2009 Dodge Journey

The 2009 Dodge Journey is the latest Chrysler offering to make its world premiere on an international stage, this time at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. While born and raised in Auburn Hills, Chrysler has developed what its calling a segment redefining crossover (aren't they all?) with left and right hand drive capability and a diesel option out of the gate -- underscoring its intention to send the Journey traveling to showrooms far and wide.

Previously thought to have been called Crew, the Journey has been spied multiple times over the past year in prototype form. Its puffed-up wagon profile is more Ford Taurus X than its hard-edged Dodge Nitro and Caliber stablemates. But it still carries plenty of Dodge's recent design DNA, including the cross hair grille and other noticeable touches.

Journey, which is being hailed as the melding of SUV, minivan and car, was developed using Chrysler's global D-segment platform. Its 113.8 inch wheelbase is about five inches longer than the Dodge Avenger (another D-segment car) -- in order to develop its available seven-passenger configuration. The vehicle is further underpinned by a four-wheel independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear.

Available in SE, SXT and R/T trims, Journey also shares Avenger's powertrain options. The standard 2.4-liter world engine produces 173 horsepower and 166 lb.-ft. of torque and is the most fuel efficient of the bunch at an estimated 19 city/25 highway mpg.

Other engine choices include the E85 capable 2.7-liter V-6 engine (186 horsepower and 191 lb.-ft.). The top-of-the-range 3.5-liter V-6 is rated at 235 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. and is coupled to Chrysler's six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick. The front-drive Journey is also available with all-wheel-drive as an option on 3.5-liter equipped models.

Both the 2.4-liter and the 2.7-liter six come with a four speed automatic only for North America, with a five speed manual available for the rest of the world. Other powertrain goodies we won't get include a 2.0-liter turbo diesel I4. The diesel is available with Chrysler's Getrag-developed dual clutch six speed transmission -- a shifting setup similar to VW's much-lauded DSG. Note to Chrysler, bring that stuff over here, pronto.