The 2016 Dodge Journey occupies a unique space in the automotive landscape. Often described during its launch as the "Swiss Army Knife" of crossovers, it remains one of the most accessible ways to secure a three-row vehicle without breaking the bank. In an era where new car prices have skyrocketed, looking back at a well-maintained Journey reveals a vehicle designed with a specific focus on interior utility and passenger flexibility that many modern, more expensive SUVs struggle to match.

The Mechanical Heart: Choosing Between Efficiency and Power

When evaluating a 2016 Dodge Journey, the first thing to understand is that it exists in two very different mechanical forms. Your driving experience will be entirely defined by which engine is under the hood.

The 2.4-Litre I-4: The Entry-Level Reality

The standard engine for the SE, SXT, and Crossroad trims is a 2.4-litre 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder. Producing 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, this engine was designed for the budget-conscious commuter. However, it is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission—a piece of technology that felt dated even in 2016.

While this combination offers a lower entry price and reasonable highway fuel economy (around 26 mpg), it can feel underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded with seven passengers and cargo. For city driving and flat terrain, it gets the job done, but it lacks the refinement found in the more powerful V6 variant.

The 3.6-Litre Pentastar V6: The Preferred Choice

For those who plan on using the Journey for road trips or live in hilly regions, the 3.6-litre Pentastar VVT V6 is the engine to seek out. Standard on the R/T and AWD models (and optional on others), this engine is a three-time winner of Ward’s "10 Best Engines."

With 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the V6 transforms the Journey's personality. It is mated to a much smoother six-speed automatic transmission that provides better gear spacing for both acceleration and highway cruising. Despite the significant jump in power, the fuel economy penalty is relatively minor, with the V6 delivering up to 25 mpg on the highway. If you are looking for the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability, the V6 is the mandatory power plant, providing an on-demand system that enhances traction in snow and rain without the driver needing to intervene.

Interior Versatility: A Masterclass in Storage

Where the 2016 Dodge Journey truly shines is inside the cabin. Dodge engineers borrowed heavily from their minivan expertise to create a crossover that maximizes every square inch of space.

Innovative Storage Solutions

The "Best-in-Class" storage claims weren't just marketing hype. The Journey features several clever solutions that are still impressive today:

  • In-Floor Storage Bins: Located in the second row, these two bins are removable and washable. They can hold up to a dozen 355-ml cans plus ice, making them perfect for tailgating or keeping snacks cold on long trips. When not used as coolers, they provide a concealed place to store electronics or valuables.
  • Flip ‘n Stow: The front passenger seat cushion flips forward to reveal a hidden compartment. It’s an ideal spot for a small bag or tablet, keeping them out of sight from passersby.
  • 90-Degree Rear Doors: One of the most underrated features of the Journey is the rear doors. They open to a full 90-degree angle, making it significantly easier to install car seats or for third-row passengers to climb in and out.

Seating for Five or Seven

The Journey was offered in both five-passenger and seven-passenger configurations. The Tilt ‘n Slide second-row seats allow for one-handed access to the third row, which is a rare find in a vehicle of this size. While the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips for adults, it provides that "just in case" flexibility that many families require. Additionally, the availability of class-exclusive integrated child booster seats in the second row eliminates the need to lug around bulky external boosters.

Navigating the Trim Levels

For 2016, Dodge simplified the lineup to five main models, making it easier for used car buyers to identify the value in each.

The SE and SXT

The SE replaced the previous "American Value Package" as the entry point. It comes standard with 17-inch wheels and Keyless Enter ‘n Go with push-button start. The SXT adds more comfort features and was the volume leader, often found with the available V6 engine and more exterior color options like the Jazz Blue Pearl or Olive Green introduced that year.

The Crossroad and Crossroad Plus

The Crossroad models are arguably the most attractive versions of the 2016 Dodge Journey. They feature a rugged exterior look with platinum chrome accents, black-accented headlamps, and 19-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels.

The Crossroad Plus is a significant step up in interior quality. It replaces the basic cloth with leather seating featuring sport mesh inserts. More importantly, it includes the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen system, which remains one of the most intuitive infotainment interfaces from that era. With large icons and a responsive screen, it manages climate, navigation, and audio with minimal distraction.

The R/T (Road & Track)

As the top-tier model, the R/T comes standard with the V6 engine, a high-performance suspension, and a premium six-speaker Alpine sound system with a 368-watt amplifier. It’s the choice for those who want the most refined driving experience the Journey can offer.

Real-World Ownership Costs and Fuel Economy

Owning a decade-old vehicle requires a clear understanding of ongoing costs. Based on EPA data, a V6 2016 Dodge Journey with FWD averages about 19 mpg in combined city/highway driving. While this was competitive in 2016, it is thirsty by today’s hybrid-dominant standards.

If you opt for the Flex-Fuel (E85) capable V6, be aware that while the fuel might be cheaper per gallon, the energy density is lower, resulting in a combined mpg of around 14. For most owners, sticking to regular gasoline is the most cost-effective path.

Maintenance on the Journey is generally straightforward. Parts for the 2.4L and 3.6L engines are widely available and relatively affordable because these engines were used across millions of Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. Common areas to inspect on a used 2016 model include the brakes and rotors, which can wear prematurely due to the vehicle's weight, and the electrical connections for the rear backup camera if equipped.

Safety and Technology in 2026

Is a 2016 vehicle safe enough for a family today? The Journey was built with a high-strength steel cage and features seven standard airbags, including a driver’s knee blocker airbag.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with all-speed traction control, brake assist, and electronic roll mitigation are standard. For those who tow small trailers, the standard Trailer Sway Control is a valuable addition. Tech-wise, the ParkView rear back-up camera and Park-Sense rear park assist provide the necessary visibility for tight parking spots. While it lacks the advanced active driver assists (like lane-keep assist or automatic emergency braking) found in newer cars, its passive safety features were robust for its time.

The Verdict: Is the 2016 Dodge Journey Right for You?

The 2016 Dodge Journey is not a luxury vehicle, nor is it a fuel-sipping hybrid. Instead, it is a pragmatic tool. It is for the person who values utility over status.

You should consider it if:

  • You need a three-row vehicle on a strict budget.
  • You value clever interior storage more than high-speed cornering.
  • You want a simple, proven engine like the Pentastar V6 that local mechanics can easily service.
  • You appreciate a quiet cabin (thanks to features like the dual dash silencer) and a soft ride quality.

You might want to look elsewhere if:

  • Fuel economy is your top priority.
  • You want the latest semi-autonomous driving technologies.
  • You require a third row capable of seating tall adults for long durations.

In the context of the used market, the 2016 Dodge Journey remains a strong contender simply because it offers more "car per dollar" than almost anything else in its class. By focusing on the Crossroad Plus or R/T trims with the V6 engine, you can secure a versatile, comfortable, and surprisingly tech-savvy family hauler that still performs its duties with competence. It stands as a testament to the idea that a vehicle doesn't need to be fancy to be incredibly useful.