubic feet of total cargo space.

• ### 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe:

The most expensive midsize crossover on this list, the 2016 Santa Fe features a starting MSRP of $30,400. Drivers can opt for either the base SE, or the high-end Limited model, both of which have seating for up to seven passengers. The base 3.3-liter V6 engine delivers a responsive 290 horsepower rating, along with 25 miles per gallon on the highway. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic Shiftronic transmission, and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Santa Fe offers the largest interior cargo capacity of 80 cubic feet.

As anyone can see, these three midsize crossovers are worthy contenders in the segment. Each one brings a different element to the table – whether that means price, fuel economy, or power. In a segment that is so competitive, it should come as no surprise that there is such a large spectrum of options and standard features available from one brand to the next.

The 2016 Journey: How it Compares

The three crossover models we just looked at are great contenders on the market. Each one offers its own unique take on the segment, and has varying features that are attractive to different buyers.

Keeping these three models in mind, let’s take a look at some of what the 2016 Journey offers. Dodge’s entry into the midsize crossover segment is one of great value, as it truly is the most affordable midsize on the market. Without further adieu, here are some of the top features and components of the 2016 Journey, that we think makes it a real contender in this large and crowded vehicle category.

1. ### Price:

As we have already touched on, the 2016 Dodge Journey is the most affordable midsize crossover available in the United States. Starting at $20,995, the Journey will save drivers over $1,000 right off the bat when compared with the Equinox. To put things into an even clearer perspective, the high-end Journey trim level starts at $31,795, which is less than $2,000 more than the BASE 2016 Santa Fe. Bottom line is – the Journey wins out in this category, hands down.

1. ### Fuel Efficiency:

This number is an important one for all car buyers. Not only does it mean the difference between filling up once a week or every other day, it also reflects savings for the entire span of time you own your vehicle. The 2016 Journey manages to achieve up to 26 miles per gallon on the highway, and go up to 500 miles on a single tank of gas. While the Equinox and the Ford Edge have the Journey in this category, this still-impressive number beats out the 2016 Santa Fe.

1. ### Performance:

The base 2016 Journey comes standard with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission and variable valve timing technology. Also available is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that offers front wheel drive and responsive performance. The Journey’s performance is not the most impressive in the midsize crossover segment, but it certainly isn’t the worst. Keeping on par with its sticker price, the performance specifications for Dodge’s midsize crossover are what we would expect.

1. ### Interior Space:

The 2016 Journey offers seating for up to seven passengers, a number that only the Santa Fe can match. With Dodge’s legendary Flip ‘N Fold seats, the second and third row seamlessly disappears into the floor of the crossover for up to 67 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. While the Journey is slightly behind the Edge, it beats out the Equinox by nearly 5 cubic feet of cargo capacity space. The obvious leader is the Santa Fe, which can be expected with such a steep starting sticker price.

1. ### Intuitive Storage Solutions:

What the Journey lacks in total cargo volume, it makes up for in unique storage solutions. The Dodge’s 2016 midsize crossover is loaded with secret compartments to store all of your miscellaneous and important items. The front passenger seat cushion opens up to reveal a large, hidden storage space for valuable items. In the second row, in-floor storage bins keep muddy shoes contained, and can even be filled with ice for a convenient cooler option on the road. Optional in-floor storage located in the cargo area also offers extra storage space. These intuitive storage solutions are just another way that the Journey stands out in this competitive segment.

Every midsize crossover on the market offers a unique appeal to a variety of drivers. If you want high-end luxury and ultimate power, then the 2016 Journey is an unlikely choice. If you seek incredible value, good fuel economy, and a decent list of standard features, then Dodge’s midsize crossover may be exactly what you are looking for. The 2016 Journey offers more seating than the competition, a better designed cargo system, good overall performance specifications, and a price that simply cannot be beat.

The Dodge Journey may be the exact vehicle you have been looking for. If the five areas highlighted above appeal to you, be sure to come by Miami Lakes Auto Mall Dodge to take the 2016 model for a test drive. When you are here, you will be able to experience first hand the rest of the amazing features that make the Journey a true stand out in the segment. We hope to see you soon.

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