Duel Between Two Optional Seven Seaters – Dodge Journey VS Kia Sorento
Dodge Journey
Engine: 2.4L
Horsepower: 173
Fuel Economy: 19 City / 26 Hwy
MSRP: Starting at $20,295
Inside the 2015 Dodge Journey:
The 2015 Dodge Journey is a mid-sized crossover SUV that began production with the 2009 model. The base model, or American Value Package, is very affordably priced at just $20,295 and comes equipped with a 173 horsepower, four cylinder 2.4L engine with a moderate fuel economy. The Journey line-up of vehicles is very extensive with six additional upgrade models including SE, SXT, SXT Plus, Crossroad, Limited, and R/T. The R/T and Limited offerings come standard with a more powerful V6 engine that pushes 283 horsepower, which is optional in all but the AVP and SE models. The real perk of this vehicle comes in the roominess of the interior. While the playbill states this is a mid-sized SUV, the seating configuration and legroom is among the best in class and rivals most minivans.
While there isn’t much change from the previous 2014 model, this year’s Journey does see some additional options in terms of color choice and the once optional 3rd row of seating now comes standard in many models. Even the top-tiered R/T model is conveniently priced at just above $30,000. You don’t see many sub- $30K SUVs with that additional 3rd row of seating which brings a lot of value to the Journey. In terms of upgrades, buyers have limited options outside of moving to a new trim package. The 8.4in infotainment center with Uconnect Voice Command is an impressive suite with information on weather and traffic in addition to Bluetooth integration to your mobile device.
Kia Sorento
Engine: 2.4L
Horsepower: 191
Fuel Economy: 19 City / 27 Hwy
MSRP: Starting at $24,300
Inside the 2015 Kia Sorento:
Over the years, the Kia brand name has become known for their affordably priced vehicles and the Sorento is no different. The Sorento began production in 2002 with a wildly different design from what we know it as today. The once truck based frame was overhauled in 2009 and now is built on the crossover platform on a car frame. The entry level Sorento LX is priced at just $24,300 with a 2.4L, 191 horsepower four cylinder engine. The Sorento has a much smoother driving experience than the Dodge Journey. The Sorento is available in four additional trim options with the LX V6, EX, SX and Limited with an available upgraded engine of the a 3.3L, 290 horsepower V6 offering. While the Sorento is priced well for families who look for a mid-sized crossover rather than a minivan, the appeal comes in the luxurious feel the interior of the Sorento has.
The 2015 model brings very few changes. This is largely due to the fact the 2014 saw a complete overhaul from front grill to back tail light. The grill on the 2015 Sorento is slightly different from last year and the interior received a touchup. The 3rd row of seating is standard on all V6 models. The base level comes with many premium features including satellite radio, remote keyless entry and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. Kia gives consumers a ton of upgrade options and features from a power sunroof and sunshade to power tailgate and heated 2nd row seating. The 8in touchscreen display is simple and although doesn’t have all the functionality that other infotainment centers have, still connects to smartphone devices and makes it easy to manage your music selections.
Our Pick for Winner
Base Model: Kia Sorento
The Dodge Journey base model comes equipped with a lackluster 2.4L engine that at times seems loud and sounds strained. A much roomier vehicle, the Journey has a significantly lower entry level price, but when awarding a winner, we gave the edge to the Kia Sorento with the luxury-feel and smoother handling.
Upgrades: Dodge Journey
While the Dodge Journey doesn’t have many additional packages or upgrade options, consumers have seven trim packages to choose from as you move laterally through trim options. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine eliminates all concerns we had when comparing the base package as the handling and performance are much better with this upgrade option.
Overall Winner:
Dodge Journey
There were just a few things that we couldn’t quite overlook with the Kia Sorento. This is ultimately a family vehicle for many consumers and the infotainment center that the Sorento provides fails in comparison to the Journey. The 3rd row of seating is available in both models but the Dodge Journey gives riders a lot more room, which ultimately solidified the win.
