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The Dodge Journey: Safety through the Years

A red 2020 used Dodge Journey is shown from the front, parked next to a dirtbike.
Whenever you look at any vehicle, safety features should always be a major concern. After all, while a powerful engine and excellent gas mileage are important, if your car can’t help protect you, then nothing else matters. As you look at different vehicles, especially if you’re interested in a used model, it’s important to note that a vehicle will generally have more safety features if it is newer. Looking at different options for a used Dodge Journey, for example, there can be some differences in terms of safety as you go from one year to another. No matter what you’re looking for, before you buy any used Dodge Journey, you should look at the specific specs and details of any particular model you’re interested in. With that in mind, having an overall sense of what was available in different years can help guide you and narrow down your options. Today, let’s take a brief look at the safety features for several different years for the Dodge Journey. We’ll start with the year it was released, 2009, as well as the most recent model, 2020, with a few in between to get a good sense of what all is out there.

The Dodge Journey

Before we get into any specific years, let’s take a moment to look at the Dodge Journey in general. First released for the model year 2009, the Journey was a midsize crossover SUV, which means it was built on a car platform rather than a truck platform like standard SUVs. It was also sold as the Fiat Freemont in some markets – Australia, parts of Europe, China, and Brazil – and was available with either front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The Journey was first revealed in 2007 and then went on sale in 2008 for the 2009 model year. In 2011, a major facelift occurred, which updated a number of features on the Dodge Journey, particularly the exterior design. So, if you’re looking for a used Dodge Journey, you’ll notice that 2009 and 2010 models look quite a bit different from 2011 and later vehicles. 2020 was the last year for the Journey, as Dodge has decided to focus more on performance vehicles like the Charger and Challenger. A close up shows the gauge cluster of a 2020 used Dodge Journey

Safety Features – 2009 Dodge Journey

When looking for a used Dodge Journey, a 2009 model is going to be the oldest one you can find. This means that models from this year probably have the most mileage on them but will also have the lowest price. Since these models are more than a decade old, however, some of their safety features are lacking compared to a more modern vehicle. Twelve years might not seem like much, but there has been a tremendous amount of innovation when it comes to safety over the last decade. Standard safety features on all 2009 Dodge Journey models include advanced multistage driver and front-passenger airbags, with side airbags for the front seat and side-curtain airbags for all three rows. Electronic stability control is standard, which includes brake assist, all-speed traction control, and electronic roll mitigation. That was pretty much it for standard safety features, which was fine but certainly not exceptional by today's standards. Several safety features were offered on packages, or standard on higher trims, including a rear backup camera – in 2009, this was not yet mandatory on all vehicles in the US. A hands-free communication system was available on higher trim levels, which was packaged with an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Otherwise, you won’t find too many other safety features on a used Dodge Journey from 2009, so keep that in mind if safety is important to you.

Safety Features – 2011 Dodge Journey

The Dodge Journey received a facelift in 2011 and added a few more safety features to go along with it. There is an important thing to note, when looking for a used Dodge Journey, know this: for the first two years, the trims were SE, SXT, and R/T. Starting in 2011, however, the trims changed to Express, Mainstreet, Crew, and Lux – so keep this in mind as you look at different models. The standard Journey Express came with electronic stability control with electronic roll mitigation and trail sway control. It featured speed control and a good airbag system throughout the interior, but that was about it. Available safety features for the Express were unimpressive, while the Journey Mainstreet had a rear backup camera and rear park assist features available, though not standard. For 2011, the Journey Crew had pretty much the same safety features as the Mainstreet, with other niceties offered on it. The Journey Lux, however, featured the rear backup camera and rear park assist system, both standard on every model. That means that if you’re looking for good safety on an older used Dodge Journey, then the Lux trim is the way to go.

