2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit

Four years ago, a complete redesign saw Jeep's senior SUV take a big trip uptown with major improvements in overall comfort, interior quality and styling. Adding an eight-speed automatic transmission and a fuel-saving diesel engine option last year further boosted the appeal of what had already become one of our favorite midsize SUVs. That's still true for the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which sees just minor changes to its feature content.
The Grand Cherokee's availability of diesel power gives it a sizable fuel economy advantage over nearly every one of its rivals. And you won't be sacrificing much in the way of performance either, as its tidal wave of low-end torque means you've got plenty of muscle for towing or venturing off road. The downsides are that the diesel engine is more expensive than the JGC's gasoline V8 engine (our math tells us that difference is made up at the pump in about 35,000 miles) and that the vehicle doesn't seem to ride and handle quite as well with the diesel.
Given that the current-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee is notably more comfortable and civilized in daily driving than older versions, one might naturally assume that this SUV with a long-standing reputation for off-road prowess has gone soft. Worry not, outdoor recreation and sports fans, as the 2015 Grand Cherokee still has plenty of cred. Jeep offers a few different four-wheel-drive systems to choose from, and there's even an optional off-road package that features an adjustable air suspension that allows you to change the ride height from 6.6 inches for easy entry into low-clearance garages to 11.3 inches for maximum ground clearance while tackling rough terrain. If it's towing you're interested in, the JGC has you covered with the diesel or V8 engines and an impressive towing capacity of more than 7,000 pounds.
Tally it all up and you're left with one of the best picks for a do-everything midsize SUV. The Grand Cherokee's closest competitor, the Toyota 4Runner, shares the Jeep's off-road aptitude, but it doesn't offer a V8 or diesel option, and its interior simply isn't as nice. The price tag on the JGC, however, typically exceeds that of the 4Runner or popular three-row crossover SUVs like the Ford Explorer or Hyundai Santa Fe. In that sense, the Grand Cherokee is similar to the Volkswagen Touareg, which also has a classy, well-trimmed interior and the availability of a diesel engine. The VW is tuned more for on-road performance rather than off-road pursuits, however. Yes, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee will likely cost you more than other midsize SUVs you may be considering, but given its welcoming cabin and wide-ranging strengths, we're fairly certain that you won't mind paying a little more for it.

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Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a five-passenger midsize SUV that comes in six trim levels: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit and SRT. Each is available with rear-drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), except the high-performance SRT model, which is 4WD only.
Standard equipment for the Laredo includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, foglights, keyless ignition and entry, full power accessories, dual-zone air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a 5-inch touchscreen, a CD player, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.
The optional 23E package adds roof rails, an eight-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar) and satellite radio. Springing for the available Security and Convenience Group gets you a power liftgate, remote engine start, a 115-volt household-style power outlet, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The Laredo with 4WD can also be had with the Off-Road Adventure I Group (skid plates, a two-speed transfer case, Selec-Terrain system, hill descent control, full-size spare tire and on/off-road tires). Individual option highlights for the Laredo include 18-inch wheels, a sunroof and an 8.4-inch touchscreen display (Uconnect) with HD radio and voice commands.
The Altitude is essentially a Laredo with the 23E and Security and Convenience Group options along with body-color grille, cladding and lower fascias, 20-inch gloss black wheels, gloss back exterior accents, chrome exhaust outlets and black suede upholstery.
The Limited trim level also includes all the features of the 23E and Security and Convenience Group options along with added chrome exterior trim, 18-inch wheels, remote start, an anti-theft system, leather seating, an eight-way power passenger seat (with four-way power lumbar), driver memory settings, heated rear seats, a cargo cover, rear USB charging ports, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors and a nine-speaker premium audio system.
Optional packages for the Limited include the aforementioned Off-Road Adventure I Group, the Off-Road Adventure II Group (similar to I but adds an air suspension system and a locking rear differential) and the Luxury Group II package (panoramic sunroof, automatic wipers, xenon headlights, automatic high-beam control, upgraded leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel). The 8.4-inch touchscreen is still optional on the Limited, but can be further enhanced with a navigation system.
The Overland model is like the Limited but further adds 20-inch wheels, a towing package, power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, the touchscreen with the navigation system and the contents of the Luxury Group II package.
The Advanced Technology Group is available for the Limited and Overland. It includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning (with crash mitigation), blind spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection.
The top-of-the-line Grand Cherokee Summit gets you polished 20-inch wheels, illuminated door sills, an acoustic windshield, active noise-cancelling technology, real wood cabin trim, front parking sensors, the Advanced Technology Group and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. You can further deck out the Summit with the Platinum Series package that includes a variety of exterior trim enhancements.
The high-performance SRT model is equipped like the Summit model minus a few standard features, such as the panoramic sunroof and 19-speaker audio system. The additional unique performance features include an exclusive V8 engine, 20-inch forged wheels with performance tires, LED running lights, an adaptive suspension, performance-tuned steering, Brembo brakes, a limited-slip rear differential, leather/suede sport seats and carbon-fiber cabin accents. Optional on the SRT is the Red Vapor package, which features black chrome wheels, gloss black exterior accents and silver, black and red cabin accents.
A Blu-ray-capable rear-seat entertainment system (with twin seat-mounted displays and HDMI and RCA inputs) is optional for the Limited, Overland, Summit and SRT. The towing package that's standard on the Overland and Summit models is available as an option on the Laredo, Limited and SRT trims.

