Test Drive Dodge Journey since 2011 Minivan
Test Seliger
I have always said that Russia is the best place for test drives. If under the definition of a test drive to understand not a pleasant walk, namely the test of a new model. Here, for example, it is not necessary to build special off-road tracks drove a bit from the Garden Ring, and the off-road any degree of difficulty in your disposal. In addition, any fleet on off-road and sluggishness, as Comrade Bender spoke, in our conditions it is difficult to predict, inevitably extremal and in the end. But questions about what the machine is capable, does not remain. So after the trip to Lake Seliger, organized by Chrysler, there were no new Jeep Cherokee, nor to the new crossover (this determines the type of this car the manufacturer itself) Dodge Journey. Flying to the trail
Damn it's nice when the test drive organizers are trying to make this event extraordinary. Personally, I still, although seven years have passed, I remember in the details I remember the key presentation of the Cherokee of the past generation in South Africa, in a huge national park. Among other things, it happened there and a helicopter flight: Piloto Buru as if there was nothing to lose the native reserved land, and he struck us desperate (and precisely calculated) by piloting. What was my surprise when, and this time I learned that we had to get to Seliger, we would have a helicopter. To confess, I did not know that Mi-8 is able to take on board 22 people. Of course, no shapes of the highest pilot of the carriage showed the crew, the car flew almost exactly and very low, but by a drop of adrenaline we still got. And we were frankly glad that the return route to the capital would need to overcome on cars.
From the meadow, on which the helicopter landed, to the hotel complex called the trail, we had a walking walk on pure invigorating (+9) air. Here I understood why the complex is called this way, and not otherwise: it is the path, the roads in the usual understanding of this word is not. It's not difficult to drive on the SUV, but it's very difficult on the passenger car, it all depends on the clearance and weather in bad weather, it is better not to try even on the wagon of increased passability. In the path, however, they found a simple way out: guests are offered to leave transport on the other shore of the lake (there is parking), and deliver them to the place of recreation by boats or on the boats on the air cushion. Rooms, notice along the way, stand at about the same as in the southern shore of France. True, the cottages are log, spacious, there is apartments with a jacuzzi.
However, I am too distracted from the car theme. But here they are, Jeep Cherokee Fourth Generation, waiting for us from a log fence. (I note in brackets, that with generations of this model it is not easy to figure out, so some of the historians of the brand can classify the current Cherokee to the third generation, others to the fifth or even to the seventh. It is hardly important, but if it's hard to follow the name, everything comes out the fourth).
I. Jeep Cherokee. Style and Comfort
The exterior design explicitly testifies to return to the origins: Cherokee has again gained classic angular shapes, forcing and even about the first generation of the model, and even about the progenitor of modern jeeps famous since the Second World War Willys. Well, militaristic style, as nor sad, now again in fashion. Now he does not even scare the ladies who are increasingly able to see driving large brutal cars. Cherokee, however, an average-sized SUV, but a new-old style to his face. Honestly, I personally had nothing against the former appearance of the Indian. But the taste is. Now Cherokee looks undoubtedly more courageous, he literally blows him with decisiveness. Lupportlessly defenseless to themselves lost the place of aggressive expressiveness to the front with the original block headlights will not refuse this.
With all changes, the model remained quite recognizable by brand name, from now on, the chromed radiator grill, trapezoidal wheel arches, three side windows. The length of the car remained almost the same (minus ephemeral 3 mm), but it became wider by 20 mm and below for 201 mm. If an externally new Cherokee is an even firmly shot down jeep, then inside that I am surprisingly, it seemed a little more spacious. In the shoulder zone, it became free, and the ceiling, despite the fact that it became below, does not press, there is enough space.
