2012 Dodge Journey will start at $18,995, third-row seating free in March

Chrysler Group LLC has announced pricing details for the 2012 Dodge Journey crossover vehicle. The starting price of $18,995 makes the Journey the most-affordable seven-passenger vehicle in America. The brand also announced that the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers up to 26-mpg highway, would now be standard on Journey on SXT, AVP and SE models. The SXT model features a new MSRP of $22,995, not including destination charges. The Journey lineup also touts more than 40 safety and security features, making the Journey Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for 2012.

"Dodge Journey is the most versatile and affordable crossover in America with innovative seating and storage that sets it apart from anything else in its class," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. "We're building on our momentum by making one of our most unique attributes – seven-passenger seating – and making it even more accessible to hard-working families."

Aside from the 173-hp 4-cylinder model, Dodge Journey customers can also choose the optional V6 engine. The award-winning Pentastar engine produces up to 283-hp and an estimated 25-mpg highway. V6 models are also equipped with a refined all-wheel drive system.

Dodge has disclosed some vehicle highlights of each Journey model as well, beginning with the base AVP crossover. Despite being an entry-level model, the 2012 Journey AVP features a refined interior with premium, soft-touch materials, driver-focused center console, available integrated child booster seats, optional Tilt ‘n Slide second-row seats, 4.3-inch Uconnect Touchscreen and Keyless Enter ‘n Go with push button start. The AVP model is a new edition to the 2012 Journey lineup.

Consumers can also opt for the more sophisticated 2012 Journey SXT model, which includes dual bright exhaust tips, 17-inch aluminum wheels, low-rolling-resistance premium tires, fog lamps, 4.3-inch UConnect Touchscreen with SiriusXM Satellite Radio, body-colored heated and powered exterior mirrors and available all-wheel drive.

Lastly, Dodge announced an incentive for the month of March only, that offers the Flexible Seating Group on all 2012 Dodge Journey models, free of charge. The package includes an easy entry second row 60/40 Tilt ‘n Slide seat, three-zone heating and air conditioning and third-row 50/50 folding and reclining seat. This feature, which is normally priced at $995, is free from now until April 2, 2012.

Dodge enjoyed an impressive February sales month that saw 42,692 in sales, a 27 percent year-over-year increase. Each Dodge model experienced a jump in sales, including the Journey, which sold 6,448 units, a 28 percent boost compared to last year.

Photo: Dodge