Powertrains and Performance

Every 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee except for the SRT version comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 with 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This is the only engine you can get on the Laredos, while the Limited, Overland and Summit models offer two additional engines: a 5.7-liter V8 (360 hp and 390 lb-ft) and a turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V6 (240 hp and 420 lb-ft). The SRT comes exclusively with a 6.4-liter V8 that produces 475 hp and 470 lb-ft. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board.
Non-SRT Grand Cherokees offer three available 4WD systems: the single-speed, light-duty Quadra-Trac I system (for the Laredos), Quadra-Trac II with a two-speed transfer case (optional on the Laredo E, standard on Limited and Overland) and Quadra-Drive II with a rear electronic limited-slip differential (optional on Limited and Overland, standard on Summit). An adaptive air suspension (Quadra-Lift) and a driver-selectable traction control system that adjusts to different terrain are also available (optional on the 4WD Limited, standard on 4WD Overland and Summit). The Grand Cherokee SRT features a specialized all-wheel-drive system tuned more for high-performance driving than off-road use.
Equipped with the standard 3.6-liter V6, the Grand Cherokee has EPA fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway) with four-wheel drive and 20 mpg combined (17/25) with rear-wheel drive (2WD). At the test track, a Grand Cherokee Overland V6 with 4WD sprinted from zero to 60 mph in a fairly quick 7.9 seconds. Maximum towing capacity for a properly equipped V6 Grand Cherokee is 6,200 pounds.
Jeep Grand Cherokees equipped with the optional 5.7-liter V8 get an estimated 16 mpg combined (14 city/20 highway) with 4WD and 17 mpg combined (14/22) with 2WD. Towing capacity for Grand Cherokees with the 5.7-liter V8 tops out at 7,400 pounds. Fuel economy is vastly improved when you select the diesel V6 engine, which is EPA-rated at 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 city) with 4WD and 25 mpg combined (22/30) with rear-wheel drive. Impressively, the towing capacity with the diesel is the same as the 5.7-liter V8. During Edmunds testing, a Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD with the diesel engine sprinted from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds.
The 2015 Grand Cherokee SRT returns an estimated 15 mpg combined (13 city/19 highway), while its towing capacity stands at 7,200 pounds.

