When you’re thinking about a family SUV, the Dodge Journey and Honda CR-V often pop up. Both have their loyal fans, you know? Each vehicle offers unique features, that’s for sure. But how do they truly stack up? It’s a real question many folks ask. We’re going to look closely at how reliable they actually are. Then we’ll check out their interior space. Finally, we will see how Dodge SUVs measure up in terms of value. Let’s dive deep into the real facts. We’ll use numbers to help your choice. Honestly, making a big purchase like this needs all the information you can get.
Reliability: Dodge Journey vs. Honda CR-V
Reliability really matters when buying any car. It tells you how well a vehicle lasts. It also gives you a hint about future maintenance. J.D. Power’s [2022 Vehicle Dependability Study](https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2022-us-vehicle-dependability-study) states Honda is very reliable. They often rank higher than the industry average. That’s a strong track record. Dodge, however, has faced some criticism. This is especially true for the Journey model. It’s troubling to see consistent feedback.
The Dodge Journey has gotten very mixed reviews. Consumer Reports gave it an average 3 out of 5 for reliability. People often mention issues with its transmission. Electrical system problems also come up. This can lead to unexpected repair bills. A survey from [CarComplaints.com](https://www.carcomplaints.com/Dodge/Journey/) showed concerns. For instance, the 2013 Dodge Journey had many complaints. Brakes and transmission were big red flags. This really worries potential buyers. Imagine saving up for a car, only to face these issues quickly.
On the other hand, the Honda CR-V is known for being reliable. Consumer Reports gives it a great 4.5 out of 5. It consistently ranks as a top compact SUV. Honda’s careful engineering helps build this trust. Their engines are known to last for ages. Many go over 200,000 miles. That’s a huge plus for busy families. It’s peace of mind, really.
Let’s think about the hard numbers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA data](https://www.nhtsa.gov/) shows something important. The Honda CR-V has fewer recalls. It also has fewer safety issues than the Dodge Journey. For instance, the CR-V had only five recalls in 2022. The Journey, though, had twelve recalls. This trend shows Honda performs better. It’s a consistent pattern over many years. This data offers a clear picture.
Interior Space: A Closer Look
Family vehicles need lots of interior room. This is super important, right? Passengers need space to stretch out. Luggage and other gear also need to fit comfortably. So, how do these two SUVs measure up? It’s a crucial question for parents.
The Dodge Journey gives you a lot of room. It’s impressive for a mid-size SUV. Up to seven people can sit inside. This makes it a popular pick for bigger families. The Journey has a big passenger volume. It offers 139.3 cubic feet of space. When you fold the second-row seats, you get 67.6 cubic feet. That’s quite a generous cargo area. You can fit a lot of stuff in there.
But here’s the thing. While the Journey has more space, its third row is quite tight. Adults often find it very cramped. It’s really better suited for children. Or perhaps smaller passengers on short trips. Many owners have shared this feedback. They say the third row isn’t comfy for long drives. That could be a downside for some families. Think about those long holiday trips!
Now, let’s compare that to the Honda CR-V. The CR-V also has a roomy inside. But it only seats up to five people. It offers 105.9 cubic feet for passengers. This is less than the Journey’s capacity. However, the CR-V truly shines in cargo space. When the back seats are down, it gives you 75.8 cubic feet. That makes it one of the best in its group. It really makes a difference.
One great thing about the CR-V is its simple use. The rear seats fold down completely flat. This makes loading large items much easier. Plus, the CR-V has many storage spots. You can find them all over the cabin. This boosts its practical use for daily life. So, if you need more passenger seats, the Journey might win. But if cargo and simple use are key, the CR-V definitely stands out.
Value Comparison: Dodge SUVs in the Market
Let’s talk about how much you get for your money. Vehicle value isn’t just the first price tag. It’s also about what it costs over time. Dodge SUVs, like the Journey, often have low prices. This can be very attractive. It’s easy on the wallet upfront.
The Dodge Journey starts at a lower cost. It’s less than the Honda CR-V. In 2023, the Journey’s MSRP was about $28,000. The CR-V started at around $30,000. This price difference helps many families on a budget. But a lower initial cost doesn’t always mean long-term savings. That’s where things get tricky.
