What engines do Dodge Journeys have?
The Dodge Journey was powered by three main engines during its production: a base 2.4-liter inline-four, an earlier 3.5-liter V6, and the later 3.6-liter Pentastar V6.
Engine options across the Journey’s lifecycle
Below is a concise overview of the three powertrains that appeared in the Journey, including general output figures and typical availability across model years.
- 2.4L inline-four (Tigershark World Engine) – Available from launch and used in early models; output about 173 hp with roughly 166 lb-ft of torque, generally paired with a four-speed automatic in the earliest configurations.
- 3.5L V6 – An early upgrade option in the lineup (appearing in the initial years); output around 235 hp with about 232–235 lb-ft of torque, offering stronger performance than the base engine.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 – Introduced for the 2011 model year and used through the end of Journey production; output around 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, typically paired with a six-speed automatic for improved acceleration and refinement.
Note: Exact numbers can vary slightly by model year, drivetrain (FWD vs AWD), and market specifications. The 3.6L Pentastar generally represents the peak in power and refinement for the Journey.
Engine details by era
Early Journey era (2009–2010/2011)
In the initial years, buyers could choose between the 2.4L I4 and the 3.5L V6. The 2.4L produced about 173 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5L V6 offered significantly more power, typically around 235 hp and roughly 232–235 lb-ft of torque. These engines were commonly paired with a four-speed automatic transmission in earlier configurations.
Mid-life refresh (2011–2019)
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 became the standard upgrade for most trims starting with the 2011 model year, delivering about 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smoother performance and improved highway capability compared with the earlier engines.
What this means for buyers and drivers
For everyday city driving and light hauling, the 2.4L I4 remains a modest option. If more capability is needed, the 3.5L V6 offers a noticeable jump in power. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is the preferred choice for those seeking stronger acceleration, better highway merging, and overall refinement—especially on all-wheel-drive models or when towing is involved.
Summary
Across its production run, the Dodge Journey offered three primary powertrains: a base 2.4L inline-four, an early 3.5L V6, and the late-generation 3.6L Pentastar V6. The lineup evolved to emphasize the Pentastar engine’s balance of power and efficiency, with the 2.4L and 3.5L serving as earlier alternatives. Production lasted from 2008 to 2019, encompassing a broad range of configurations for different markets and trims.
