Dodge take on the crossover market.

YET another car maker is trying to cash in on the booming market for socalled crossover cars with a new model which follows hard on the heels of the Renault Koleos and Ford Kuga.

This time, though, there's a difference - for this is an American take on the theme and, in truth, it doesn't cross over half as much as the Renault or the Ford.

For while the new Dodge Journey looks every bit rugged enough to challenge light off road driving, the fact that it only comes with front wheel drive leaves it lagging behind the allwheel-drive systems of other crossover models.

Nevertheless, this, Dodge's third UK model, will take buyers who need MPV-type versatility on a considerably cheaper journey than its rivals for, with prices from pounds 16,995, it undercuts the four wheel drive competition by a considerable margin. And the Dodge's ace-in-the-hole is the fact that all models will be available with 5+2 seating as standard - a feature not available in the Renault or the Ford.

There's a choice of either a 2.4-litre petrol engine and five speed gearbox or a twolitre diesel with a manual or dual-clutch automatic gearbox - both six speeders.

The entry-level SE model will come with three-zone climate control; a steering wheel that adjusts for height and reach; tyre pressure monitoring; power folding and heated wing mirrors; electric windows and sixdisc CD with MP3 compatible sound system all as standard. Family-friendly features include tilt and slide second-row seats; rear doors that open to 90-degrees for easy access when installing child seats and air-conditioning that works in all three rows. The range will consist of five models with three levels of trim when it goes on sale in August.