The Dodge Journey, a midsize crossover/wagon, returns for 2013. Thoroughly (and successfully) revamped for 2011, very few changes are expected for this model year. The vehicle, based on a car platform rather than an SUV one, is configured to seat a maximum of 7 adults and appeals to families looking for room and power without wanting to dip too far into the savings account.

Eight levels of trim are available for the Journey. The base AVP (American Value Package) comes with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine making 173 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive and includes upscale features like steering-wheel audio controls, a 4.3-inch touchscreen and keyless entry. Taking a tiny step up is the SE, which dots the tail lights with LEDs and adds deep-tinted glass. (New for both trims this year are standard 17-inch wheels.) Fuel economy is estimated at 19 mpg city/26 highway.

Those trims are great for getting the whole crew and all their gear together for a bargain price, but in terms of get-up-and-go, the inline-4 just doesn’t have enough gusto. It’s not until we get up to the SXT level—where a best-in-class 3.6-liter FlexFuel V6 making 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque is available—that things get really fun; fog lights and a cargo net are also added. The Crew includes in-floor storage, leather-and-chrome trim and standard overhead storage console. A 6-speed automatic transmission is available for the SXT and standard for the R/T and Crew. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available for the SXT, RT and Crew. Mileage is estimated at 17/25 with front-wheel drive and 16/24 with AWD.

People seem to love their Journeys, although it is a bit cramped in the optional third-row seat—a common crossover complaint. It has a luggage capacity of 39.6 cu ft and maximum cargo space of 67.6. It might take those not used to driving a larger vehicle such as this a bit to get used to its blind spots.

Safety features include antilock brakes, front and rear head airbags, dual front side-mounted airbags, emergency braking assist and stability and traction control. Available Uconnect with voice command and touchscreen allows you to control your smartphone and audio by simply speaking aloud; a rear-view camera and parking assistance can also be installed and are part of the available Driver Convenience or Safe and Sound Group.