A curious, but satisfying, Journey

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2009 DODGE JOURNEY R/T AWD

$31,885 Price as tested.

Add $625 for freight.

M.P.G.: 15 City / 22 Highway

LENGTH WHEELBASE: 192.4 inches 113.8 inches

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automatic

ENGINE: 3.5-liter, 235-h.p., 24-valve V-6

THE STICKER

* $27,670 Base

* $1,220 Flexible seating group with three rows of seats for seven, second row tilts and slides for access to the back, third-row seat backs fold/recline and separate controls for rear-seat air conditioning/heater

* $795 Power sunroof

* $695 Customer preferred package with cargo compartment cover, adjustable roof rails, auto-dimming rearview mirror, cabin air filtration system, UConnect hands-free phone and driver information center

* $625 Chrome 19-inch wheels

* $495 Infinity premium speakers

* $225 Deep Water Blue exterior paint

* $130 Trailer towing package with engine oil cooler and trailer wiring

* $30 Smokers group with front-seat ashtray/lighter

PLUSES

* New AWD crossover.

* Goodies range from pop cooler in glovebox to ice chests in rear floor, purse holder under front passenger seat and stowage under rear cargo floor.

* Second/third-row seat backs fold flat.

MINUSES

* Disappointing mileage that a hybrid or diesel could help.

* Mini access to micromini third row.

* Precious little cargo room with all three rows occupied.

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Contact Jim Mateja attransportation@tribune.com.