Safety

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, hill ascent control, hill descent control (optional on Laredo) front side airbags, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. The Advanced Technology Group (optional on the Limited and standard on Overland, Summit and SRT) includes forward collision warning (with crash mitigation), blind spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection and lane departure warning. Upper trims also come with a rearview camera and park assist features.
In Edmunds brake testing, a diesel 4WD Jeep Grand Cherokee stopped from 60 mph in 121 feet, a respectable distance for this class, while a 4WD Grand Cherokee with the gasoline V6 needed 133 feet, which is longer than average. Meanwhile, the last SRT model we tested stopped in 109 feet, a very short distance but about what we'd expect of a high-performance SUV fitted with summer performance tires and high-performance Brembo brakes.
In government crash tests, the 4WD Grand Cherokee earned five stars (out of a possible five) for overall crash protection, and the 2WD version earned an overall rating of four stars. Both rated five stars for total frontal crash protection and five stars for total side crash protection. The reason for the one-star difference in overall rating is the 2WD version's slightly lower rollover rating.
In testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Jeep Grand Cherokee received the highest possible rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength crash tests. It earned a second-lowest "Marginal" rating in the small-overlap frontal-offset test. The Grand Cherokee's seat/head restraint design was rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.

Interior Design and Special Features

Even in the lower trim levels, the Grand Cherokee's interior boasts excellent fit and finish. The dash houses a standard configurable 7-inch screen that can be used to display a wide range of information. We're especially fond of the optional center 8.4-inch touchscreen and highly recommend it. It features an easy-to-use interface and includes a WiFi hotspot and smartphone app integration (including media apps from Pandora and iHeartRadio). It also houses the navigation system if the vehicle is so equipped. Sometimes it takes a few too many touch inputs to make climate control adjustments through the touchscreen, but apart from that minor complaint, the Grand Cherokee has one of the most user-friendly cabins in this class.
While the Grand Cherokee has no third-row seat option, there's ample room for a family of four or five, and you can order up a significant amount of luxury ambience, including ventilated front seats and a dual-screen, Blu-ray-capable rear entertainment system with an HDMI input. Backseat passengers should be pretty comfortable, as the Grand Cherokee provides considerably more rear legroom than the Toyota 4Runner. With the rear seats in place, the cargo bay measures 36.3 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded down, the Jeep has 68.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

Driving Impressions

Even when equipped with the base gasoline V6 engine, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee is plenty powerful. It also provides a quiet, comfortable ride and commendable stability around turns. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a great ally, as it makes good use of the V6's power and shifts very smoothly to boot. All in all, most shoppers should be quite satisfied with the base-engine Grand Cherokee.
If you're looking for better fuel economy, though, the diesel-powered V6 is an interesting option to consider. Plus, the diesel's high torque output makes it ideal for big-league towing jobs and off-road use. Around town, the diesel V6 can sometimes lurch in stop-and-go traffic, and it clatters quite a bit. But once it's up to speed, it's exceptionally quiet. Perhaps the biggest downside of the diesel is the sheer weight of this heavy-duty engine; diesel Grand Cherokees weigh considerably more than other versions. This added heft over the front wheels has a negative impact on the way the Jeep steers and handles -- it simply doesn't feel as precise or balanced when going around turns. In addition, our diesel Grand Cherokee test vehicle, which was equipped with the optional Quadra-Lift air suspension, wasn't especially comfortable or smooth-riding on rough city streets (though it showed good composure over larger bumps and ruts on the highway).
If fuel economy is not of particular concern, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is a tower of power that accelerates and stops at rates that will impress even the most seasoned sports car driver. It's a sleeper performance vehicle if ever there was one, though its run-flat summer tires and aggressive suspension tuning result in a fairly stiff ride on city streets and highways alike.
Off-road, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is at the top of the mountain for its class. Trail obstacles and steep hills are easily dealt with regardless of which engine you choose (although the SRT version is built primarily for paved-road driving), thanks to the advanced four-wheel-drive systems and the Jeep's generous ground clearance.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Hellcat: Yes Please

You have got to be kidding me.  By now unless you have been living under a rock, everyone knows what a Hellcat is.  Well Jeep just announced they are going to produce a Hellcat version of the Grand Cherokee.

