19 MPG combined. That figure isn’t going to win any awards. But the 2019 Dodge Journey 3.6L isn’t chasing trophies. It’s chasing affordability and practicality for families who need three rows of seating without spending a fortune. The Journey delivers on that promise, and its fuel economy, while not excellent, is a compromise most buyers in this segment are willing to make in exchange for space and a lower price.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Dodge Journey 3.6L will achieve 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the Journey’s weight and older six-speed automatic transmission work against it. The highway number is more respectable, but you probably won’t consistently hit 25 MPG at higher speeds, especially with a fully loaded vehicle and the air conditioning running. Consider those highway miles a best-case scenario. Drivers should expect frequent fill-ups, especially during long road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Dodge Journey 3.6L at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific conditions you encounter, but $2,300 is a reasonable benchmark to consider when budgeting for vehicle ownership.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are useful for comparison, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Dodge Journey owners often report numbers lower than the advertised 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. Expect something closer to 15-16 MPG in typical city driving and perhaps 22-24 MPG on the highway, especially if you live in an area with hilly terrain or frequently carry passengers and cargo. The 3.6L V6 is a proven engine, but it needs to work hard to move the Journey’s considerable mass, and that effort translates directly into fuel consumption. Keep an eye on JOURNEY MPG across all years to see owner-reported figures.

How it compares

The Journey’s fuel economy doesn’t compare favorably against many of its competitors. Consider the Honda Pilot, which achieves 22 MPG combined with its standard V6 and front-wheel drive or the Toyota Highlander, which delivers a similar 23 MPG combined with its base engine. Even the Kia Sorento, another value-oriented three-row SUV, manages around 22 MPG. The Nissan Pathfinder equipped with front-wheel drive also comes in at 23 MPG combined, besting the Journey by a significant margin. These vehicles offer better fuel efficiency but they also come with a higher price tag. The Journey’s appeal lies in its affordability, trading fuel economy for a lower initial investment. See all Dodge fuel economy data to compare the Journey with other models from the brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important in the Journey. Avoid aggressive starts and stops, as the V6 engine consumes fuel quickly when pushed hard. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The Journey’s six-speed automatic transmission will shift more smoothly and efficiently if you avoid sudden bursts of power.

Proper tire inflation is essential for optimal fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo in the Journey can negatively impact fuel economy. Clear out any items you don’t need, especially heavy objects. Every pound adds up, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can help improve fuel efficiency, particularly on long trips. Avoiding fluctuations in speed can make a difference when covering long distances.

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Journey running efficiently. Ensure the engine is properly tuned, and that filters are clean. A well-maintained vehicle operates more smoothly and efficiently, leading to better fuel economy.