2009 Dodge Journey: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Dodge Journey is an all-new model and the first year of the nameplate. It debuts as a midsize crossover focused on flexible family seating, useful cabin storage, and a solid set of standard safety features.
About the 2009 Dodge Journey
1st generation (2009-2020), first year
Dodge positioned the Journey as a crossover for shoppers who wanted minivan-like usefulness in a more SUV-shaped package. The core appeal was flexible seating, smart storage, easy family use, and Dodge styling in a car-based crossover. Against rivals, the Journey’s clearest identity was everyday practicality rather than sporty handling or premium luxury, especially with its sliding seats, fold-flat cabin pieces, and lots of small-item storage.
The 2009 lineup runs from the straightforward four-cylinder SE to the V6-powered SXT and more upscale R/T. The SXT adds conveniences such as a power driver’s seat and a fold-flat front passenger seat, while the R/T stands out with leather upholstery and heated front seats. Every trim has a sliding, fold-flat second row, and the SE highlights the Journey’s family focus with in-floor storage bins and a cooled upper glove box.
What changed, by category
2009 Dodge Journey specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | V6, HO, 3.5 Liter | V6, HO, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 173 hp | 235 hp | 235 hp |
| Torque | 166 lb-ft | 232 lb-ft | 232 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 67.6 cu-ft | 67.6 cu-ft | 67.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.1 in | 36.1 in | 36.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| LED Tail Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2009 the first year of the Dodge Journey?
Yes. The 2009 Journey is the model’s debut year and the start of its first generation.
What engines are in the 2009 Dodge Journey?
The 2009 Journey SE has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a four-speed automatic. The SXT and R/T have a 3.5-liter V6 paired with a six-speed automatic.
How do the 2009 Journey SE, SXT, and R/T differ?
The SE is the simpler four-cylinder model, the SXT is the practical V6 middle trim, and the R/T is the most upscale version. The R/T’s key extras include leather upholstery and heated front seats; it is not positioned as a dedicated performance model.
What safety features are standard on the 2009 Dodge Journey?
Every 2009 Journey has four-wheel anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, roll mitigation, and side-curtain airbags for all seating rows.
Does the 2009 Dodge Journey have fold-flat seating?
Yes. Every 2009 Journey has a sliding, reclining second-row seat with a 60/40 split and fold-flat sections. The SXT and R/T also have a fold-flat front passenger seat.