The Dodge Journey has been a popular midsize SUV for families and road-trip enthusiasts since its introduction. For many buyers, the third row is the decisive feature that turns this versatile vehicle into a practical family hauler.
Below is a structured overview of the Dodge Journey 3rd row to help you compare key aspects at a glance.
| Aspect | Description | Typical Rating / Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Seven passengers when third row is equipped | 7 | Third row best for small children or occasional use |
| Third Row Headroom | Standing and seated head clearance in rearmost row | ~35–38 inches | Comfortable for kids, tight for adults |
| Third Row Legroom | Knee space and seat pitch in third row | ~28–31 inches | Tight for adults over 6 feet |
| Cargo Space Behind Third Row | Volume available with rear seats folded | ~56–70 cubic feet | Varies by seat configuration and cargo area height |
Dodge Journey 3rd Row Seating Comfort
Seating comfort in the third row is one of the most debated topics among Journey owners. While it is not designed for long highway stretches by adults, it can handle short drives and city errands with reasonable comfort.
The seat cushioning is fairly firm, and the seatback angle is more upright than on the two front rows. Families with younger children often find this row perfectly adequate, especially when paired with booster seats or compact child seats.
Bench vs Bucket Configuration
The middle third row seat is typically a bench, which allows three passengers to share the row. This layout can improve flexibility for carpooling, but individual seat comfort depends on center console height and seat belt placement.
Dodge Journey 3rd Row Access and Entry
Getting in and out of the third row is one of the practical challenges of the Journey. The sliding second row helps, but the overall design still requires a wider opening compared to some crossover competitors.
Owners appreciate the second row’s sliding function, which maximizes both entry ease and rear cargo space. With that said, taller passengers may need to fold the front seats forward for easier access, depending on the trim and model year.
Practicality and Real-World Use
In everyday use, the third row is best treated as an occasional row rather than a primary seating solution. It works well for school runs, short trips, and gatherings where an extra seat is helpful but not constantly occupied.
The rear cargo area remains surprisingly usable even when the third row is in place. With a flat load floor and decent height, this space can handle grocery hauls, luggage, and outdoor gear without overwhelming the cabin.
Key Takeaways for Potential Buyers
- Third row is best for children or occasional adult use
- Sliding second row improves entry and rear cargo flexibility
- Headroom and legroom are adequate for short rides but tight for tall passengers
- Cargo space remains useful even with the third row installed
- Review seat belt routing and LATCH anchors before installing child seats
FAQ
Reader questions
Is the third row suitable for adults on long trips?
The third row is generally not ideal for tall adults on long drives due to limited legroom and a more upright seating position. Short trips and younger passengers are better suited for this row.
Can the second row slide fully forward to improve third row access?
Yes, sliding the second row forward significantly eases entry and egress. Most models allow one-motion sliding, and the process is straightforward even with child seats installed.
How does the third row affect overall cargo capacity?
With the third row in use, cargo space is reduced but still functional for many errands. Folding the third row flat dramatically increases volume, making the cabin versatile for larger items.
Are there any safety considerations specific to the third row?
LATCH anchors are typically available for the third row, though seat belt routing can be less convenient. Proper installation of child seats and awareness of seat belt tension are important for safety and comfort.