If you’re looking for an affordable, three-row SUV, the 2020 Dodge Journey might be the new vehicle you’re looking for. While the design does seem a bit dated next to its peers, the reasonable price makes it appealing to some people. Yeah, there are a few things working against it but it has an easy-to-use infotainment system and a configurable cabin.

What about standard features? With the new Dodge Journey priced well below its competitors, the list of standard features is probably pretty short, right?

The 2020 Dodge Journey

The 2020 Dodge Journey is an affordable, three-row SUV that went from three trim levels to two in 2020. Now you can get either the SE Value or the Crossroad. You can no longer get an all-wheel-drive model or the optional V6 with its six-speed automatic transmission.

That’s going to be a turn off for some because one of the bigger problems the Journey has is its reputation for underwhelming powertrains. Now there’s just one powertrain, the ancient 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired to a four-speed automatic transmission that gets a weak 172-horsepower. The 2020 Dodge Journey is now only available as front-wheel-drive. All-wheel-drive is gone.

There are option packages available with the 2020 models that bundle features together for convenience. With the SE Value trim level, the option package adds a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, three-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a security alarm, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Uconnect with Bluetooth and Voice Command.

With the Popular Equipment Group that you can only get for Crossroad models, you get heated front seats and steering wheel, a six-speaker sound system with subwoofer, navigation, remote start, and a universal garage door opener.

Standard features

The 2020 Dodge Journey is affordable for a reason. It’s pretty bare-bones when compared to most other SUVs and the laundry list of standard and optional features they offer. Certain features like heated rear seats, cooled seats, or a power-adjustable passenger seat aren’t available here.

There’s an easy-to-use 4.3-inch touchscreen but the infotainment system is a stripped-down version of what you get in other Dodge vehicles. There is no Android Auto or Apple CarPlay connectivity here. The Dodge Journey has one USB port in the front. That’s it.

There’s a distinct lack of driver-assistance technologies here. The 2020 models have added standard rear park assist to all models and the Crossroad models now have a standard sunroof. 

When it comes to cargo space, the new 2020 Dodge Journey has plenty. The third row with the seats folded down is a 50/50 split and the second row is a 60/40 split which offers a lot of available cargo space. There’s also a lot of cubby space to keep any number of things you want to bring along on everything from an errand to a longer road trip. There’s a good-sized bin under the cushion of the front passenger seat too. 

As for other standard features, you’ll find 17-inch steel wheels with plastic covers, automatic headlights, cloth upholstery, manually-adjusted seats, power features, and power mirrors.

The Dodge Journey only offers a limited warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles and a 5 year/60,000 mile warranty for the powertrain. You get no complimentary scheduled maintenance for this SUV from the manufacturer.

The final verdict

While the 2020 Dodge Journey is the least expensive midsize SUV in its class it’s also the lowest in other comparable areas. While it’s reasonably priced which many families, college students, and new drivers will appreciate, it’s missing a lot of the key features people expect in today’s vehicle. If you’re looking for modern connectivity, driver-assist features,  and safety features, you won’t find it here.

Down to one unimpressive powertrain, the Dodge Journey offers an awkward, clumsy ride. If you need a new SUV on a budget though, the Dodge Journey may be something to consider.