🚘 Dodge Journey Discontinued: 7 Best SUVs to Buy Instead ( Ultimate Guide)
Full comparison, pricing, reliability analysis, interactive payment calculator, and detailed FAQ. Designed for owners and buyers seeking the perfect cars similar to Dodge Journey.
Why the Dodge Journey Was Discontinued & What It Means for Owners
After 11 years on the market, the Dodge Journey was phased out after 2020. Stellantis (formerly FCA) retired the model due to its aging GS platform, poor fuel economy, and lack of modern safety tech. Yet the Journey remains popular in the used market for its affordable 3-row seating and simple V6 option. For current owners, finding a worthy successor means balancing price, seating flexibility, and reliability.
Detailed Comparison: 7 Best SUVs Like Dodge Journey
| Model | Engine / Drivetrain | Seating | Starting Price (2025) | MPG (city/hwy) | Towing (max) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitsubishi Outlander | 2.5L I4 · CVT · FWD/AWD | 7 (3rd row opt.) | $28,395 | 24/31 | 2,000 lbs |
| Kia Sorento | 2.5L I4 / turbo / hybrid · 8AT · FWD/AWD | 6 or 7 | $31,990 | 23/31 | 3,500 lbs |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 2.5L I4 / turbo / hybrid · 8AT · FWD/AWD | 5 (2024+); 2021-23 3rd row opt. | $28,350 | 22/29 | 2,000 lbs |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 3.6L V6 / 5.7L V8 · 8AT · RWD/4WD | 7 | $41,730 | 19/26 | 6,200 lbs |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | 2.0L turbo I4 · 8AT · FWD/4Motion | 5 or 7 (opt.) | $29,410 | 23/30 | 1,500 lbs |
| Ford Explorer | 2.3L EcoBoost / hybrid · 10AT · RWD/AWD | 6 or 7 | $37,580 | 21/28 | 5,000 lbs |
| Mazda CX-9 | 2.5L turbo I4 · 6AT · FWD/AWD | 6 or 7 | $38,550 (2023 final) | 20/26 | 3,500 lbs |
Note: Used prices for 2021-2023 models range $19,000 – $32,000 depending on mileage and condition.
In-Depth Reviews: 7 Best Cars Similar to Dodge Journey
Mitsubishi Outlander — The Closest Relative
Built on the same GS platform as the Dodge Journey until 2021, the Outlander shares its bones with the Journey — but with a major interior and tech upgrade. The 2022+ model is all-new, yet still offers an optional third row (rare in this class).
✅ Pros
- 10-year/100,000-mile warranty
- Available 7 seats
- User-friendly infotainment
- Low ownership costs
- Good safety scores
❌ Cons
- CVT drone under hard acceleration
- Third row is tiny (kids only)
- Less cargo space than Journey
- Base model lacks power
Verdict: Best for Journey owners wanting a familiar footprint with modern safety and a bulletproof warranty. Used Outlanders (2019-2021) are a steal at $18k–$24k.
Kia Sorento — Best All-Rounder for Families
The Sorento is slightly more upscale than the Journey, but offers the same practical 3-row flexibility. Its 2024 refresh brought rugged X-Pro trim and improved hybrid options. The interior quality far surpasses the Journey’s hard plastics.
✅ Pros
- Excellent safety scores (IIHS Top Safety Pick)
- Smooth ride, quiet cabin
- Available turbo hybrid for efficiency
- Smart tech features
❌ Cons
- Base engine feels weak
- Third row best for small children
- Infotainment can lag
- Higher depreciation than some rivals
Hyundai Santa Fe — Smart Value Pick (Used)
If you can find a 2021-2022 Santa Fe with the optional third row, it’s a direct Journey competitor. Later models dropped the 3rd row but gained premium feel and hybrid options.
✅ Pros
- Strong reliability ratings
- High-quality cabin
- Lots of standard tech
- Comfortable ride
❌ Cons
- No 3rd row after 2023
- Tighter 2nd-row legroom
- Base engine noisy
Jeep Grand Cherokee L — The Premium Upgrade
For Journey owners who loved the rugged image but want luxury, the Grand Cherokee L delivers. Available V6 (same family as Journey’s Pentastar) and V8, proper 4WD, and true adult-sized third row. But it’s larger and pricier. Used 2021-2023 models hover around $38k–$48k.
Volkswagen Tiguan — European 3-Room Flexibility
The Tiguan is one of the few compact SUVs offering an available third row (best for occasional use). It drives more nimbly than the Journey and has a premium feel. Downsides: turbo lag and firm seats. Cargo space behind third row is minimal.
Ford Explorer — The Traditional Hauler
A top seller for decades, the Explorer offers real third-row space, powerful engine options, and rear-wheel drive bias for better handling. Used examples are abundant, but watch for water pump issues on earlier 3.5L models. 2020+ models much improved.
Mazda CX-9 — The Driver’s Choice
The CX-9 (soon to be CX-90) handles like a much smaller car, with a punchy turbo engine and sumptuous interior. Third row is tight, but for those who value driving dynamics over max space, it’s a standout. Discontinued after 2023, so focus on 2021-2023 used models.
Reliability Compared: Journey vs. Alternatives
| Model | J.D. Power Reliability (out of 100) | Common Issues (model years) |
|---|---|---|
| Dodge Journey | 78 | Oil consumption (2.4L), TIPM failures, transmission slips |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | 84 | CVT hesitation, AC evaporator corrosion (older models) |
| Kia Sorento | 82-86 | Engine knocking (Theta II, pre-2021), transmission shudder (some 8-speeds) |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 83-88 | Engine failures (2.4L Theta II, 2013-2019), brake issues (pre-2020) |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 80 | Electrical glitches, air suspension problems (if equipped), Uconnect lag |
| VW Tiguan | 76-81 | Water pump leaks, sunroof leaks, turbo wastegate failure, carbon buildup |
| Ford Explorer | 79-83 | Water pump failure (internal, 3.5L), power liftgate issues, 10-speed harsh shifts |
| Mazda CX-9 | 85-89 | Cracked cylinder head (early 2.5T), infotainment lag, some turbo issues |
Best Affordable Used SUVs Like Dodge Journey (Under $22,000)
If you’re sticking to a Journey-like budget, here are prime used options with 3-row capability:
- 2019-2021 Mitsubishi Outlander – 3rd row, low depreciation, $17k–$23k.
- 2020-2022 Hyundai Santa Fe (with 3rd row) – $19k–$25k.
- 2020-2021 Ford Explorer – police fleet returns, $20k–$27k (watch for high miles).
- 2021-2022 Volkswagen Tiguan – 3rd row possible, $20k–$24k.
- 2019-2020 Kia Sorento – 3rd row standard, $18k–$23k.
Always get a pre-purchase inspection and check service records for the common issues listed above.
Buying Guide: What Dodge Journey Owners Ask — Detailed FAQ
Maintenance Tips If You Keep Your Dodge Journey
If you decide to hold onto your Journey, address these weak points:
- Oil consumption (2.4L): Check oil level every 1,000 miles; use high-mileage synthetic.
- TIPM electrical issues: Intermittent starting or fuel pump relay failure — consider upgraded relay or used TIPM from reputable source.
- Transmission: Change fluid every 60,000 miles to prevent slipping.
- Rear suspension: Sagging springs are common — upgrade to heavy-duty coils if you carry loads.