Safety Features – 2016 Dodge Journey

By 2016, a number of improvements had been made to the Dodge Journey, so this is a good year to look for when shopping for a used model – especially since it likely won’t have as many miles on it as an older one. In terms of overall safety, there were some new features on 2016 models compared to those from 2011, and many of the same additional options were still available. Every used Dodge Journey from 2016 will have advanced multistage front airbags, with supplemental side-curtain airbags in all three rows, along with side driver and front-passenger seat-mounted airbags and a driver inflatable knee bolster. The 2016 model also features all-speed traction control, speed-sensitive automatic power door locks, electronic brake-force distribution, and active headrests. As before, a rear backup camera and rear park assist are available for higher trim levels as part of optional packages, but they’re not standard. A close up shows the wheel on a red 2020 used Dodge Journey.

Safety Features – 2020 Dodge Journey

Finally, we come to the most recent models you’ll find when shopping for a used Dodge Journey and the final year for the Journey: 2020. For 2020, only two trims were available - the SE and the Crossroad - with a lot of similar features between the two of them. By 2020, rear backup cameras are now standard on all models, and the SE features a comprehensive airbag package, as well as brake assist, traction control, and electronic stability control. It comes with a rear parking sensor and standard cruise control. The Crossroad has a lot more to offer, just not in terms of safety. Overall, the safety features on both the SE and the Crossroad are essentially the same, so no matter which used Dodge Journey from 2020 you choose, you’ll find the same great features. The Crossroad has a number of excellent additional features such as leather-trimmed seating, a 10-way power driver seat, and three-zone automatic temperature control. But in terms of safety, either model will do.

Final Considerations

So, where does all of this leave us at the end of the day when looking for a used Dodge Journey and keeping safety in mind? Honestly, there haven’t been many massive changes or additions to the Journey in terms of safety throughout the years, which means you can pretty well shop with confidence no matter which model you’re looking at. Keep in mind that the rear backup camera only became standard starting with 2019 models, so look for the most recent ones or high trims to ensure you stay as safe as possible. Come visit us in Georgetown to find out more, and we’ll make sure you drive away in a vehicle that will help keep you safe.
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A silver 2025 Ram 1500 RHO parked in a dusty dirt area.

How the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO Plans to Change the Off-Road Game

In late April 2024, Ram gave everyone in Northern Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati Area yet another reason to visit a Ram dealer near Independence. In their announcement, Ram revealed plans for the all-new 2025 Ram 1500 RHO, the brand's replacement for the long-gone Ram 1500 TRX. For Independence drivers, this means more freedom to explore than ever before. Said to be “The Strongest Ram 1500 Ever,” the RHO’s claim to fame is that it provides more horsepower for your dollar compared to other premium off-road-oriented full-size pickup trucks. However, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is more than just higher horsepower and torque figures—impressive though those numbers may be. Here’s what we know about the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO so far and why we think it will be an excellent addition to the streets (and trails) of Northern Kentucky. Performance and Capability Ram has been very excited about sharing the power and performance