The interior as a whole is still simple and functional, but the difference compared to the model of the past generation is very sensible. First of all, the quality of finishing materials has improved: plastic on the front panel and door sidewalls are no longer so tough, skin of good quality and on the seats, and on the ram, a soft upholstery. A shield with orange appliances arrows is very informative now Cherokee has an EVIC on-board news center. An additional niche with a non-slip surface appeared on top of the central console, it is convenient to put it in it, say, a mobile phone or some other little thing. The console itself is not overloaded with venneers and buttons, control the climate control system and the audio system (you can and from the steering wheel) is simpler. You can, by the way, order a Jeep Cherokee with a MYGIG multimedia system with a touch screen, voice control function, a rigid 20 gigabyte disk for storing music files (at least 100 hours!) Or photos. Plus 8 columns, subwoofer, 368-watt amplifier.
The seats have become more convenient. The lower pillow lengthened, a slightly increased the degree of lateral support, the range of electrically regulators expanded. Therefore, despite the fact that the steering column is regulated only by the inclination, hees on all the rules is easy. More conveniently, the transmission mode switch is now not to handle, but a semicircular toggle switch at the bottom of the central console. The ability to regulate the tilt of the back and rear passengers.
The volume of the luggage compartment can be varied in the range from 419 to 1404 liters, if folded the rear seats. In addition, in the sidewalls of the compartment there are special compartments with fasteners, the floor is provided with a double-sided coating, in addition, there is a waterproof pallet under it. Yes, I almost forgot to say about the panoramic roof Sky Slider options funny, but, in my opinion, absolutely superfluous in our climatic conditions. Essentially, this is a huge hatch, a waterproof material, which is going to the harmonic. I clicked on the key and open the roof at least in parts, even completely, to the rear row of the seats. Or, on the contrary, from the rear row.
However, it's time to understand how it all rides.
On gasoline And the Cherokee is not the same, very much depends on which engine is located under the hood. Moreover, it is not only about accelerating dynamics or maximum speed. On the off-road and countrywoods for which we mainly and chased the entire first day, the difference in the behavior of cars with different power units was obvious. But in order.
The 12-valve V6 is already perceived as a certain anachronism. It, of course, tested by time, is well balanced, he will not refuse him in the defense and pleasant roar at high speed. But, aggregated with the same elderly 4-speed automaton, he introduces a strange sensation of disharmony in the character of Cherokee. Of course, this is a purely subjective assessment, but that I felt.
The car with V6 seems to be neither enough, too easy in cool turns on the bulk, clay or slippery canvas easily and, in my opinion, tormented too early to break into the skid, now and the case is activating the ESP coucer system. This system, by the way, enters work with typical American grunts, but acts very intelligently, primarily a slower wheel (or wheels), and not reducing the supply of fuel. Very correct settings! Moreover, the demolition of the stern occurs both with an active movement in 2WD mode (rear-wheel drive) and in 4WD auto mode. The situation can be corrected by going to 4WD LOW mode, but the rigid blocking of the coupling does not imply fast ride.
Here I have to say about two incoming circumstances, largely influenced the perception of the car. First, we rode, we must admit, for the most part in an extreme for such roads pace. So, quite likely, a power driver no frivolous in the behavior of gasoline Cherokee will not notice. Secondly, all the cars were shovel into all-season tires with an inexpressive protector are not too suitable for such tests. But maybe it is for the better, the fact of the manner of the behavior of the car. In addition, the tires are equal to the gasoline, and on diesel versions. Nevertheless, in time to feel the moment of demolition and catch Cherokee, working the wheel and the gas pedal, it turns out to be easy. With any engine, he behaves quite predictable. Yes, and the steering settings are adequate: the hydraulicel does not interfere with it too much, the rabble is heavy with a growing speed, and there is always feedback on it. Well, and 3,42 turns from the stop until the stop is normal for the jeep.
On Solyark
Honest word as if I moved to another car. Here again, the steep and blind turn on the rise, I am inertia preparing to catch the car but no demolition of the feed happens! Cherokee confidently follows the specified trajectory. And if you add? Yes, the demolition occurs but somehow reluctantly and noticeably later than on a gasoline version. That is, on such a car in Kosoyram and Buaerakov, you can move much faster. What is the case?
