21 MPG combined. That’s the headline figure for the 2020 Dodge Journey equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. To be frank, that number isn’t winning any awards. But to truly understand this figure, you need to understand the Journey itself. It’s a budget-friendly, three-row crossover often purchased by families prioritizing space and affordability over technology or fuel efficiency. For that specific demographic, the MPG is simply part of the equation, a compromise accepted to get the versatility they need at a price they can afford.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Dodge Journey 2.4L manages 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The lower city number reflects the demands of stop-and-go driving, a common scenario for the Journey, which frequently serves as a family hauler for school runs and errands. While the highway figure is more respectable, reaching that number requires a light foot and consistent speeds. The aging 4-speed automatic transmission doesn’t help; its limited number of gears means the engine works harder than it would with a more modern 6- or 8-speed unit, especially at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Dodge Journey 2.4L at exactly $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving that reflects typical usage. Importantly, this calculation uses national average fuel prices. If you live in an area with higher-than-average gasoline costs, your actual annual fuel expense will likely exceed $2,100. Conversely, if you drive fewer miles or live where fuel is cheaper, you may spend less. The EPA’s estimate provides a standardized benchmark that allows for easy comparison between different vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful baseline, your actual fuel economy will vary. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, terrain, and even tire pressure can all impact your MPG. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will all decrease fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance, including air filter replacements and proper tire inflation, is critical for maintaining optimal MPG. Owners seeking the best possible fuel economy from their Journey should monitor their driving habits and diligently adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row crossovers, the 2020 Dodge Journey’s fuel economy lags behind. For example, the front-wheel-drive Toyota Highlander with its standard V6 achieves a combined 24 MPG. Even the larger, more powerful Honda Pilot manages 23 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Nissan Pathfinder, another popular choice in the segment, also betters the Journey with its 23 MPG combined rating. It’s important to consider these figures in light of the Journey’s lower price point. While competitors offer superior fuel efficiency, they often come with a higher initial investment. Potential buyers must weigh the long-term fuel costs against the upfront savings offered by the Journey. See our Dodge fuel economy data for all model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive driving. The Dodge Journey’s 2.4L engine and 4-speed transmission are not designed for rapid acceleration or high-speed cruising. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed will significantly improve your fuel economy. Watch the tachometer; keeping the RPMs low is key.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is especially important if you often carry passengers or cargo.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive weight in your Journey reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items stored in the cargo area or backseat that are not essential. Even small amounts of extra weight add up over time and impact MPG.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid driving during peak traffic hours whenever possible. Stop-and-go traffic significantly reduces fuel economy. Using navigation apps to identify potential congestion and planning alternative routes can help you maintain a steadier pace and improve your MPG. Also, consider combining errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed on the highway minimizes fluctuations in fuel consumption. Cruise control allows you to hold a steady speed over long distances, improving fuel efficiency compared to manually adjusting the throttle. Remember to disengage cruise control when driving in heavy traffic or inclement weather.

The Journey appeals to a specific set of buyers: those needing three rows on a serious budget. They accept the fuel economy penalty, knowing that for their needs, the combination of space and low price trumps the need for efficiency. For all Dodge fuel economy data and comparisons, you’ll find the information you want on our Dodge make page.