Journey

Make
Dodge
Segment
SUV

You might not realize it, but the Dodge Journey debuted for the 2009 model year. Think of all that's happened since. Fiat Chrysler has come into existence, the "Lost" finale was beyond disappointing, and Donald Trump has been elected president. And through it all, the Dodge Journey has been there, and it's still going strong. In fact, Dodge claims it sold 105,000 units in 2015. So what's there to like about a crossover that's built on the same platform as the ancient Dodge Caliber, Avenger and - dare it be said - Jeep Patriot and previous-gen Compass?

Value, in a nutshell. Powered by an optional (and well worth it) 3.6-liter V6 with 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, power goes to either the front or all four wheels through a six-speed automatic. For the record, the base engine and transmission is a sad 2.4-liter inline-four with 173 hp paired to a four-speed slushbox.

But the Journey does offer three-rows of seats, V6 power and AWD for around $30,000. Compared to so many other mid-size CUVs, that's a solid bargain. Step inside and our sampler was equipped with several extras, including full leather seats and an 8.4-inch touchscreen. You may remember an older interior constructed of plastic cheaper than a Tonka toy. Fortunately that's no longer the case, as FCA has replaced that nasty plastic with plenty of soft touch materials. So yes, buyers are getting an affordable three-row CUV, but there's something else to know: interior space, notably the second and third row seats, isn't particularly spacious. Then again, a bargain is a bargain. Special thanks to DGDG.com for letting us film the car.