2014 Dodge Journey SE gets a V6 and all-wheel drive

Chrysler is upgrading the 2014 Dodge Journey SE by giving it all-wheel-drive capability and a V6 engine under the hood. The SE will start out at $25,890 including destination, which is $1,800 cheaper than the more highly equipped SXT model.

Dodge's seven-passenger Journey comes with features like 17-inch wheels, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, seven airbags, 4.3-inch touchscreen, Keyless push-button start and power-heated mirrors.

Under the hood, the Journey SE sports Dodge's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, which delivers 283 hp with 260 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission; helping deliver the respectable EPA estimated 24 mpg highway rating.

The 2014 Journey SE's all-wheel-drive system performs primarily on the front wheels to conserve fuel, but it will engage the rear wheels when slip is detected. The all-wheel drive is also engaged on dry pavement at speeds between 25 and 65 mph, which Dodge says enhances the handling and performance of the vehicle.

When drivers hit speeds above 25 mph, the Journey's AWD system sends torque to the rear wheels, making tight turns feel less labored and making for more neutral handling, as Dodge describes it. When reaching highway speeds upward of 53 mph and above, Dodge says the control strategy provides minimal rear torque, again helping it achieve the best fuel economy possible. The Journey's AWD electronic control module works in unison with Dodge's electronic-stability control and traction-control systems.

Buyers can check out the 2014 Dodge Journey SE at a showroom near them as it is arriving in dealerships now.

By Natalie Sejnost