Kelley Blue Book data shows a clear trend. The Honda CR-V holds its value better. Much better than the Dodge Journey. After five years, a CR-V keeps about 50% of its value. The Journey, sad to say, only keeps around 35%. This means the Journey might be cheaper upfront. But it might not be the smartest long-term investment. That’s something to really consider.
Let’s consider insurance costs too. The CR-V usually has lower premiums. This is due to its strong safety ratings. Its reliability also helps. The CR-V averages around $1,200 each year for insurance. The Journey, however, is about $1,450 annually. These differences can add up. They definitely impact your overall spending plan. Every little bit counts.
Maintenance costs are another factor. RepairPal shows some interesting numbers. The average yearly cost for a Honda CR-V is about $407. The Dodge Journey averages around $500. This difference goes back to reliability. The Honda needs fewer repairs. It also needs less frequent service visits. That’s a big deal for busy people.
Expert Opinions and Consumer Reviews
I believe that looking at expert opinions helps so much. Consumer reviews also give us a real picture. We learn how these cars perform every day. Automotive experts often weigh in on these models. They share helpful insights. It’s good to hear their pros and cons. They offer valuable perspective.
Experts from U.S. News & World Report praise the Honda CR-V. They love its comfortable ride. Its spacious interior gets high marks. Excellent fuel economy is also mentioned. They note the CR-V offers a smooth drive. Good handling makes it a family favorite. The hybrid CR-V version is getting attention too. It boasts amazing fuel economy. Up to 40 miles per gallon in the city. And 35 on the highway. Not bad at all! That’s impressive for an SUV.
In contrast, reviews for the Dodge Journey often highlight its price. Its family-friendly features get a mention. However, many experts also point out its old design. It lacks advanced safety features. Compared to newer cars, it falls short. The Journey’s infotainment system feels outdated. This is a real problem. Tech-savvy families might find this a drawback. They want modern features, naturally.
Consumer reviews tell a similar story. Many Honda CR-V owners are very happy. Especially with its reliability. They also love its resale value. One owner said, “After five years, I still love my CR-V. It’s spacious, reliable, and I feel safe driving my family around.” That’s high praise, wouldn’t you agree? Another noted its comfortable seats.
On the other hand, Dodge Journey owners appreciate the low price. But they worry about third-row comfort. One review shared, “It’s a good car for the price, but the third row is tight for adults.” It seems to be a common concern. So, buyers really need to test that third row.
Historical Context: Evolution of Both Models
To be honest, knowing the history of these cars helps. It explains why they stand where they do today. The Honda CR-V came out in 1995. It quickly set a standard for compact SUVs. It was designed for practical use. Reliability and good fuel economy were key. These traits helped it stay popular. For almost thirty years, it has been a top pick. That’s quite a legacy.
Honda has updated the CR-V consistently. Over the years, they improved safety. Technology offerings also got better. The 2023 model has Honda Sensing. This is a suite of safety features. Driver-assist technologies are also included. This commitment to improvement is clear. It strengthens its spot as a top family choice. They’ve really focused on evolving.
Conversely, the Dodge Journey launched in 2008. It was a flexible and affordable option. At first, people praised its roomy interior. It offered great value for the money. But in recent years, it fell behind. It just didn’t keep up with its rivals. The Journey stayed mostly the same. This made it feel old. Newer models, like the CR-V, kept improving.
In 2020, Dodge made an announcement. The Journey would be stopped. No major updates were planned after that year. This choice shows how buyer preferences changed. People want fuel-efficient cars. They also want advanced technology. The CR-V really excels in these areas. It really comes down to innovation, doesn’t it?
Future Trends and Predictions
Looking ahead, we need to consider SUV market trends. Demand for fuel-efficient cars is growing fast. Electric vehicles are also gaining ground. Automakers are now focusing more on hybrids. Electric options are becoming critical. They meet buyer demand and environmental rules. This is a big shift, truly.
The Honda CR-V already has a hybrid option. It was a smart move. More buyers want fuel-efficient choices. The CR-V’s hybrid might become even more popular. Experts predict big changes. By 2025, hybrids and electric SUVs could be everywhere. Honda is in a good spot to gain from this. They seem ready for the future.