Jeep boss Mike Manley has said on video that the JGC Hellcat will arrive before the end of next year. Specs aren't known, but it seems likely that the Jeep Hellcat will share the blown 6.2-liter V8 used in the Charger and Challenger Hellcats. We've also heard rumors the Track hawk name could be used for this vehicle. In those applications, the beastly Hemi pumps out 707 manic horsepower.

An eight-speed automatic transmission developed by ZF will be the only unit offered. While Dodge’s Hellcats are rear-wheel drive, the Track hawk will ship with all-wheel drive, and that’s where the situation begins to get tricky. Car & Driver previously reported the Grand Cherokee’s all-wheel drive system can’t handle the Hellcat’s massive 707-horsepower and 650-lb-ft. output. Developing a new all-wheel drive system for a low-volume model has been ruled out for obvious cost reasons, so the eight-cylinder might have to be electronically detuned before it can be dropped in the Grand Cherokee’s engine bay.

In a separate interview, Manley revealed the on-again, off-again Wrangler-based pickup truck has finally been given the green light for production. The truck will be based on the next-generation Wrangler that’s expected to arrive in late 2017, and the two models will be assembled side by side in Toledo, Ohio. Further details will be announced later this month when Fiat-Chrysler publishes.

Find out what else they have cooking at Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM Plano 4500 West Plano Parkway Plano, TX or give us a call at 972-867-6000 today!

2016 Dodge Hellcat Crazy Colors

I don’t know about you but I hate your traditional boring colors, especially when it comes to muscle cars, it’s always red or black or red and black.  No creativity to speak of, until now.

This month Dodge has started offering a new stripe option only available on the most powerful muscle cars.  The SRT Hellcat stripes are now available to order on the top-of-the-line, 707-horsepower versions of both the Charger and Challenger. The dual full-length stripes run all the way up from the front lip, over the grille, up the hood, accentuating the NACA duct, along the roof, down the trunk lid, across the rear spoiler, and down the rear bumper. They feature a carbon-fiber texture, and can be ordered with any of eleven colors for a little extra.  Along with the stripes, Dodge has also announced that it is extending the availability of the exclusive Plum Crazy color – which was originally scheduled to expire at the end of December – for another month. The throwback hue can be ordered on Charger and Challenger models ranging from the SXT through the R/T models all the way up to the SRT 392 and Hellcat.

Here is the press release.

Given the exceptionally strong demand for Plum Crazy, the Dodge team is responding immediately to enthusiast demand and has extended the production of one of its most desired historic paint colors for the Dodge Challenger and Charger.  Initially, ordering for Plum Crazy was scheduled to end in December 2015. But exceptionally strong customer demand, plus the opportunity to pair this legendary high-impact hue with the new SRT Hellcat stripe, means dealers will be able to continue ordering the high-impact, highly popular color through January.
Since 1970, desire for this heritage hue continues to get stronger than ever – as the signature paint color is directly associated with high collectability and the famed "Mopar-or-no-car" legacy. Today, Dodge is offering Plum Crazy across the widest performance range of Challenger and Charger models ever.

For more information, come by Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM Plano 4500 West Plano Parkway Plano, TX or give us a call at 972-867-6000 today!

2016 Dodge Challenger R/T

So you're thinking about the 2016 Dodge Challenger, eh? Here's what you need to know first and foremost: It's awesome. It may not be the most hyped American muscle coupe this year and it's certainly not the most agile. And yet, from the surprisingly stout base V6 all the way up to the nuclear option (otherwise known as the 707-hp Hellcat), the Challenger is a modern classic.
For Dodge fans, our stating that the Challenger is indeed awesome probably comes more as an affirmation than as a surprise. It's been a hit with consumers ever since the latest generation debuted back for the 2008-'09 model years. But while the muscle car styling and menu of powerful engines are of obvious appeal, what you might not realize is how practical the Challenger is. Adults can fit in the backseat. It has a trunk a full-size sedan could be proud of. The ride quality is comfortable. The features list is packed full of comfort, convenience, entertainment and high-tech safety items. Even the V6 gets decent fuel economy. The Challenger is a car that will please whether you're taking the kids to school, driving across the country or participating in a burnout contest.
It's true that the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro or 2016 Ford Mustang are better suited for hustling around tight turns, and both benefit from fresher-looking designs. Both can also be had in convertible form, something the Challenger does not offer. On the other hand, though, Chevy and Ford don't offer four-door sedan versions, which is essentially what the Dodge Charger is. Furthermore, neither of those other American coupes allow you to say to your friends: "Yep, it's got more power than a Lamborghini Aventador." So rest assured, good muscle car shopper: The 2016 Dodge Challenger is awesome.