details of the 1500 RHO, and for a good reason, as these numbers are awfully impressive. Stellantis has gotten a lot of attention in the past two years for their Hurricane Twin-Turbo engines, which currently include Standard Output and High Output versions. This 3.0L inline-six powerhouse replaces the beloved 6.2L Hellcat engine in many Stellantis models, including the Ram 1500, Jeep Wagoneer, and the upcoming Dodge Charger. The Hurricane High Output Straight-Six Turbo engine under the hood of the Ram 1500 RHO will provide 540 hp and 521 lb-ft of torque. Not only is this an improvement in power, but Ram also states that fuel economy and emissions will be notably different as well—in a positive way. The RHO’s powertrain is lighter, more efficient, and offers a more nimble driving feel. That being said, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is still a highly capable truck. The maximum towing capacity is 8,380 lbs, and the payload maximum is 1,520 lbs. And don’t forget that this is an off-roading truck, so it has a boosted 11.8-inch ground clearance, thanks to a two-inch height increase over the other trims in its lineup. Also boasting 35-inch tires, the Ram 1500 RHO is suited for fording water up to 32 inches without issue. A range of selectable drive modes allows drivers to tailor their experience behind the wheel to what’s happening beneath them. These modes include Auto, Tow, Mud/Sand, Rock, Snow, Sport, Baja, Custom, and Valet. There are also some handy upgrades, such as Launch Control and engagement switches for the BorgWarner 48-13 full-time active transfer case. Whether you want to go very fast or travel in very low gear, the Ram 1500 RHO is ready to go. What About the Ride? For many drivers, the ride refers to two things: the way the vehicle handles and how nice that experience is from the driver's seat. The two definitions are very much related, and the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO has given great consideration to both. As an off-road-ready truck, the Ram 1500 RHO includes an independent front suspension system made with high-strength aluminum front upper and lower control arms; the size, travel rate, and materials of this system provide this off-road truck with some of the most articulate suspension performance in the Ram lineup. Inside the cabin, your comfort begins with a well-designed interior. Ram decided to give the 1500 RHO equal doses of practicality and luxury—so, to offset the mud-hungry attitude of the exterior, the interior is clad in Natural Plus leather and suede seating. Proving their luxury further, the front and rear bucket seats are heated and ventilated, and the front seats include massage and memory settings. A performance floor shifter wrapped in leather and aluminum paddle shifters can be accessed both above and below the steering wheel, and it leaves the driver feeling both in charge and swaddled in luxury. Then there are the screens. The highlight of the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup is a cutting-edge “cockpit” that offers over fifty inches of digital display screens; this includes a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen on the RHO. As the centerpiece of the cabin, this screen can be configured to provide all of the media, connectivity, and setting shortcuts needed, and its Uconnect 5 architecture adds speed and ease of use. The Ram 1500 RHO's front-seat passenger receives their own class-exclusive 10.25-inch touchscreen, which allows them to manage navigation and entertainment from the co-pilot seat, along with managing exterior camera views of the vehicle. They can also connect their own devices via an HDMI cord, allowing the passenger screen to mirror that of their device. 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Rear view of a silver 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon driving in the desert.

