Adventure vs space: jeep renegade vs dodge journey – the ultimate touring comparison

In the realm of compact SUVs, two formidable contenders emerge: the Jeep Renegade and the Dodge Journey. Both vehicles offer a blend of utility, style, and performance, making them popular choices among adventure enthusiasts and family-oriented drivers alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Jeep Renegade and the Dodge Journey, helping you make an informed decision on which SUV best suits your needs.

Design and Style

The Jeep Renegade exudes a rugged and adventurous spirit with its boxy silhouette, iconic seven-slot grille, and round headlights. Its compact dimensions make it nimble for city driving, while its elevated ride height and off-road capabilities hint at its adventurous nature.

In contrast, the Dodge Journey presents a more streamlined and modern appearance. Its sleek lines, sloping roofline, and chrome accents give it a sophisticated and urban appeal. While it lacks the Renegade’s rugged exterior, the Journey offers a more spacious and comfortable cabin.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the Jeep Renegade, you’ll find a cabin that’s both functional and stylish. The dashboard features a user-friendly layout with easy-to-reach controls and a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The seats are supportive and offer plenty of legroom for front and rear passengers.

The Dodge Journey boasts a more spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers. The second and third rows offer ample legroom and headroom, making it an ideal choice for families. The cabin materials are of higher quality than in the Renegade, and the seats are plush and comfortable.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Jeep Renegade offers a choice of two engines: a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder. The 1.4-liter engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, while the 2.4-liter engine offers more muscle for off-road adventures.

The Dodge Journey is available with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.6-liter V6 engine. The 2.4-liter engine is fuel-efficient and delivers sufficient power for most drivers, while the 3.6-liter V6 provides impressive acceleration and towing capabilities.

In terms of handling, the Jeep Renegade feels more agile and responsive than the Dodge Journey. Its smaller size and lower center of gravity contribute to its nimble handling, making it more enjoyable to drive on winding roads. The Dodge Journey, on the other hand, offers a more comfortable ride with its softer suspension and higher profile tires.

Off-Road Capabilities

When it comes to off-road performance, the Jeep Renegade shines with its legendary Trail Rated® badge. The Trailhawk trim comes equipped with a four-wheel drive system, skid plates, and off-road tires, giving it the ability to conquer challenging terrain.

The Dodge Journey offers limited off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system. However, it lacks the specialized features of the Renegade and is not recommended for serious off-roading adventures.

Technology and Safety

Both the Jeep Renegade and the Dodge Journey offer a range of advanced technology and safety features. The Renegade comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, and a suite of driver-assist technologies including blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning.

The Dodge Journey offers a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a premium audio system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and forward collision warning.

Price and Value

The Jeep Renegade has a starting price of $25,295 for the base Sport trim. The Dodge Journey, on the other hand, starts at a lower price of $23,995 for the base SE trim. However, the Renegade offers more standard features and a higher level of off-road capability, which may justify its higher price point.

Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between the Jeep Renegade and the Dodge Journey depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize ruggedness, off-road performance, and a more compact size, the Jeep Renegade is the clear winner. However, if you value space, comfort, and a lower price point, the Dodge Journey is a compelling option.

Final Thoughts

Both the Jeep Renegade and the Dodge Journey are excellent choices in the compact SUV segment. They offer a unique blend of style, functionality, and performance. The Renegade excels in off-road adventures, while the Journey provides a more spacious and comfortable cabin. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific requirements.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which SUV has better off-road capabilities, the Jeep Renegade or the Dodge Journey?
A: The Jeep Renegade has superior off-road capabilities with its Trail Rated® badge, four-wheel drive system, and off-road tires.

Q: Which SUV is more spacious and comfortable, the Jeep Renegade or the Dodge Journey?
A: The Dodge Journey offers a more spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for up to seven passengers and plush seats.

Q: Which SUV has a lower starting price, the Jeep Renegade or the Dodge Journey?
A: The Dodge Journey has a lower starting price than the Jeep Renegade, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.