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Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2016 Dodge Challenger is a five-seat, two-door coupe available in a dizzying number of trims and variations. It's quite possible that the U.S. tax code is easier to understand.
The lineup starts with the humble V6-powered SXT that comes standard with 18-inch wheels, automatic headlights, LED "halo" running lights, heated mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, cruise control, automatic dual-zone climate control, rear air vents, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, a six-way power driver seat, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, two-tone cloth upholstery (black with beige houndstooth), an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a 5-inch touchscreen and a six-speaker sound system with an SD card slot, an auxiliary audio jack and a USB port.
From here, you can opt for the Cold Weather Group package that adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a more powerful alternator. The Super Sport Group adds 20-inch wheels, a shorter rear-axle ratio, steering wheel shift paddles and performance brakes. The Sound Group I includes a six-speaker Alpine sound system.
The V8-powered R/T differs with its 20-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, deck-lid spoiler and rearview camera.
The R/T Shaker trim adds a "Shaker" hood with a large cold air induction scoop extending through the hood as well as the Super Track Pak performance items (see below) and special two-tone leather seats with Shaker logos.
The R/T Scat Pack trim adds the larger 392 V8, the Super Track Pak option (see below), Brembo performance brakes (four-piston fronts), an upgraded exhaust and a heated sport steering wheel.
Still with us? Going with the "Plus" versions of the SXT, R/T and R/T Shaker gets you the Cold Weather and Sound Group I packages, plus foglights, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, smartphone app integration (Uconnect Access), voice commands, satellite radio and emergency communications functions. The SXT Plus also has the 20-inch wheels and rearview camera.
You can also add the Sound Group II package that tacks on a nine-speaker sound system to the "Plus" trims. The R/T Scat Pack's Leather Interior Group adds the leather seating, ventilation and power-adjustable steering wheel as well. There's also the Premium Sound Group that adds an 18-speaker Harman Kardon sound system to the Plus and Scat Pack trims, while the Blacktop package adds blackout-themed exterior trim and a few other extra features from other packages.
The optional Super Track Pak (SXT, SXT Plus, R/T, R/T Plus) adds 20-inch wheels, performance tuning (steering, suspension and brakes), a shorter axle ratio and performance reporting functions in the trip computer (0-60 timer, G loads, etc.).
To all of the above trims, the Driver Convenience Group adds bi-xenon headlights, rear parking sensors, power-folding mirrors, a blind-spot warning system, rear cross-path warning and remote ignition (automatic only).
There's also a 392 Scat Pack Shaker trim level that essentially mixes the R/T Scat Pack's performance elements with the R/T Shaker Plus hood intake and extra equipment.
The Challenger SRT 392 has the same engine as the Scat Pack and comes standard with the same equipment provided by the R/T Plus trim level and Driver Convenience Group package. It also gets upgraded Brembo brakes (six-piston fronts), forged alloy wheels, a special air intake, a high-performance adaptive suspension, sportier power steering settings, upgraded leather upholstery, extra vehicle information in the trip computer and the 18-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Available on all but the SXT and R/T trims is the Technology Group that adds automatic wipers and high-beam headlight control, adaptive cruise control (automatic transmission only) and a forward collision warning system.
And finally, we come to the SRT Hellcat. It is equipped very similarly to the SRT 392, but adds a supercharged V8 engine, a different steering system and the automatic wipers and high beam control. It does not have foglights.
A sunroof and navigation system are optional on all Challenger trims, and Dodge offers a variety of retro-look side- and hood-stripe options as well. New SRT model buyers also get a one-day course at an SRT Driving Experience school.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2016 Dodge Challenger SXT models are powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 305 hp and 268 pound-feet of torque. Like every Challenger, it is rear-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission available. In Edmunds performance testing, it went from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, which is quick, but a half-second slower than an automatic Mustang EcoBoost. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 23 mpg combined (19 city/30 highway), which is decent given the Challenger SXT's size and power.
The R/T models get a 5.7-liter V8 good for 375 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission, or 372 hp and 400 lb-ft with the optional eight-speed automatic. With the manual, a Challenger R/T went from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds in our tests -- that's about a full second slower than the Mustang GT. We have not tested one with the Shaker hood. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg combined (15/23) with the manual and 19 (16/25) with the automatic.
The Scat Pack and SRT 392 have a 6.4-liter V8 that produces 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque regardless of whether you get the standard six-speed manual or optional eight-speed automatic. Expect this engine to bring the Challenger from zero to 60 in the mid-4-second range. EPA fuel economy is 18 mpg (15/25) with the automatic and 17 (14/23) with the manual.
The Hellcat has a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 good for a mammoth 707 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. It gets stouter six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions. In Edmunds testing it went from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with the manual (essentially, the rear tires are overwhelmed by the power) and 4.1 seconds with the automatic and its launch control function. Given that power and the omnipresent temptation to use it, fuel economy should be substantially worse than the EPA estimates of 16 mpg (13/22) with the automatic and 16 mpg (13/21) with the manual.