Why Jeep Vehicles and Kentucky Drivers Are the Perfect Match

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Jeep brand? For many drivers, it's images of bulky, square-shaped vehicles climbing rocky trails deep in the wilderness somewhere. Or maybe you've always thought of the Jeep as a warm-weather cruising vehicle, and your mind wanders to a roofless, doorless Jeep blasting through the desert or urban landscape. Ultimately, these images celebrate the ruggedness of the Jeep brand, but really, a Jeep can be so much more. When you visit a Jeep dealer near Covington, you may be shocked at the variety of vehicles you see. Some Jeeps are all-terrain baja beasts, for sure, but some are well-mannered luxurious vehicles that can help turn long commutes into enjoyable voyages. Some have impressive fuel economy, while others are electrified. It's not all bash plates and departure angles. In fact, most of the Jeep lineup does not have removable doors. So why do we say that Jeeps and Kentucky are a "match made in heaven?" It's because there are so many options to choose from. Whether you spend most of your time on Route 71 or have a solid working knowledge of all the trails surrounding the Covington area, there's a Jeep that offers the exact level of stability and excitement you're looking for. Here are some of our Jeep suggestions for the many driving personalities of the Bluegrass State. On the City Streets The Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee were two of the most popular models in the early days of the SUV boom. Once rugged vehicles that lacked most creature comforts, the Grand Cherokee and Cherokee models today are very people-friendly. However, a lot has changed since the 1990s. Sadly, the Cherokee left the Jeep lineup, though the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee 4xe have stepped up to fill the hole that its departure left in the hearts of drivers. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. "Grand" can mean both "elegant" and "large," and the 2024 Grand Cherokee identifies with both of those terms. Passengers have loads of hip and shoulder room in the front and rear of the Grand Cherokee, while the maximum amount of cargo for the Grand Cherokee is 70.8. The 2024 Grand Cherokee is offered as both a 4x2 and 4x4, with the further option of two or three rows of seating for all but one of the nine available trims. Also available is the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. This plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) combines a 2.0L gas-powered engine with an electric motor system. Drivers can select between all-gas, all-electric, or hybrid power consumption, giving you full control of fuel economy and battery usage. All told, the Grand Cherokee 4xe has an average fuel consumption of 56 MPGe, which may sound very attractive to those who have spent far more time than they wanted sitting in traffic. In the Country We also happen to live in a beautiful part of the country. From the rolling grassy hillsides of farm country to the caves and mountains in the southern part of the state, Kentucky is a glorious sight to behold from the road. Perhaps you're the type of driver who doesn't necessarily need a vehicle that can ford a river, but maybe one that can take the family down to do a little camping now and then. Consider the seven to eight-seat Jeep Wagoneer family, which includes the Wagoneer, the Wagoneer L, the Grand Wagoneer, the Grand Wagoneer L, and the Wagoneer S. The L designation refers to a longer wheelbase—an additional 7 inches for the wheelbase and 12 inches of overall length for each. The S refers to the upcoming electrified Wagoneer, which shares the adventurous spirit and generous size of its gasoline-powered siblings while being 100% electric-powered. Equipped with a fun 420 hp 3.0L V6 engine, the 2024 Wagoneer is offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, though the top Series III trim is offered in 4x4 only. While the Wagoneer is equipped with two available 4x4 systems and an available Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, these features add stability on the pavement as well as dirt roads. Those looking for even more of everything might select the Grand Wagoneer instead. With its 510-hp Hurricane twin-turbo engine, it is capable of a 5.9 second 0-60 mile per hour acceleration as well as towing loads up to 9,800 lbs. If the rolling grassy hillsides are your home and not necessarily your vacation destination, consider the Jeep Gladiator. It's not just an off-road capable pickup truck—it's an off-road vehicle with a pickup bed. From running fences in the mud and rain to running bags of feed and equipment back and forth, the Gladiator handles mud, snow, sludge, rocky terrain, and pavement with no problem. Furthermore, 2024 Gladiator models can handle payloads up to 1,725 lbs or tow up to 7,700 lbs, making them pretty capable partners. 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With available features like Tru-Lok front and rear Electronic Locking Differentials, electric sway bars and rock rails, and a heavy-duty full-float rear axle, Wrangler models don't necessarily need a road to get where they're going. For every trail, there is a Jeep, though not every Jeep requires a trail—that part is entirely up to the driver. Choosing the Right Jeep for Your Drivestyle There are many advantages to having a rugged vehicle, even if your lifestyle doesn't include anything bumpier than the occasional pothole. When the roads get wet or cold, many drivers find that all-wheel drive gives them peace of mind in addition to extra traction and balance. Sure, a Jeep is a great choice for all your off-roading needs, but even if you have no off-roading needs at all, a Jeep model can be a great choice for you, your family, and your sense of adventure. Whether you fill the cargo area with your shopping, souvenirs, or survival supplies for a week in the wild, Jeep vehicles are prepared to get you wherever you need to go, whenever you need to drive there. Come in today and speak with our knowledgeable team. Tell them what you're looking for in a Jeep vehicle, and they'll offer you a variety of options to enhance your daily commute, weekend in the wilderness, and everything in between!

A grey 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe driving over a shallow river.