I think not only that diesel Cherokee is actually a bit harder than its gasoline fellow. According to my feelings, a turbodiesel, working in a pair with a 5-speed ACP, remains in full harmony with the SELEC-TRAC II constant drive system. The torque of 460 nm makes it in the 4WD auto mode for some moments before blocking the clutch and connect the front wheels. As a result, you get greater stability when driving in difficult conditions. With a certain stretch, it can be said that the diesel Cherokee is more off-road than gasoline. But with V6 under the hood you can develop a little more speed on the track.
Finally, I must say a few words about the Turbodiezer itself. He is not known for the first year, but now it is thoroughly finalized. First, the motor became quieter, vibrations were almost completely disappeared, which were previously felt in the cabin. Secondly, his power grew up on 27 forces, and the torque increased at once at 100 Nm. In essence, this is a new engine at the same volume. Moreover, a very economical engine, notice. Total stuff
According to the running qualities, the new Jeep Cherokee differs from the previous generation car, and not only thanks to the motor and transmission settings. Before, I remember, the long moves of the pendants were struck. Together with short swings, they provided an SUV excellent patency. Somehow drove on it along the bottom of the half-minded river, without much difficulty overcoming half-meter boulders, when two wheels were postponed at once. A sufficiently hard carrying body with a frame implaned in it allowed to feel quite confident at the same time.
And happy new car body rigidity has under the hood even more powerful powertrains and still capable of off-road feats of all-wheel drive system. But the suspension were different. Behind, for example, has a new 5-link. As a result, the car became more maneuverable, and comfortable. Body rolls in turns to a much lesser degree, ie, the suspension have become more stringent, rather more elastic. But these cars Settings naturally led to a decrease in their moves. As a result, it is not just came to breakdowns at a decent, though the speed. That is, with the usual traffic trouble the new Cherokee copes easily, but on the roads should be careful anyway to move slowly, be careful. Commensurate with obstacles vehicle capabilities. However, I do not think that a new generation of Cherokee will get for assault absolutely bear corners. And for regular attacks on nature or trips on country roads to the cottage or on the same shore of Lake Seliger, his abilities enough.
But the Cherokee received two care system while descending the slope Hill Descent Control, and assistance when lifting Hill Start Assist. The first (known from the older model Grand Cherokee) is activated at reduced transmission and does not allow the car to accelerate at a downward motion. The second does not allow him to roll back for two seconds, which is enough to move the foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal.
I probably left to say that the car is worth 51 600 dollars. While the dollar is not too much stronger, the price in rubles looks competitive.
II. Dodge Journey Stubbornness him to face
Avenger, Caliber, Nitro, and now Journey and Dodge brand literally gushes novelties of the last two years. I think that Journey will not come to an end. And it is remarkable: each of these models is original, has its purpose, and at the same time, each represents a fresh corporate identity. I like this expression of aggressive power, stubbornness and audacity (if not arrogance) on the face of a large grille front end with chrome crosshair and a ram's head in the center.
In this row, Journey looks perhaps a little more modest fellow and right, it is still the benefit of a large family (or corporate) car. But, agree, and he will not refuse expressiveness: developed bumpers and embossed wheeled arches, under which there may be at least 19-inch alloy wheels; The roof line bevelled to the feed, the rear spoiler and the roofs on the roof all testifies to the readiness of the car to the distant and fast throws.
The manufacturer calls him a crossover, and I will not argue. Although with the same success, it can be called a minivan with a wagon of increased passability. Or just a 5-door hatchback. In any case, the 182-millimeter ground clearance, powerful gasoline engines, and the external appearance as a whole indicate some special features of the car. However, these features in our case are limited to the type of drive. Annex and all-wheel drive versions of Journey are also supplied to the US market. On Russian only front-wheel drive, in any case. Nevertheless, the car does not save before the bad road, which I was quite convinced of the way from Seliger to Moscow. Of course, above Journey, unlike Cherokee, we are not messenger, did not make it jump through the puddles or jumping around the bumps is not for that it is intended. His main task with comfort to deliver a family (or a warm company) from point A to point B. And therefore a separate conversation deserves a salon.
