The Chinese-Built 2024 Dodge Journey Thrives in Mexico

The Dodge Journey, a beloved family crossover from 2009 to 2020, has transitioned into the Mexican market as a Chinese-produced product. Despite this shift, the second-generation Journey remains a success and an integral part of the Dodge lineup in Mexico. This model, developed through Stellantis’ partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd (GAC), is based on the Trumpchi GS5. It represents a significant departure from its budget-friendly, family-oriented, three-row origins, now emerging as a sleek, five-passenger, two-row crossover.

Exterior Styling – 

The 2024 Dodge Journey exhibits a modern and sporty design, distinguishing itself from its predecessors. The Dodge design studio has expertly integrated signature Dodge styling elements into the Trumpchi GS5 platform. One of the standout features is the iconic “bandit-style” grille, which adds a bold and aggressive look to the front fascia.

The sleek lines and aerodynamic contours enhance the vehicle’s sporty appeal, while the 190 LED rear taillight bar offers a touch of sophistication. This taillight bar mimics Dodge’s signature “race-track” taillamp design, ensuring that the Journey retains its distinctive brand identity.

Compared to the previous Mexican-built 2020 model, the 2024 Journey’s exterior design is more dynamic and contemporary. The refined aesthetics are further complemented by a selection of six vibrant exterior colors: Granite, Bright White, Silver, Bright Blue, Gloss Black, and Shiny Copper. This diverse color palette allows customers to personalize their Journey according to their preferences.

Spacious and Comfortable Interior – 

The 2024 Dodge Journey’s interior blends comfort, functionality, and modern technology, making it an appealing choice for families and individuals. The cabin is spacious, comfortably seating five passengers with one of the largest cargo spaces in its category. The 60/40 rear bench can be configured or fully reclined to create a flat load floor, enhancing versatility.

Higher-quality materials and refined finishes surpass the 2020 model. Soft-touch surfaces, piano black accents, and a leather-wrapped T-shifter gear lever add a touch of luxury.

The SXT and Sport models feature an analog gauge cluster with a 7-inch LCD screen, while the GT Plus model boasts a 12.3-inch LCD digital cluster, offering a modern look. All models come with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system also supports a reversing camera and a 360-degree surround-view camera on Sport and GT Plus models.

Performance and Handling –

The 2024 Dodge Journey delivers a balanced blend of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for various driving conditions. Under the hood, it features a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine, providing 169 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine is equipped with a BorgWarner low-inertia electronically controlled turbocharger and a second-generation Bosch high-pressure injection system, ensuring stable combustion, reduced emissions, and improved fuel efficiency.

The turbocharged engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission from Aisin, known for its quick response shifting, low fuel consumption, and adaptive intelligent control. This transmission includes Engine Start/Stop (ESS) and Natural Control features, further enhancing fuel efficiency. The center console offers controls for three different drive modes—Standard, Sport, and Comfort—allowing drivers to tailor their driving experience to their preferences and road conditions.

The Journey’s McPherson independent front suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, regardless of road conditions. The front suspension features a hydraulic brushing design, effectively suppressing shocks and vibrations from the road surface for a more comfortable driving experience. The high-clearance rear trailing arm is designed to absorb shocks and smooth out the ride, contributing to the Journey’s overall ride quality.

Equipment Packages and Pricing – 

The 2024 Dodge Journey lineup offers three equipment packages:

• 2024 Dodge Journey SXT – $545,900 MXN (approximately $29,578 USD)
  • Front and Rear Parking Sensors
  • Sunroof
  • Smart Key Access & Start
  • LED Headlamps and Taillamps
  • Backup Camera
  • Dual-Zone Climate Control
  • Cloth Seats
  • ESP, ABS, & Hill-Descent Assist
  • 7-Inch TFT Gauge Cluster
  • 8-Inch Infotainment Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • 18-Inch Aluminum Wheels
  • 8-Way Power Driver Seat

• 2024 Dodge Journey Sport – $621,900 MXN (approximately $33,695 USD)
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Faux Leather Seats
  • 10-Way Power Driver Seat
  • 4-Way Power Passenger Seat
  • Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
  • Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers
  • Automatic Headlights and High-Beams
  • 360-Degree Surround Camera
  • Side Curtain Airbags
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Blind-Spot Monitoring

• 2024 Dodge Journey GT Plus – $667,900 MXN (approximately $36,187 USD)
  • 12.3-Inch Gauge Cluster
  • 19-Inch Aluminum Wheels
  • Hands-Free Power Liftgate

The 2024 Dodge Journey has established itself as a mainstream product in Mexico, performing impressively well in the market. This success contrasts sharply with the reception of the Dodge Hornet in the U.S. and Canada, where it has struggled to gain traction. The Journey’s blend of modern design, spacious interior, advanced technology, and competitive pricing resonates strongly with Mexican consumers, making it one of the best-selling SUVs in the region.

By focusing on the specific needs and preferences of the Mexican market, Dodge has managed to create a product that not only honors the legacy of the original Journey but also brings a fresh and contemporary appeal. 

Image Source: Chrysler Monterrey Asesor Emiliano