Your Guide to the 2024 Jeep Wrangler's Trims

Looking to find a Jeep Wrangler for sale near Independence? At Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Georgetown, we'll help you figure out which Wrangler trim is best for your needs. The 2024 Wrangler provides a quality lineup of excellent trim options to choose from and contains a little something unique for everyone while getting you where you need to go. On this year’s lineup, we have the Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, and Rubicon X—all including powerful performance, special features, and a durable shell to keep you and your vehicle protected while off-roading. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport The standard or base trim of the 2024 Jeep Wrangler is the Sport, which starts with an MSRP of $31,995. The Sport trim provides stellar power with the Wrangler's standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, which offers 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. You can choose either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission with this engine. The 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the rest of the Wrangler's trim levels. With this engine and the manual transmission, the two-door Sport can tow up to 2,000 lbs, while the four-door model can tow up to 3,500 lbs. With the Sport trim, you’ll receive a classic Wrangler with enough get-up-and-go to start your day on the wild side. On all Jeep Wrangler trims, drivers will love the standard 12.3-inch touchscreen display that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, handsfree phone and audio, and a trial subscription to a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. More features and an upgraded sound system are available on the other Jeep Wrangler trims. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport S The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport S trim level is only just above the base model with an MSRP of $35,595. With the Sport S, you can add the Safety Group package which will add confidence to any drive, whether you jump onto the highway, stay in the city limits, or find yourself off the paved path. The features in this available package include automatic high-beam headlights, a blind spot monitor, and ParkSense Rear Park-Assist. How about when you’re having off-roading adventures and are ducking under loose tree branches or kicking up rocks? Will the Sport S be durable enough to handle the pressure? Of course, and with the bonus of a sturdy windshield made from Corning Gorilla glass, you are sure to minimize and prevent damage from occurring. So, sit back and relax, listening to your premium Alpine Audio system (that is available for the Sport S trim), and let the exterior shell handle the outdoor surprises. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Willys The next trim up is the iconic Willys, with an MSRP of $40,090. The standard engine on the Willys is the same 3.6L V6 with either the 6-speed manual transmission or the 8-speed automatic included on the Sport. You can also opt for an available 2.0L 4-cylinder engine on this trim that yields 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This trim serves a unique exterior design with special Willy hood decals, LED lights, and a stunning black grille. There are many customization options with available safety and technology group packages so you can make the Willys your own. A one-touch power top is available on this trim and is convenient for off-roading adventures or for those sunny days, when you want to feel the wind blow through your hair. However, you can only opt for this feature with the four-door model. When you choose the Willys trim, you’ll also gain access to nice comfort features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel for chilly days, and you can opt for a nine-speaker Alpine premium audio system. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara The next trim up is the Sahara. While only available with four doors, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara has ten color options, an available body-color three-piece hardtop, 18-inch wheels, and body-colored fender flares for a head-turning appearance. You can be the talk of Independence when you drive around town in this vehicle! Of course, this Jeep trim option also provides powerful LED lighting for better visibility and nighttime driving convenience. This trim begins with an MSRP of $49,790 and comes standard with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, though it can also be fitted with the 3.6L V6 engine. Drivers will find that this trim can tow up to 3,500 lbs when the model is properly equipped. Along with these alterations, the Sahara doesn’t stop there. You can opt for a few different side-step options, including black tubular side steps and chrome tubular side steps. With the Sahara, you can also opt for the Alpine audio system so you can rock out to your favorite playlist or listen to a good podcast as you are traveling. The Sahara trim can be equipped with an off-roading camera called the TrailCam Forward Facing Off-Road Camera, so you can see exactly what’s going on in front of you. Plus, you’ll never get lost again if you opt for the GPS navigation system that is available. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon You can't talk about the iconic Jeep Wrangler without discussing the Jeep Rubicon. This performance-focused trim starts at an MSRP of $47,390 and can be found in either two or four doors, unlike the Sahara trim. Regardless of which Wrangler Rubicon trim you swing for, you'll be getting a vehicle you absolutely love. With a durable body and off-roading tires, this Wrangler can take you anywhere you want to go and beyond—all without breaking a sweat. It is a reliable, well-rounded machine with upgrades to its exterior appearance, like special decals and an available Xtreme 35 Package with 35-inch wheels. Like the previous trim, it also features available trailer tow and auxiliary switches, as well as the Class-Exclusive One-Touch Power Top that adds convenience to your drive. It is even able to be fitted with WARN winch with steel bumpers. The Rubicon offers more than you could imagine. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X offers the best of everything the Wrangler has to offer, adding more benefits to your daily adventures and providing more for your money. With an MSRP of $57,390, you will receive powerful performance and capability, as well as winch-capable steel bumpers and 35-inch tires. You’ll also find an impressive interior design and comfort that offers Nappa-leather trimmed seats with heated power front seats. When you choose the Rubicon X, you’ll get everything that makes a Wrangler exceptional, with a TrailCam, trim exclusive exterior designs, and a navigation system included. Find greatness in the 2024 Rubicon X trim level. Which is the Best Trim for You? So, have you decided? Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Georgetown, is here to help you discover the exact 2024 Jeep Wrangler trim level that is right for you. Get off-roading capabilities that will surely thrill you or an exterior design that screams extreme. With special editions to consider and a multitude of accessories available, the 2024 Wrangler is prepared to impress new and old fans of the Jeep Wrangler. Our dealership has a great team who rea able to answer any questions you may have about making the Wrangler your own. When you are ready to get started, take the trip from Independence to our dealership! MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for more details.