Safety

Every 2016 Dodge Challenger comes standard with antilock brakes (upgraded on certain trims), traction and stability control, front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag. A rearview camera is standard on the "Plus" trims, SRT 392 and Hellcat. Blind-spot, rear cross-traffic and forward collision warning systems are available.
In Edmunds brake testing, a Challenger SXT Plus with the Super Track Pak and summer tires came to a stop from 60 mph in 104 feet, which is excellent. An R/T with the Super Track Pak was actually longer at 111 feet. A Hellcat stopped in 108 feet.
In government crash tests, the Challenger received five out of five stars for overall and side crash protection, and four stars for frontal protection.

Interior Design and Special Features

Last year's redesign gave the Challenger the stylish cabin it always deserved. A driver-centric theme is evident in the canted center console and configurable central dash display. Automatic-transmission cars sport a T-handle that recalls the selector used in the original 1970s Challenger, while the chunky baseball-like manual shift knob is pretty cool in its own right. Moreover, the small-diameter, well-contoured steering wheel makes for a pleasant interface between car and driver. Overall materials quality is very good, and the dash features handsome metallic accents. Plus, you can now get the cabin in a color other than all-black, with handsome two-tone options available in cloth and leather cabins.
Like other Dodges, the Challenger benefits from Chrysler's user-friendly touchscreen interfaces. While the base 5-inch system gets the job done, we highly recommend stepping up to the superb 8.4-inch, multifunction Uconnect touchscreen. It features large virtual buttons, an intuitive layout and fairly quick responses. We also appreciate the big knobs and buttons for the climate system and redundant infotainment controls (volume, tuning, menu selection, etc.).
All of the above makes the Challenger competitive, but interior space is where it utterly puts to shame its Ford and Chevy rivals. The backseat is remarkably roomy for two adults, with good headroom and decent legroom. By comparison, the Mustang and Camaro are really for small children only. There are even rear air vents, though the big rear pillars that also hamper visibility admittedly make it a tad claustrophobic.
The 16.2-cubic-foot trunk is on par with what you'd find in some full-size sedans -- and it gets bigger when you fold down the 60/40-split backseat. If you're looking for the most livable muscle coupe, this is it.

