Dodge’s Journey into space!

The elevated driving position provides a clear view of the road ahead, while doors which open through a 90-degree range make accessing the rear a great deal easier.

Dodge’s newcomer is much more aggressively styled than the S-MAX, with muscular SUV-inspired bodywork. It will get a reasonably large boot and a two-strong engine range, while a choice of front and four-wheel-drive versions will be available.

Based on sister company Chrysler’s global D-Segment platform – which also underpins Dodge’s new Avenger, tested this week on Page 36 – the Journey will take the American brand into uncharted territory.

Described as a crossover, it promises to blend the capability of an SUV with the space of an MPV, as well as the handling of a saloon car. And there’s no doubt that the new model is set to turn heads when it goes on sale next summer. Dodge designers have achieved a functional look with the Journey. This is complemented by sporty touches, such as 19-inch alloy wheels, sculpted arches and stain-less steel roof rails.

Large headlamps and bright fog-lights also strengthen the model’s modern appearance, and neatly frame the company’s bold corporate grille. Under the bonnet, the Journey has either a 173bhp 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol powerplant or a 2.0-litre TDI diesel. The latter delivers 140bhp and 310Nm of torque. There will also be the option of six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.

Exact performance figures have yet to be revealed, but the Journey promises to be fairly efficient. Dodge claims that diesel-powered versions of the model will return around 40mpg.

Equipment will include satellite navigation, air-conditioning and a rear seat entertainment system feat- uring a colour screen and DVD player. Also included is the marque’s myGIG MP3 system, which enables owners to download digital music on to an on-board hard drive.

Standard safety kit will comprise multi-stage airbags for the driver and front seat passenger, as well as handy tyre-pressure monitors. While prices for the Journey have not yet been released, the range is likely to start at less than £20,000.