Cabin company Inside Journey warm, light, spacious and cozy. This is in general words. But attention deserves just in particular. First of all: the salon can be five or seventeen. In the first case, the owner has at its disposal a luggage compartment of 784 liters (with folded rear seats 1562 liters). If you order a third row, then the compartment volume can be varied in the range from 167 to 1461 liters. And in any case in the cabin you will find a lot of extra places for the boot. It is not only a cooled glove box, compartment in the armrest between the front seats and the niche (with the cup holders) in each of the four side doors. There are also decent (273x22 mM) compartment under the front passenger seat (in rich, truth, R / T configuration). And in the standard two compartments in the floor between the first and second row seats are placed in them, for example, six cans with ice, in addition, these compartments are equipped with locking lids and removable washable inserts.
At the driver's seat you can get very comfortable. The steering column is adjustable and tilted, and by departure. The seat also has a sufficient amount of adjustments, including the degree of lumbar backpage, and it is moderately soft, the pillow and the back of the optimal length. Well, and the lack of pronounced lateral support in this car is perceived as properly you are required for the purpose and preservation to take to the place of households or colleagues, and not win the rally. Having done the entire 400-kilometer path behind the wheel, I'm not tired completely.
Since we are talking about the seats, it is worth saying about the innovation called Child Booster. These are built into the second row of seats designed for children weighing from 22 to 39 kg, which increase the landing by 102 mm, so that you can use regular seat belts. If the child is still too small, you can use another system that allows you to move the second row of seats to the first thing that the child always be near and at the same time was in his own armor and in a safe place. The spherical mirror in the cerema allows you to keep track of what is happening behind. Pleases the eye and the instrument shield with intelligible devices and a very original two-color backlit. The central console can be married to a color 7-inch display: in principle, it is intended for GPS navigation, although the standard system is not yet available. But when moving with reversal, you can monitor what happens for the feed the picture comes from the camera included in the ParkView system. A very useful option, given the decent dimensions of the machine. You can also order an entertainment center for rear row passengers with an 8-inch display in the ceiling and a DVD player. In general, the ergonomics of Journey is well thought out, because it is nice to travel in it. Plus to that exceeding noise insulation. True, at the speeds of over 120 km / h, the whistle from the side mirrors comes to the ears. And, to my surprise, from somewhere in front of the Salon, the oncoming wind was selected, from where I, I confess, did not understand. However, a weak breeze is not annoying, but begetted. In addition, the climatic installation perfectly coped with its task.
You can, perhaps, tell us about the decoration and equipment of the salon. However, the flashlight, four 12-volt sockets and other things can tell the seller in any dealer center. It's time for me to move to the movements of the novelties. On the road
First, to be clearer, in what conditions the Dodge Journey test drive passed, a few words about the roads. I do not know how you, dear reader, and the Russian tracks do not cease to amaze. Not in the sense of natural beauties around, but in the sense of their quality and arrangement. How much I go, so much amazing. We annually lose on such roads of the life and health of many thousands of people, a huge number of cars and trillions of rubles. But the matter if essentially further declarations, episodic construction and small (against the scale of the country's scale) works on the repair and reconstruction of highways, does not.
From the shore of Seliger to Ostashkov, and further to Rzhev Road, according to Russian standards, quite demolished. Of course, sites with ughabs, pits and pitches, as after the bombing, is enough. But go through them, and on a decent speed, you can. Do it on Journey is very nice. The crossover (well, let the crossover be, since the manufacturer insists) as if it does not notice the small flaws of the canvas, flying along it, like a yacht in small ripples on the water. The suspension is definitely set up on a comfortable ride, they are enough energy-intensive, even in the time of unnoticed on time, it never reached breakdowns. At the same time, I would not call them unnecessarily soft: the body in turns is cubed, but not significantly. In this regard, Journey is not American, but the European car.
