Road & Travel Honors Dodge Journey for Making the Most of Its Space

Hot Springs, 10/04/2012 / SubmitMyPR /

The task of having seven passengers in tow can often make for an unwieldy or unflattering ride, but Road & Travel magazine found no such problems when recently taking the 2012 Dodge Journey for a spin. Editors concluded that the midsize crossover SUV traveled smoothly and stylishly with its available seven-passenger seating, leading them to name the Journey a Top 10 Pick in their 2012 SUV Buyer's Guide.

Even when riding with a large family, the Dodge Journey offers clever storage solutions for other precious cargo. In particular, Road & Travel noted the optional bin that pops open from the front passenger seat cushion, as well as the standard dual floor bins in the backseat area. Meanwhile, available Tilt 'n Slide second-row seating lets children access the third row with a simple flip of the hand, and parents can also opt for integrated child booster seats.

"If you are a parent that wants versatility and functionality for your family without giving up on style and drivability, there is no other midsize SUV that matches the Dodge Journey," said Tim Parker, dealer principal of Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, a Hot Springs, Arkansas Dodge dealer. "On top of all of that, it’s the most affordable vehicle in its segment, so you don't have to stop saving for your kids' college education to buy a Journey."

The Dodge Journey received a series of changes for the 2013 model year to improve on that value and content. Seventeen-inch wheels have become standard, while the Crew luxury trim now comes with premium leather upholstery, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel at no extra charge. In addition to more high-quality materials, the top-trim R/T also features a new performance suspension for even more precise handling.

For families that want to stay better connected and more entertained on long road trips, the 2013 Dodge Journey now offers the Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system as a standalone option on the SXT trim. Uconnect allows for hands-free phone operation with a Bluetooth-enabled phone and controls the available navigation system and rear-view camera.

Buyers of the 2013 Journey can choose between two engines to find their right mix of power and fuel efficiency. The standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder powerplant produces 173 horsepower while returning an impressive 26 mpg on the highway. However, those that need more capability for weekend getaways can upgrade to the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, which churns out 283 horsepower and tows up to 2,500 pounds. Despite that improved performance, the V6-equipped Journey still nets up to 25 mpg on the highway.

"The Dodge Journey can really be anything its owners want it to be, whether it is suburban transport to football practice, or the right ride for camping adventures in the wilderness," added Parker. "Regardless of where you're headed, you'll also have the peace of mind that you're getting there using less money."

About Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram:
A winner of Chrysler’s Five-Star Dealer and Environmental Leadership awards, Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has been serving Arkansas drivers for years with new and pre-owned car sales, service and parts at their Hot Springs auto dealership. Whether you’re looking for a Ram 1500, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger or Jeep Wrangler, Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram will find your ideal model with their unmatched customer-first approach. You can visit their showroom located at 4722 Central Ave. in Hot Springs, call them at 888-227-1487 or find them online at www.timparkerchrysler.com. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TimParkerAuto.