A "Kick Ass" Alternative to the Minivan - Ed Dancel

So once in a while, Chrysler would send over a trainer to the dealerships to give us salespeople a refresher course on one of our products.

Today, Ryan from Chrysler Academy came over to retrain us on the cool features of the 2011 Dodge Journey. Outside changes are subtle from the 2010 model, but inside the new Journey is where it's dramatically different.

The 2011 model gets a much nicer cabin, touchscreen controls and a smooth, quiet ride. Ryan calls this the "Kick Ass Alternative to the Minivan".

Now, don't get me wrong. There's absolutely nothing wrong with the minivans, but for all of you soccer moms out there...and you know who you are...who can't see themselves driving a minivan yet, this is the sportier family vehicle just for you.

Ryan pointed out features like the all new 3.6-L V6 Pentastar engine which produces almost 300 horsepower and gets almost 30 miles per gallon on the highway. It also has variable valve timing which adjusts automatically during different driving conditions to allow the engine to breathe better for better performance.

It's also one the safest vehicles on the road right now with standard anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, multi-stage front airbags and side curtain airbags.

One of the major improvements on the 2011 Journey is its interior. Once you get inside the Journey you'll instantly notice the craftsmanship and detail that Chrysler has put into it including lots of soft touch materials on arm rests,door panels, shift knobs and steering wheel. You'll also notice that the dash is more streamlined and fit together so nicely. It almost feels like it was custom tailored just for you.

The best part about the 2011 Journey is the new high tech gadgets. The first thing you'll see that will put you in awe is the all new full color 8.4" touchscreen right in the middle of the dash. It's not just a radio folks. It's your central command module for the vehicle. It's like having an iPad built right into your car. It controls your climate settings, your heated seats, the navigation system, your multi-media devices. It plays music, it displays photos, plays videos. It allows you to communicate hands-free using bluetooth. It has voice command and you can pause and rewind live music on the Sirius Satellite channels. This device is impressive. If you don't believe me go see one for yourself.

Being with new cars every day, it's easy to forget how marvelous our products are. Thanks to trainers like Ryan from Chrysler Academy, we get reminded often.

Well, until next blog, thanks for tuning in folks. Post a comment below if you want and follow my blog.



- Ed Dancel is a sales consultant at Southfield Chrysler 248-354-2950