Hey guys, just bought my 2012 DJ SXT 3.6L Pentastar, have driven around 650kms so far and I cant believe how economical this thing is!!! WOOHOO!!! I'm getting around 10.6-11.0L/100kms around town (60/40 highway/city driving) I know some of you might be wondering "why is this guy so happy about fuel consumption in the 10.5-11s" but I've owned a 2009 Dodge Nitro and a 2010 Jeep Patriot 2.4L 5 speed and I have to admit that the Journey has got the most balanced power/economy ratio out of the others I've owned. The Nitro was an absolute guzzler - 16.0L/100km around town and 10.8L/100km on highway at best (melbourne to sydney and return - roughly 1800kms) - couldnt praise the car much coz the engine/gearbox combo was too weak to pull the 2 tonne beast. The Patriot, although manual, could only better the Nitro's comsumption by a little bit - 8.5L/100 km highway (melbourne-sydney) 10.4L/100km around town with same highway/city driving as the Journey. Besides, the Patriot was a little wheezy for a 2.4L.
The Journey's performance is brilliant. The 6 speed is well matched to the engine and there is plenty in reserve when the pedal is pushed. I did notice that the fuel consumption would go up when sitting in traffic frequently or when FWOT is explored too often but for everyday driving, it's great I'm amazed that this crossover can return much better consumption than the Nitro which weighs about the same. Not to mention how well equipped it is with all the features. I'm totally happy!
Looking forward to better mileage as the engine wears in and I'll make that switch to synthetic oil!
