The Journey was one of the longest-produced models in the last decade or so and it was finally discontinued with the 2020 model year. Since then, the three-row crossover is no longer available in North America but on the other hand, the nameplate remains in use in some other markets. Namely, Dodge came up with the new Journey, which is notably smaller and comes as a rebadged version of an SUV called Trumpchi GS5. This is a Chinese compact crossover, which was introduced in 2018. Dodge’s version, on the other hand, came with the 2022 model year, so it’s no wonder that the 2023 Dodge Journey comes without more important changes.
This is the second production year and, therefore, there are no significant changes. The overall layout is the same and the biggest novelty we expect to see in the next year or so is a further expansion to other markets. Currently, the model is sold in Central America and now we are waiting to see it in South America as well. Some sources even speculate about the U.S. market return, though that doesn’t sound particularly likely in our humble opinion.
2023 Dodge Journey Design
So, the 2023 Dodge Journey represents the second production year of the revived nameplate and, therefore, there are no significant changes. Instead, the overall design is the same, significantly different compared to the old Journey. The new model features compact instead of mid-size dimensions and has just two rows. It is smaller but that doesn’t necessarily mean a bad thing. Moreover, it actually has a lot of good stuff to offer.
Dodge engineers didn’t put much effort into the aesthetical aspect of the vehicle, so the look is largely the same as on the Chinese cousin. Basically, the only things that were modified are the front fascia and the front grille, where you can see a slightly different pattern, along with Dodge’s badge.
On the other hand, the mechanical aspect is pretty much identical, so there is the same chassis and suspension setup. The latter includes an independent multi-link setup, which is one of the reasons for Journey’s good driving experiences, which is at a sweet spot between comfort and athleticism.
Interior
Things aren’t much different on the inside either. The overall design is pretty much the same as in the GS5, with the exception of the steering wheel. The dashboard features the same layout, with nice aesthetics and nice materials. The good build quality is complemented by tech features, whereas base models come with an 8-inch instrument cluster, while higher trim levels feature a completely digital cluster. All models come standard with an 8-inch touchscreen but, unfortunately, the interface is the same as in the Chinese model, and it isn’t as intuitive as the Dodge’s Uconnect system.
As we’ve just mentioned, this is a compact crossover now and unlike the old Journey, it comes with just two rows of seats. Still, both rows are spacious and comfortable, with enough room to accommodate adults in both rows with ease.
2023 Dodge Journey Engines
The 2023 Dodge Journey carried on with a single powertrain option on offer. This is a modern car in every aspect, so the powertrain department is no exception. Instead of large-displacement naturally-aspirated engines, this crossover uses a 1.5-liter turbo-four engine, which puts out quite a decent 169 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque.
The engine comes in paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission from Aisin, which shifts quickly and feels pretty refined. The whole system feels pretty refined, while the overall performance is quite satisfying. There are also selectable drive modes, as well as a start/stop system, which is part of the standard equipment. The start-stop system is part of the standard equipment, while you may also count on selectable drive modes.
2023 Dodge Journey Price
The 2023 Journey is currently offered in Mexico, where it starts at around 555,900 pesos, which is equal to around 27,000 US Dollars.