You've made the decision that it's time to purchase a crossover SUV. You like the Dodge Journey, but you're also not quite sure which of the Dodge Journey trim levels you should choose. Fear not. Although the 2016 Dodge Journey is an excellent choice no matter which trim level you select, we've compiled this brief guide to help you decide.

2016 Canada Value Package or CVP
There's a reason why this base version of the Journey bears the value package name. It's designed for people on a budget, but it isn't stripped-down. It comes with the 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine good for 177 horsepower, and it's mated to a four-speed transmission. It has 17-inch aluminum wheels, air conditioning with dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and power locks and windows.

 

Seven-passenger seating is available as an option. The CVP isn't smaller than any of its brothers, but two rows of seats are the norm. If you're looking for two rows plus cargo room, this won't be a problem. If you're looking for three rows of seating for seven people, either pick the option or consider the SE Plus.

The Journey SE Plus provides some upgrades in comfort as well as seating.  If you're looking to transport people on a regular basis, the vehicle can handle this well with its 2nd row 60/40 tilt 'n slide easy-entry seats and 3rd row 50/50 folding reclining seat system.  It's easy to get into the 3rd row and it can be done from both sides.

 

You also get amenities like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, illuminated front cup holders to ensure your drink doesn't end up on the floorboard at night, and air conditioning with tri-zone temperature control so third-row passengers are comfortable too. Exterior heated mirrors, LED tail lamps, and deep-tint sunscreen glass also come standard. If your priority is passenger transport, the SE Plus deserves a look.

Dodge Journey SXT: Increased Power and Conveniences

Move over to the Journey SXT and the first thing you'll notice is a choice of engines. You can either have the 2.4-litre four-cylinder, or you can select the optional 3.6-litre V-6 with 283 horpower and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Fog lamps, automatic headlights, passenger assist handles, a security alarm, and a 115-volt power outlet are all standard. So are dual bright exhaust tips if you select the V-6, a trip computer with temperature and compass readout, sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an interior observation mirror just in case your passengers might get a bit unruly. If you're looking for increased power and have children to transport, consider the Journey SXT.

The Crossroad FWD: Leather and Comfort at a Reasonable PriceSlide into the cabin of the Crossroad FWD and you'll immediately notice the upgrades. The seats are leather-faced, have Light Slate Grey accent stitching, and sport mesh inserts. You get a power 10-way driver's seat with four-way power lumbar adjust, Dodge's Uconnect system multimedia centre with 8.4-inch touchscreen and six speakers, and SiriusXM satellite radio with one-year subscription.

If you need more space, the Crossroad FWD also comes with Flip 'n Stow forward fold-flat front-passenger seat with in-seat storage. Throughout the compartment, Liquid Graphite accents can be seen.

 

Outside, your Journey has been upgraded to 19-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels. Black headlamp and tail lamp surrounds. A body-colour fascia with Platinum Chrome insert, front and rear aimable LED lamps, and a gloss black grille are all standard equipment. It also comes with a suspension tailored for touring, meaning you and your passengers are cradled as you drive.

Journey Limited: The Word is LuxuryThe 3.6-litre V-6 comes standard on the Limited, along with 19-inch aluminum wheels. It comes with a heated steering wheel and heated seats, remote start, quad halogen headlamps, and a rear window wiper-washer.

Both driver and front passenger have LED lamps, and three 12-volt outlets, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with microphone, and a cargo net.

Options include a Trailer Tow Prep Group if you're looking to transport a trailer or small boat, a Navigation and Back-Up Camera Group if you're looking for additional safety, and a Rear Seat Video Group to keep passengers entertained on long trips. The Limited is for those who need cargo capacity, yet need space for passengers both young and old.

The Journey R/T, R/T Rallye, and Crossroad AWD: Built for PerformanceBoth the Journey R/T and the R/T Rallye share important characteristics: the V-6 is standard with the six-speed transmission, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and safety features including rear park assist.

But there are some cosmetic and mechanical differences. The R/T's suspension is a performance suspension, while the Rallye version is a high-performance suspension with no side roof rails and crossbars.

Both versions come with all-wheel drive, but the Rallye comes with red accent stitching on the seats, door trim and steering wheel. Loaded with extras like a 368-watt sound system, both are for people who enjoy powerful vehicles with custom interior work.

 

The Crossroad AWD gives you all-wheel drive, keyless entry, remote start, rear park assist, and leather-faced seating. It has platinum chrome side roof rails, body-colour power heated exterior mirrors, and the 3.6-litre V-6 under the hood. If you're looking for top-level comfort combined with horsepower, the Limited should be your choice considering it has almost all the Journey's options as standard.

Of course, reading about the 2016 Dodge Journey is only part of the puzzle. Schedule a test drive today and decide which trim level is right for you. As The Car Connection wrote, "…the Journey is a solid family pick, and one of the least-expensive ways to get a third-row seat.