What To Know
- The Dodge Journey with the four-cylinder engine achieves 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the V6 engine gets 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Toyota Highlander and Dodge Journey offer a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
- The Highlander is the better choice for buyers who prioritize space, power, and fuel efficiency, while the Journey is a more affordable option with a smaller footprint and a more rounded design.
In the realm of family-friendly SUVs, the Toyota Highlander and Dodge Journey stand out as two popular contenders. Both vehicles offer spacious cabins, versatile seating configurations, and a suite of features designed to enhance the driving experience. However, discerning buyers may seek a deeper understanding of their respective strengths and weaknesses before making an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the key differences between the Toyota Highlander and Dodge Journey, empowering you to choose the SUV that best aligns with your family’s needs and preferences.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The Toyota Highlander exudes a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic, with a bold front grille and angular headlights. Its muscular lines and sculpted body convey a sense of ruggedness and capability. The Dodge Journey, on the other hand, adopts a more rounded and streamlined design, featuring a flowing roofline and sweeping waistline. Both SUVs measure approximately 193 inches in length, providing ample space for passengers and cargo.
Interior Space and Comfort
Step inside the Toyota Highlander and you’ll be greeted by a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The front seats offer excellent support and visibility, while the second row provides ample legroom and headroom. The third row, while not as spacious as the first two, can comfortably accommodate children or smaller adults. The Dodge Journey offers a similar level of interior space, with comfortable front seats and a roomy second row. However, the third row is noticeably smaller and less accessible than the Highlander’s.
Powertrain and Performance
The Toyota Highlander comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Dodge Journey offers a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine provides better acceleration and towing capability, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander has the edge over the Dodge Journey. The Highlander’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 engine. The Dodge Journey with the four-cylinder engine achieves 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the V6 engine gets 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the Toyota Highlander and Dodge Journey offer a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Standard safety features on the Highlander include lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Journey also comes equipped with lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additionally, the Journey offers optional features such as rear cross-traffic alert and lane keep assist.
Technology and Connectivity
The Toyota Highlander and Dodge Journey are well-equipped with technology and connectivity features. The Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Journey also has an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
Price and Value
The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,850 for the base L trim level. The Dodge Journey, on the other hand, starts at a lower price of $29,995 for the base SE trim level. However, when comparing similarly equipped models, the Toyota Highlander offers a better value proposition, with a more spacious interior, more powerful engine, and better fuel efficiency.
Final Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?
The Toyota Highlander and Dodge Journey are both capable family SUVs, but they offer different strengths and weaknesses. The Highlander is the better choice for buyers who prioritize space, power, and fuel efficiency, while the Journey is a more affordable option with a smaller footprint and a more rounded design. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which SUV has a more spacious third row?
The Toyota Highlander has a more spacious third row than the Dodge Journey.
2. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
The Toyota Highlander has a more powerful engine than the Dodge Journey, with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 295 horsepower.
3. Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
The Toyota Highlander has better fuel efficiency than the Dodge Journey, with EPA-estimated ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 engine.
4. Which SUV has more safety features?
The Toyota Highlander and Dodge Journey offer a similar level of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
5. Which SUV has a lower starting price?
The Dodge Journey has a lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander, with a base price of $29,995.