Driving Impressions

One of the 2016 Dodge Challenger's signature traits is its excellent ride quality. You could take this big coupe on an all-day road trip and feel as if you never left your sofa. The default suspension tuning of the base SXT is pretty floaty, however. As such, we recommend springing at least for the Super Track Pak option, as it includes firmer underpinnings. Otherwise, the Challenger actually handles rather well. This is especially true of the higher-performance versions, which provide a crisp, responsive and confident drive on a curvy road. Still, none of them will let you forget about the car's sheer bulk, especially on narrow roads. The Mustang and Camaro are more agile and less imposing around tighter turns, and can be fitted with wider and grippier tires. In that way, the Challenger is the most classic muscle car of them all.
With 305 horses on tap, we were pleasantly surprised at just how quick the base V6 is, and it can still smoke the tires and swing the tail out if you so desire. However, if such behavior is on your to-do list, one of the V8s is what you're going to want to achieve the full muscle car experience. The standard R/T's 5.7-liter V8 accelerates smartly and makes lovely noises, while the bigger 6.4-liter V8 (used in the Scat Pack and SRT 392) pumps up the performance to a degree that surpasses the Mustang GT. And then there's the 707-hp supercharged Hellcat, which can effectively be described as tire-smoking insanity. We hope buyers know a guy at the local tire shop, and if they don't, well, they will soon.
Although the manual transmission is easy to operate, it does have somewhat long throws and is saddled with an annoying foot-operated parking brake that can get in the way when you're sliding your foot from dead pedal to clutch. Having said that, this is a muscle car and opting for the manual is still the cooler way to go. Nevertheless, the eight-speed automatic is an excellent transmission that'll return better fuel economy (should you care) and actually snap off quicker shifts for those planning on running quarters on Grudge night.

2015 Dodge Journey SE

If you find "compact" crossover SUVs a little too compact, yet you don't really want to deal with the large footprint and compromised fuel economy of a larger crossover, Dodge might have the answer. The 2015 Journey is one of the few "tweener"-sized crossovers that could prove the just right size.
As a people-carrier, the Journey has a few things going for it. The available third row of seating is big enough for small children, and there's enough space for adults in the second row, too. There are also built-in booster seats available, which will save any parent lots of valuable child-loading time. Up front, the optional infotainment system is an excellent extra we recommend. It's easy to use, control, and it doesn't distract from the driving experience.
Unfortunately, the 2015 Dodge Journey has some drawbacks. Even though there are two available engines, neither is exceptional. The standard four-cylinder comes paired to an archaic four-speed automatic transmission and doesn't get the kind of fuel economy we've come to expect from class-leading crossovers and it is lackluster at best for providing passing power. The available V6 gives a healthy dose of acceleration in comparison, but in our extensive testing, it was still slower than most rivals with upgraded engines.  Along with this lack of power comes a disappointing driving experience. Driven around turns at a decent clip, the Journey suffers from quite a bit of body roll that saps driver confidence. All of our favorites in this class provide more engagement and stability.
One of those is the updated 2015 Honda CR-V. It may only have five seats, but it boasts lots of cargo space, an excellent ride and good fuel economy, too. The 2015 Mazda CX-5 and 2015 Ford Escape share many of the Honda's attributes but they're also a bit more entertaining to drive. If you require a third row, though, check out the Nissan Rogue as well as the larger 2015 Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. The Kia and Hyundai are a bit pricier but have plenty of cargo space to show for it. Overall, the Edmunds "C" Rated 2015 Dodge Journey isn't a bad choice for your family, but there are several excellent vehicles we'd choose instead.

