Suv showdown: ford flex vs. dodge journey – which offers the best value for your money?
What To Know
- 5-liter V6 offers a balance of power and fuel efficiency, while the EcoBoost V6 provides more power but with a slight decrease in fuel economy.
- However, it offers a wider range of standard features than the Flex, including a power liftgate, a third row of seats, and rear-seat entertainment.
- However, if you’re looking for a more affordable vehicle with a wider range of standard features, the Dodge Journey is a solid choice.
In the realm of family-friendly SUVs, the Ford Flex and Dodge Journey stand as formidable contenders. With their spacious interiors, versatile features, and family-centric amenities, these vehicles aim to provide a comfortable and practical driving experience. But which one reigns supreme? To help you make an informed decision, let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Ford Flex vs. Dodge Journey.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Ford Flex offers a roomier interior than the Dodge Journey. Its boxy design allows for ample headroom, legroom, and cargo space. The second row of seats can be folded flat to create a spacious cargo area, while the third row of seats provides additional seating for up to eight passengers.
In contrast, the Dodge Journey has a more compact interior. While it still offers decent passenger and cargo space, it may feel cramped for larger families. The second row of seats can also be folded flat, but the cargo area is slightly smaller than that of the Flex.
Engine Performance and Fuel Economy
The Ford Flex is available with a range of engine options, including a 3.5-liter V6, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, and a 3.7-liter V6. The 3.5-liter V6 offers a balance of power and fuel efficiency, while the EcoBoost V6 provides more power but with a slight decrease in fuel economy. The 3.7-liter V6 is the most powerful option but has the lowest fuel economy.
The Dodge Journey is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.6-liter V6. The four-cylinder engine delivers decent fuel economy but lacks power, while the V6 provides more power but has lower fuel economy.
Features and Technology
Both the Ford Flex and Dodge Journey offer a range of features and technology to enhance comfort and convenience. The Flex comes standard with a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add features such as a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.
The Journey also comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. However, it offers a wider range of standard features than the Flex, including a power liftgate, a third row of seats, and rear-seat entertainment.
Safety Features
Both the Ford Flex and Dodge Journey have received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both vehicles include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
The Flex offers additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Journey offers similar safety features, but some are only available on higher trim levels.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs
The Ford Flex has a slightly better reliability rating than the Dodge Journey. According to J.D. Power, the Flex has a predicted reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, while the Journey has a rating of 2.5 out of 5. This suggests that the Flex is less likely to experience major problems than the Journey.
Maintenance costs for the Ford Flex and Dodge Journey are comparable. Both vehicles require regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. However, the Flex may require more frequent repairs due to its more complex engine and transmission systems.
Pros and Cons
Ford Flex
Pros:
- Roomier interior
- Powerful engine options
- Excellent safety features
- Good reliability rating
Cons:
- Higher maintenance costs
- Less standard features than the Journey
Dodge Journey
Pros:
- More standard features
- Affordable price point
- Good fuel economy with the four-cylinder engine
Cons:
- Smaller interior
- Less powerful engine options
- Lower reliability rating
Summary: The Verdict
The choice between the Ford Flex and Dodge Journey ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize interior space, power, and safety, the Ford Flex is the better option. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable vehicle with a wider range of standard features, the Dodge Journey is a solid choice.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Dodge Journey with the four-cylinder engine has better fuel economy than the Ford Flex with any of its engine options.
Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The Ford Flex has more cargo space than the Dodge Journey.
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Ford Flex with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 has the most powerful engine option.
Q: Which vehicle has a better reliability rating?
A: The Ford Flex has a slightly better reliability rating than the Dodge Journey.
Q: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The Dodge Journey is more affordable than the Ford Flex.