In those places where they had to actively maneuver, the steering was well shifted. Its settings are quite clear, you always imagine where exactly the front wheels are watching, and at what angle you should turn the ram to drive around the next obstacle. The steering wheel has almost three turns from the stop until it stops, so from time to time I had to work hard. But so safer, more acute steering family car for nothing. And the hydraulicer works correctly enough. Our Journey led a 2.7-liter V6 in a pair with a 6-speed ACP. And I liked this combination definitely. 185 forces are enough to feel on the road confidently, and the transmission automatic transfers almost imperceptibly. That is, and the power unit is configured for comfortable movement. It does not mean that he is a boring machine quite frisky and cheerful in behavior. Of course, the impressive accelerating dynamics or skill sideways enter the turn from it it is pointless, other models exist for such exercises. But the Journey can go quickly and hold onto the road. In addition, the front-wheel drive, the settings of all the mechanisms plus weight and dimensions make the car obedient and predictable in reactions that are not too serious errors in control. It can be said like this: the crossover reacts quite reluctantly to the wrong commands. As a last resort, the ESP stabilization system and an ERM stabilization system will come to the amendment or imbushed the Barank to help.
Yes, so as not to forget: Dodge Journey is also offered with a 4-cylinder 2,4-liter motor, aggregated with a 4-speed ACP. But, admitted, it was not possible to try it, maybe another time. But, returning to our small journey: no settings and security systems will help, if not to be extremely attentive and neat on our so-called federal tracks. Soon after Rzhev, I took it off to Novorizhskoye highway. Which can be considered a new Riga, and in general the highway, at a distance of about a hundred kilometers from Moscow. Further, I was driving from there, I turned to the DPS left at the post, and got on the usual two-way road. In my opinion, such highways are a national shame. The canvas of disgusting quality, uneven, with deep rings and sloppy pages, with barely distinguished marking, if anyone is available at all. And the movement is intense, a lot of long trucks from the West.
In general, even difficult Journey from time to time threw from side to side, like a gun in a storm. After all, it was necessary to enter the rut, then go to the operational space to overtake the next road train. That's when I wanted to have even more horses under the hood! Although I understand perfectly well, no matter how much it is, but not enough for all occasions. In truth, in civil, staff conditions, the power and moment in the V6 is quite enough. Yes, and the ACP was not a reason to blame in special non-historicalness. But after all, on our roads as in war.
I overtake the wagon on the descent from the hillock. It seems that the area is perfectly visible ahead, and everything calculated the speed and time of the maneuver. So no: due to going about in a semi-kilometer, the truck suddenly emerges the master on the nine! He can not, he is forbidden, but he does it! I squeeze everything possible from the motor, and the driver of the tractor turned out to be a person sane and, seeing the situation, slightly slowed down so that I could complete the maneuver, having worked out with the liberal. And Journey turned out to be well done. And after half an hour he helped us with a colleague when it took all the power of brake calipers to stay on the descent from the slide where the car unfolded with a dense counter-stream. However, such cases are only ordinary episodes on our tracks. I once again caught myself thinking that while in our country would not actually deal with the construction of modern high-band trails that do not have intersections with secondary roads on the same level, with special congresses, etc., there is no particular conversation about security. sense.
But, frankly, this trip still gave me pleasure. And at the entrance to the capital, I generally, you can say, rested behind the wheel, watching only in order not to run into a police ambush.
On the market
Dodge Journey, with all its originality, is included in a fairly dense market segment, where he has a lot of competitors and Ford S-Max, and Opel Zafira, and Mitsubishi Grandis, and others. In the asset, Journey has a fairly decent basic equipment and, while the dollar has not been expensive again, the competitive price is from $ 34,300. In my opinion, and judging by the two-time increase in sales of cars Dodge on the Russian market, the prospects for the model are good. It is likely that not only private, but also corporate car owners may be interested in this car.
I think we will return to Journey on the pages of Ai, and tell about the cost of ownership in comparison with competitors.
Oleg Osipov