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Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2015 Dodge Journey is available in five- and seven-passenger configurations. It is available in American Value Package (AVP), SE, SXT, Crossroad, Limited and R/T trim levels.
The American Value Package comes standard with 17-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, cruise control, dual-zone manual climate control, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a sliding and reclining second-row seat and a six-speaker sound system with a compact 4.3-inch touchscreen interface, a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB audio interface.
The SE adds tinted glass, roof rails and LED taillights. Moving up to the SXT adds 17-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, unique front/rear fascias, body-colored exterior mirrors, floor mats, a cargo cover and net and satellite radio. Moving up to the Crossroad gets you 19-inch wheels, chrome exterior accents, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a six-way power driver seat (with four-way lumbar adjustment), Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, an 8.4-inch touchscreen audio display, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a fold-flat front passenger seat with hidden storage bin.
The Limited adds a V6 engine as standard, remote start, automatic headlights, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a 115-volt power outlet. The R/T includes all of the Limited features (minus the roof rails) and adds a monochrome exterior treatment, unique 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, black perforated-leather upholstery with red stitching and a premium audio system.
Many of the features on the upper trim levels are available on lower trims via option packages. Other available features (depending on trim) include the Blacktop package (gloss black 19-inch wheels, grille and exterior trim), a sunroof, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a folding and reclining third-row seat, three-zone automatic climate control (with rear air-conditioning), integrated second-row child booster seats, a rear seat entertainment system, a navigation system (paired with the 8.4-inch touchscreen) and WiFi connectivity.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2015 Dodge Journey AVP, SE, SXT and Crossroad are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard, and you can only get front-wheel drive with this engine. EPA fuel economy ratings are 21 mpg combined (19 city/26 highway) ? which is definitely subpar for a four-cylinder crossover.
Optional on the SE, SXT, and Crossroad but standard on the Limited and R/T is a 3.6-liter V6. It's good for 283 hp and 260 lb-ft and is matched to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. We recorded a 7.8-second 0-60-mph time in a front-drive, V6-equipped Journey, which is about average for a V6 crossover in this price range. EPA estimated fuel economy for the V6 is 19 mpg combined (17/25) with front-wheel drive and 19 mpg combined (16/24) with all-wheel drive; both are below average for a V6-powered crossover in this price range.

Safety

Every 2015 Dodge Journey comes standard with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, active front head restraints, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag. Integrated second-row child booster seats and rear parking sensors are optional on every Journey. A rearview camera and rear parking sensors are available as an option on the SXT, Crossroad, Limited and R/T.
In Edmunds brake testing, a Journey V6 FWD came to a stop from 60 mph in 124 feet, an average performance for this class.
In government crash tests, the Journey received four out of five stars for overall crash protection, with four stars awarded for frontal-impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection. In crash testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Journey received the top score of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. Its seat and head restraint design was also rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.

Interior Design and Special Features

Though Dodge seldom has enjoyed a reputation for high-quality interiors, the 2015 Journey does boast pleasing materials and textures throughout the cabin and solid-looking assembly. The gauges and dashboard have a functional and contemporary design that wouldn't be out of place in any number of higher-priced vehicles.
There's almost universal acclaim for Dodge's available UConnect 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment interface. You won't find a system that's more straightforward to use or more pleasing to the eye, with large, readable typefaces and icons and sensible menus.
Families will appreciate the selection of clever storage places squirreled throughout the 2015 Journey's cabin, particularly the cubbyholes in the floor. There's a fair amount of legroom behind the front seats and the integrated child booster seats are a nice bonus. Also helping the family-oriented mission is the Journey's available third-row seat, which is bundled with a separate rear air-conditioner. This seat is far from adult-friendly, but if you need to take a couple extra kids to a T-ball game, it's handy.
Lower all the seats and the Journey coughs up 67.6 cubic feet of total cargo capacity, which is about average for this class, slightly less than the Kia Sorento and CR-V, for example, but more space than some other two-row compact crossovers.

Driving Impressions

The 2015 Dodge Journey has two personalities depending on which engine you choose. The four-cylinder engine is noisy and really doesn't have enough power to get this heavy crossover moving. The outdated four-speed automatic transmission that comes with this engine does the Journey no favors in the fuel economy department, either.
Accordingly, we'd avoid the four-cylinder entirely and step up to the 3.6-liter V6, which feels potent in any situation. Unfortunately, fuel economy is still below average, and the six-speed automatic transmission can be slow to respond when a downshift is needed.
Around town, the Journey provides a smooth ride. However, the steering is on the slow side, and you might find yourself having to make more hand movements than you would otherwise prefer. When driven harder through turns, the Journey's body leans noticeably. The Journey feels heavier than other compact SUVs and solid on the open highway, even over rough surfaces, but it doesn't inspire much confidence around corners.