| All-new Model Preview | Frankfurt Motor Show | Dodge Journey MPV |

Here's America's rival to the Ford S-MAX and Vauxhall Zafira. The Dodge Journey is set to be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show, hoping to build upon the company's break into the European market, kick-started by the Caliber last year. The car will replace the Chrysler Voyager in the Chrysler Group's range with a new Grand Voyager also being revealed in Frankfurt.

Peter Lambert, Managing Director of Chrysler Group UK said: "The Dodge Journey will attract drivers that need to have an MPV but don't want to own a car with traditional people-carrier looks."

Featuring a 5+2 'theatre' seating arrangement, the Journey blends the space of an MPV with SUV styling, owing much of its character to the Avenger that shares the same platform, albeit at 124mm longer to help cram in two extra seats.

Engine derivatives are a little sparse in the UK: the Journey's 2.4-litre petrol unit develops 173bhp and turns out 167lb.ft of torque, whilst the only alternative is a 2.0-litre turbodiesel producing 138bhp, but an improved torque figure of 229lb.ft at 1,750rpm should help ensure you can drive up a hill fully loaded. The diesel auto option is a six-speed dual-clutch transmission said to be six percent more fuel efficient than the petrol automatic that uses a disappointedly archaic four-speed transmission.

Despite its association with SUVs, the latest Dodge will only be available in front-wheel drive in the UK, but does have MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear suspension, promising to make the Dodge somewhat more manageable.

Prices are expected to be start at under £20,000.

Kyle Molyneux - 31 Aug 2007