Dodge, however, has shifted its focus. They are making performance-oriented cars. With electric vehicles rising, their SUV plans are unclear. How will the Dodge brand adapt? If they keep this path, they might need to rethink. Family-friendly SUVs could be vital. They need to stay competitive. It’s a fast-changing market. Consumers want more options now.
FAQs: Common Questions About Dodge Journey and Honda CR-V
What is the fuel economy of the Honda CR-V?
The 2023 Honda CR-V gets good gas mileage. The standard gas model gets 28 mpg city. It offers 34 mpg on the highway. The hybrid version is even better. It gets around 40 mpg city. You can expect about 35 mpg highway. These numbers are quite strong.
Is the Dodge Journey suitable for large families?
Yes, the Dodge Journey seats seven people. This makes it a good fit for bigger families. But, the third row works best for kids. Smaller adults might find it cramped. Always check the space yourself.
How does the resale value compare between the two models?
The Honda CR-V typically holds its value better. Much better than the Dodge Journey. After five years, the CR-V keeps about half its value. The Journey holds onto only about 35%. This is a significant difference.
What are the maintenance costs for each model?
The average annual maintenance for a Honda CR-V is about $407. The Dodge Journey costs around $500 per year. These are average figures.
Are there any new updates for the Dodge Journey?
No, the Dodge Journey was stopped. They ended production after the 2020 model year. There are no plans for new updates. It’s a closed chapter.
Does the Honda CR-V come with advanced safety features?
Yes, the latest Honda CR-V models include Honda Sensing. This suite offers many safety aids. Things like adaptive cruise control are included. Lane-keeping assist is also there. This boosts driver confidence.
Which SUV has a smoother ride?
Many experts say the Honda CR-V offers a smoother ride. Its suspension handles bumps well. The Journey can feel a bit rougher. Test drives often reveal this difference.
Is the infotainment system better in the CR-V or Journey?
The Honda CR-V’s infotainment system is more modern. It offers more features like Apple CarPlay. The Journey’s system feels older. It lacks newer technology. This matters for many buyers.
Can the CR-V tow anything?
Yes, the Honda CR-V can tow small loads. It has a towing capacity of about 1,500 pounds. The Journey can tow more. Its capacity is around 1,000 to 2,500 pounds. So, the Journey is stronger there.
Which vehicle is better for long road trips?
The Honda CR-V is generally better for long trips. It offers more comfort. Its better fuel economy helps too. The Journey’s third row can be uncomfortable. Plus, the CR-V’s quiet cabin helps.
What kind of warranty do these vehicles offer?
Both Honda and Dodge offer standard warranties. This usually includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. There’s also a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Always check the specific model year. Policies can vary.
Which SUV is better for urban driving?
The Honda CR-V is often better for city driving. It’s more agile. Its compact size helps with parking. The Journey feels a bit larger. This makes the CR-V easier to maneuver.
How do service intervals compare?
Honda CR-Vs typically have longer service intervals. This is due to their solid reliability. The Journey might need more frequent checks. This can impact overall ownership costs.
What are common interior features in both?
Both offer basic features like air conditioning. The CR-V has more modern tech. It also has better material quality. The Journey focuses on practicality. Its interior is more basic.
Are there any off-road capabilities?
Neither SUV is built for serious off-roading. Both offer all-wheel drive options. This helps with bad weather. They are more for paved roads.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
When you choose between these two SUVs, both have good points. They also have weak spots. I am happy to say that for families wanting reliability, the Honda CR-V truly shines. It has modern technology. Its resale value is strong. The CR-V offers plenty of space. It has high safety ratings. Its fuel efficiency makes it a top choice. This is clear in the compact SUV market.
However, if your budget is tighter, the Dodge Journey might fit. It offers room for seven people. But keep in mind its older design. Also, its reliability concerns are real. Ultimately, it’s about what truly works for your family. What fits your life best? I am excited to see how both brands grow. Consumer preferences keep changing. We want more sustainable cars. We also want advanced technology. Imagine a future where family SUVs are not just spacious. Imagine them being reliable. But also eco-friendly. And packed with amazing new innovations. The choice is yours, of course. I hope this detailed comparison helps you decide.
