2019 Dodge Journey Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

Drivers looking to save some money on their next family vehicle will likely want to give the 2019 Dodge Journey some consideration. It is certainly big enough for the average family, and there are plenty of practical features to be found. Of course, the features you get depend on the trim level you buy and what you choose to add onto it.

Down one trim level from the 2018 line-up, the 2019 Dodge Journey now only comes in three different trims: the SE, Crossroad, and GT. Eliminating a trim level seems to have been done in an effort to focus on improving the standard features found on the other three. For example, tri-zone temperature control, fog lamps, and a restyled rear fascia are all new for the 2019 model year.

This model year, Dodge gives you the choice between having a 2.4-L 4-cylinder engine (which comes standard on the SE and Crossroad trims) or a 3.6-L V6. The V6 can be equipped on any of the three trim levels, but it does come standard on the all-wheel drive variant of the GT. Both engines are pretty powerful, making the 2019 Dodge Journey rather pleasant to drive.

On any trim level, you can select from ten chic color options. This includes the brand new Destroyer Gray hue. 67.6 cubic feet of cargo space is available once you fold the second and third rows of seats down, and they fold down quite flatly. In fact, the whole vehicle is fairly spacious for being an SUV with third-row seating.

As you can see, all of the Journey's trim options have some attractive features. With all of these similarities, how are you supposed to know which trim level is the right one for you? Read through the trim level comparisons in this review, and you might find yourself feeling more confident in your decision.

Compare the 2019 Dodge Journey SE vs Crossroad Trims. What is the difference?

The SE is the 2019 Dodge Journey's base trim level, but it is far from being basic. And the Crossroad is certainly very far from being basic. The standard 2.4-L 4-cylinder engine comes on both trim levels, but the Crossroad gives you the option of equipping the more high-powered 3.6-L V6 that comes standard on the GT. The 2.4-L is matched up with a 4-speed automatic transmission while the 3.6-L gets a 6-speed automatic. Both of these engines are powerful, but the 3.6-L is, of course, the stronger option.

There are some suspension differences between the SE and the Crossroad. The SE comes with a normal duty suspension while the Crossroad gets an upgraded Touring suspension. This provides a slightly more refined ride quality over what you get from the normal duty on the SE. On both trim levels, the front suspension has an independent MacPherson strut, and there is a multi-link independent rear suspension.

On the inside, there are some minor differences worthy of mentioning. For example, the SE has a manual driver's seat height adjuster while the Crossroad comes with a 6-way power adjustable driver seat that has a 4-way power adjustable lumbar setting. As far as the upholstery goes, the SE is adorned with cloth while the Crossroad gets some seriously chic leather with sport mesh inserts. Bucket seats with the leather trim are optional on the Crossroad as well, and low-back bucket seats come standard on all trim levels.

Even if you are buying the 2019 Dodge Journey as simply a functional daily driver, a lot of cushy convenience features get wrapped into the package. Even the SE trim comes with standard dual-zone climate control, an automatically dimming rearview mirror with display, power windows with a one-touch-down feature on the driver's window, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Of course, the Crossroad gets quite a bit more, including tri-zone automatic climate control, a humidity sensor, interior observation mirror, overhead console, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. A heated steering wheel and universal garage door opener are optional features on the Crossroad. Illuminated cup holders also come standard across this year's line-up.

Of course, what many drivers will care about are the infotainment features. Not to worry; Dodge packs a bunch of those into the Journey trims as well. Standard audio and UConnect features on the base SE trim level include a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, a 6-speaker sound system, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and a remote USB port. You can also opt for UConnect Voice Command with Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio. On the Crossroad, you get upgraded to an 8.4-inch touchscreen with UConnect (UConnect with navigation is optional), a standard one-year subscription to SiriusXM (a five-year one is optional), and an optional Garmin navigation system.

And since safety matters, those features cannot be overlooked. The SE and Crossroad are both equipped with electronic stability control and roll mitigation, keyless entry, keyless go, a rearview camera, a SentryKey anti-theft system, speed control, and traction control. A security alarm comes optional on the Crossroad if you are looking for that extra level of protection from theft. Also, the Crossroad has an optional rear parking assist program that helps drivers back the Journey safely into tight parking spots.

Last, but certainly not least, are the differences in exterior looks. While the SE rides atop 17-inch steel wheels (aluminum is optional), the Crossroad gets upgraded 19-inch black noise aluminum wheels. Automatic headlamps, backup lamps, halogen quad headlamps, and high beam daytime running lamps are all standard exterior equipment as far as lighting goes. However, black headlamp and tail lamp bezels are not available on the SE. The mirrors on the Crossroad include power heating as an extra convenience. Also, the Crossroad gets a special sport treatment with black and platinum chrome, as well as the Crossroad badging slapped onto it.

Compare the 2019 Journey Crossroad vs GT Trims. What is the difference?

The GT trim is where things drastically change on the 2019 Dodge Journey. On the GT, the powerful 3.6-L V6 engine comes standard with the 6-speed automatic transmission. As is the case with the Crossroad, an engine block heater is available as an add-on item. Unlike the Crossroad, however, an engine oil cooler is standard issue. A top-of-the-line high performance suspension is equipped as well.

On the interior of the GT, a 368-watt amplifier helps to enhance sound quality throughout the cabin. The sound system itself comes with six state-of-the-art Alpine speakers and a subwoofer. Like the Crossroad, an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard, as is the Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth. Video remote control, a Uconnect system with navigation, and a five-year subscription to SiriusXM radio are all available as options. As far as safety features go, the only significant difference is that the safety alarm that is optional on the Crossroad is standard on the GT. Otherwise, you can expect safety features to remain essentially the same.

In addition to the 12-volt auxiliary power outlet, the GT also comes with a 115-volt auxiliary power outlet, which the Crossroad does not have. It also receives an automatically dimming rearview mirror, dimpled leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a heated steering wheel. The GT receives upgraded leather upholstery with perforated panels on the seats, and the second- and third-row seats can recline and fold as needed.

The exterior of the GT is also somewhat different from that of the Crossroad. Overall, it speaks to more of a luxurious vibe than the sportier Crossroad. The GT has 19-inch painted aluminum wheels, dual bright exhaust tips, a body-colored grille, and Dodge performance body-colored front and rear fascias. Of course, you can tell it is a GT since it has the GT badging. If you plan on doing some towing, you can get a trailer tow with 4-pin connector wiring added on. Like the Crossroad, the GT can tow up to 2,500 pounds, which is decent for its class.

There are a few options groups that are available exclusively on the GT and tend to make it worthy of consideration for purchase. For example, the Blacktop Package adds 19-inch glossy black aluminum wheels, black side roof rails, and gloss-black outer mirrors, fascia applique, and a grille. If you want to get really fancy, the Chrome Appearance Group by Mopar adds stunning chrome trim to the vehicle's exterior.

Final Thoughts

With just three trim options to choose from this model year, selecting the right 2019 Dodge Journey should be relatively simple. While the SE is a solid base trim and the Crossroad provides a nice middle ground, the GT gives a lot of bang for your buck. The standard 3.6-L V6 engine is a must-have for anyone who enjoys a powerful performance.

There are certainly enough standard features that come as options on the lower trims to make buying the GT justifiable. The audio system in the GT is superior to that in the two lower trim levels. Also, the inclusion of the high performance suspension helps to refine the ride quality over what you get on the SE. The Crossroad is a slightly sportier option, but it might not be the most practical.

Still, regardless of trim level, you will be getting something with a lot of interior versatility and options for exterior customization. Just take heed; this is a no-frills, no-nonsense vehicle that really is meant to be a family-oriented daily driver.