19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the hand the 2016 Dodge Journey AWD 3.6L 6-cyl deals to families who need affordable space and available all-wheel drive without breaking the bank. This isn’t a vehicle bought for its efficiency; it’s a practical choice for those prioritizing value and practicality over fuel sipping.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway provide a clearer picture of where the Journey performs best. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, emphasizes the weight of the vehicle and the inherent inefficiencies of the six-speed automatic transmission. Highway driving, however, allows the 3.6L V6 to settle into a more economical rhythm, coming closer to its advertised potential. Remember these are estimates, your mileage will vary depending on driving style, load, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration will quickly diminish fuel economy, while a lighter foot and consistent speeds will yield better results.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Dodge Journey AWD 3.6L 6-cyl at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. While the national average fluctuates, this $2,300 estimate provides a benchmark for budgeting your transportation expenses. Drivers covering significantly more or fewer miles annually will naturally see a corresponding change in their fuel expenditure. Similarly, local fuel prices higher or lower than the national average will impact the final cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings provide a standardized comparison, real-world experiences often differ, and Journey owners are no exception. Most drivers report numbers within a few MPG of the official figures, but extreme driving conditions, heavy traffic, mountainous terrain, or frequent short trips, can significantly reduce observed fuel economy. Conversely, long highway journeys at moderate speeds might deliver slightly better results than the EPA’s 24 MPG estimate. Disciplined driving habits are essential to achieving the best possible fuel economy in the 2016 Dodge Journey AWD 3.6L 6-cyl.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size SUVs with available all-wheel drive, the 2016 Dodge Journey’s fuel economy sits near the lower end of the spectrum. A 2016 Toyota Highlander LE AWD, for example, boasts an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, offering a significant advantage. Even the larger Ford Explorer XLT 4WD from the same year manages 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, nearly identical, despite its larger size. Buyers drawn to the Journey are often less concerned with squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gas and more focused on its lower price point compared to these more economical rivals. For those truly concerned about efficiency, exploring all Dodge fuel economy data beyond the Journey might reveal better options. While newer crossovers boast superior MPG, vehicles from a similar model year can be compared in our JOURNEY MPG across all years data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important. Ensure your Journey’s tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes and other services to keep the engine running optimally.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a constant speed and improve fuel economy.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Remove any excess items from the vehicle, as added weight increases fuel consumption. Similarly, avoid using roof racks or cargo carriers unless absolutely necessary, as they create aerodynamic drag and reduce fuel efficiency.

Consider tire choice when replacement time arrives. Low rolling resistance tires are designed to reduce friction and improve fuel economy. Choosing a tire with this characteristic can contribute to a small but noticeable improvement in MPG.

Plan your trips strategically. Combining errands into a single trip minimizes cold starts, which consume more fuel. Avoid peak traffic times whenever possible to reduce idling and stop-and-go driving; factors that severely impact fuel economy.