Very true. We even told him we wanted a van newer than 2011. We were going to get a Hyundai Elantra, but they didn't have any lower models in our budget...
Although this thread is old, I stumbled upon it and I have to say, we absolutely love our 2013 Dodge Journey. The 3.6 is a very solid and well performing engine and sure knows how to get up and go. Do not get a 4cyl, it is the engine that comes in the avenger and is still very gutless even weighing less, I know from experience. We have put 80,000 miles on our Journey, Traveled across country multiple times, and we haven't had to do anything but put gas in it, oil changes, 2 sets of tires, and brakes all the way around, and front rotors. Still drives like it did the day it came off the lot. It is by far the most reliable vehicle we have had, also even with 283hp, we still average 25-28mpg on the highway. It has turned me into a dodge guy.
