Dodge has a big Journey

Jan 31 2010 Edward Stephens

IT'S big, it's brash and it's just the job if plenty of space is your main criteria.

The new Dodge Journey has more room inside than your average MPV, so it's ideal for big families.

This huge estate car also boasts plenty of flexibility with seats which, fold, slide and bend in all directions so it can accommodate whatever you want to carry.

And now the latest version of this seven-seater boasts with even more equipment on board for 2010.

The front-wheel drive Journey comes with a manual or Getrag dual-clutch automatic gearbox and a choice of two engines; a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine and a 2.4-litre petrol engine.

The entry-level 2.4-litre petrol SE, is available from £16,990 and offers Tilt 'n Slide flexible seating system, spacious under-floor storage bins and under-seat storage areas and three-zone climate control. This model also comes with 16-inch steel wheels, a tilt and telescopic steering column, tyre pressure monitoring, power-folding and heated door mirrors, electric windows and six-disc CD with MP3 compatible sound system all as standard.

New equipment on SE models this year includes second-row integrated child booster seats, odour and stain repel cloth and cruise control.

The already highly spec SXT is priced from £19,990 and - in addition to the SE specification - features six way power driver seat, lumbar adjustment, fog lamps and 17 inch alloy wheels. The 2010 Journey SXT gets even more kit as standard; second-row integrated child booster seats, roof rails and crossbars, sunscreen glass, leather steering wheel and gear shifter and steering wheel audio controls.

The top-of-the range R/T costs £21,990 and features all the SXT equipment plus leather-trimmed seats and 19 inch alloy wheels. New equipment for 2010 includes uconnect phone with voice recognition, a hands-free communication system using Bluetooth technology, iPod connectivity, roof crossbars and second-row integrated child booster seats.

Anyone wanting a smaller, although similar styled car should look to the Dodge Caliber, available with a 1.8-litre petrol engine from just over £12,000 and a 2.0-litre diesel engine priced from around £14,500. This macho-looking five-seater hatchback/estate car is small by American standards but offers plenty of space for UK motorists and represents good value for money.

Last but not least in the Dodge stable is the Nitro, a mid-sized, four-wheel-drive SUV with a style all its own.

This chunky five seater with its two cargo floors, impressive flexibility and spacious interior is available with either a 3.7-litre V6 petrol or 2.8-litre diesel engine.

Prices start from around £18,200.