19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2018 Dodge Journey 3.6L 6-cyl, it’s a figure that’s accepted rather than celebrated by its target audience. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for its Prius-like efficiency; it’s a budget-friendly, three-row crossover aimed at families who prioritize space and affordability over advanced fuel-saving technology. Understanding this context is important before dismissing the Journey’s fuel economy quickly.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Dodge Journey 3.6L 6-cyl break down to 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic, where the Journey’s naturally aspirated V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission work harder, consuming more fuel. The highway number, while seemingly reasonable, can be sensitive to driving style and load. A fully loaded Journey with passengers and cargo, driven at higher speeds, will likely see a drop in real-world highway MPG. The 3.6L V6 engine offers adequate power for merging and passing, but it’s not a particularly efficient engine by modern standards, especially when paired with the older six-speed automatic when compared to the newer 8- and 9-speed units found in some competitors. Owners looking at JOURNEY MPG across all years will see a fairly consistent performance across this generation.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Dodge Journey 3.6L 6-cyl will be $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive, what type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving and frequent use of the AC can also significantly impact your real-world spending on fuel. This $2,300 figure should be viewed as a baseline for budgeting, although a conservative estimate given the rise in fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized rating, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers report figures, typically falling between 15 MPG and 22 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and weather conditions can all play a role. Owners who primarily drive in urban environments with heavy traffic may find it difficult to achieve the EPA’s projected city MPG. Conversely, drivers who frequently take long highway trips at moderate speeds can sometimes exceed the EPA’s highway rating. Keeping detailed fuel logs and tracking driving habits can help owners understand their vehicle’s specific fuel consumption patterns.

How it compares

When stacked against other three-row crossovers in the 2018 model year, the Dodge Journey’s fuel economy lags behind some competitors. For instance, the Honda Pilot, with its 3.5L V6 and available nine-speed automatic, achieves a combined EPA rating of 22 MPG. The Toyota Highlander, another popular choice, boasts a combined rating of 23 MPG with its 3.5L V6. Even some larger SUVs, like the Chevrolet Traverse with its 3.6L V6 (but more modern transmission), manages around 21 MPG combined. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up to significant savings at the pump over the lifespan of the vehicle. This is a trade-off many Journey buyers consciously make, choosing lower upfront costs and greater practicality over better fuel efficiency. You can find all Dodge fuel economy data on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are important for maximizing fuel economy in the Journey. Avoid aggressive starts and hard stops, as these consume significantly more fuel. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed can also contribute to better mileage.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and tire pressure checks, is essential for optimal fuel efficiency. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule can help ensure the engine is running efficiently.

Minimize the use of accessories like air conditioning and roof racks when they are not needed. The AC compressor places a load on the engine, reducing fuel economy, especially in city driving. Similarly, roof racks increase aerodynamic drag, which impacts fuel consumption at higher speeds.

Consider using cruise control on highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed, especially on relatively flat terrain, can help prevent unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, improving fuel economy. However, be mindful of traffic conditions and avoid using cruise control in heavy traffic or hilly areas.