So here are some of the differences. The RAV4 has a bit more depth in the back so stacking two high didn't even come up to the back window. The V4 had enough get up and go but felt like the squirrels were running a bit harder under the hood to get going. It felt tighter going over bumps, maybe due to a shorter wheelbase? The light color interior/material worried me a bit for keeping clean, especially with the animals. I did like how the seats fold down. There are releases on the back inside walls you pull with one finger (think recliner chair) and the seats lay down flat by themselves.
In the Journey, the carriers barely came up to the back window, so that was fine. The second row seating seemed a bit wider. The V4 was good and it felt smoother in transitioning from stop to go, ie less squirrel action. The Journey's longer wheelbase made for a smoother ride too. I liked the whole front instrument panel in the Journey better, though it has a touchscreen to get used to. It has keyless entry and start. No more digging in the bottom of the purse for keys. The Journey had a bit more leg room in the front. Also the second row doors open 90 degrees which makes it easier to get carriers in and out and no wheelwell to lift past.
Those are the things of what stood out between the vehicles. Each vehicle had its perks and disadvantages. What it all came down to wasn't a feature or a mpg more. It was something less tangible, a feeling. It was how you "felt" inside each one using the price point as a measure. The RAV4 simply didn't "feel" like it was worth $3,000 more. That is a good chunk of change to consider.
It ended up working out even better after having this $3,000 revelation and going back to the Dodge dealership. I wanted to see about.... uhhhh perhaps ordering a new one instead of taking the one on the lot. I could have lived with the color but might prefer a different color if I saw the choices. Admit it, vehicle color matters to you too! Also to find out what options could be added since I'd just saved myself $3,000 after all, right? I hadn't planned on getting the 3rd row seating as my only 3rd row passengers are the rabbits who refuse to wear seatbelts saying it messes up their prime lines.
The airflow was a concern of mine with both vehicles. The dealership owner checked into the third row seating package which includes having air conditioning/heat in the back with separate controls. It is the only way to get the air conditioning in the back. To me, that was an option worth paying for. I could use some of the $'s saved towards the buns comfort. It got better......there was a deal available until 4/2 that you could get this $995. 3rd row package for FREE!!! It really pays to check into all the possibilities to get exactly what you want and voice any concerns. Like in this case, concerns of the animals overheating. Of course, another happy ending with the vehicle being ordered in the Holland Lop Club's official color, BLUE! Let's not get totally crazy though, I will stop myself from getting a vanity plate..... I think.