2012 & 2011 Dodge SUV Reviews & Ratings

American auto brand Dodge, a part of the Chrysler Group, has been producing SUVs since the mid-1970s, though if you count its 1954 Town Wagon as a step towards the SUV-direction, the time-frame is debatable. If one does include the Power Wagon, it would be the first among the Dodge Nitro, Doge Trailduster, Dodge Ramcharger, and Dodge Durango mid-size and full-size SUV models. Today, the Dodge Journey is also among this iconic line-up, though the second-edition Dodge Durangos are probably the most popular to have showcased the Dodge name. For the 2012 model year, Dodge is offering two SUV models: the Dodge Durango (which took a brief break in 2010 and resurfaced in 2011), and the fresh-faced Dodge Journey.

The Dodge Durango is the most recognizable SUV of the Dodge brand, and it's been featured in several blockbuster films and popular television shows to reinforce that fact. For the 2012 year, the Durango picks up some small improvements, including a 6-speed automatic transmission for its V8 engine models, as well as new trim levels and 2nd-row captain's chairs. For the 2011 year, the Durango got a facelift and many improved features, such as a more comfortable interior, a more refined engine, and better handling and ride quality. In fact, the full-size SUV is now a distinct threat to its rivals, such as the Ford Flex, the Chevy Traverse, the Ford Explorer, and the Mazda CX-9. The Durango rises a step above its competitors with attributes like tons of features, sharp styling, and a plethora of recreational abilities.

The Dodge Durango is available in four gorgeous trims for the 2012 year: the SXT trim (starting at $28,995), the Crew trim (starting at $33,695), the R/T trim (starting at $35,795), and the luxurious Citadel trim (starting at $40,9995). The standard engine for all of these vehicles (excluding the R/T) is a 3.6-liter V6 engine, which produces 290 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.

The 2012 Dodge Journey is essentially unchanged from the 2011 version, with the exception of its trim structure and labels. The Journey is a mid-size crossover vehicle, and it competes with other vehicles of its type, including the Chevrolet Equinox, the Toyota RAV4, and the Honda CR-V. It's respected for its strong engine, its graciously-appointed and roomy interior, and its family-friendly attributes. It achieves 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway and comes in four trim levels for the 2012 year, including: the American Value Package (starting at only $18,995), the SXT trim (starting at $24,495), the Crew trim (starting at $28,495), and the sporty R/T trim (starting at $29,995). The Journey crossover SUV is available in five-seater or seven-seater variations and comes with impressive standard features, including heated mirrors, keyless entry/ignition, a climate control system, an adjustable driver's seat, a 6-speaker audio system with a touch-screen user interface, an auxiliary audio jack, iPod/USB integration, a CD player, adjustable second-row seats, and integrated 2nd-row booster seats. Some optional features include a navigation system (available on all models except the SE).