Next-gen Dodge Journey Rumored to Get Hemi Power, Scat Pack Option

Report indicates Dodge is moving its crossover to performance-based Alfa RWD/AWD platform with possible V8 option.

Let’s face it – the current Dodge Journey isn’t something that most of us would be excited to own. Mainly because, well, it’s a front-wheel-drive SUV powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder producing a weak 172 hp. Sure, it’s affordable and practical, but most certainly not something anyone would accuse of being fun. But if a recent report by Mopar Insiders proves to be true, we could be looking at an entirely new and exciting version of the Journey by 2023.

Dodge has successfully repositioned itself as a muscle car brand in recent years, thanks to the resurgent Challenger and Charger. They’ve also stuffed Hemi V8s into just about everything they make, including the Durango. Thus, the current Journey doesn’t really fit into their lineup, per say. They could just kill it off, but Mopar Insiders hears that Dodge is working on a new five-passenger utility built on the same rear-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive Giorgio architecture as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Giulia that may or may not keep the Journey name.

Move to Alfa Romeo

As you likely know, both of those Alfa models are available in some pretty exciting performance variants. And it looks like the Journey might have some hope in that department as well. Reportedly, it would wear design cues lifted from the Charger and pack a variety of engine options. Which would include, of course, a Hemi. Mopar Insiders also claims that the Journey will be available in a variety of trim levels, including a possible Scat Pack version.

Since this is more of a crossover than SUV, the focus will be on on-road performance. Those seeking an off-roader can opt for the next Jeep Grand Cherokee, which will also be built on the Giorgio platform. If true, all of these changes would most certainly transform the Journey into an exciting and enticing offering. According to Mopar Insiders, this new model could bow in 2022 as a 2023 model.

Perhaps more importantly, it would also align the Journey with Dodge’s mission to rebrand itself as a fun performance brand. Now, if we can just get them to stuff a Hemi into the Grand Caravan, we’ll really be in business.

Photos: Dodge

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.