Chrysler/Dodge wants to be known as “the best little car company in America” according to the maker’s president in a recent interview. We’re assuming he means North America, since Chrysler/Dodge serves both the United States and Canada with their vehicles. Winning back the American spirit by way of muscle car will certainly help in that market, once Dodge Challenger hits the sales market that is.

However, this is only the beginning steps for Chrysler to build everlasting customer trust throughout the world. That’s right, soon European car buyers will be able to drive past the Thames in a Dodge Charger or take the family “on holiday” in their Journey. A global volume of 3 million cars is what Dodge execs are shooting for – no small “challenge” in a world interested in Toyota and BMW. How will Chrysler/Dodge achieve this result and still make a buck? The plan is to design identical vehicles for all countries. Both Dodge and Chrysler will create concepts appealing to those wanting something “identifiably American,” no matter where they live in the world.

2009’s Dodge Journey crossover was their first experiment – revealed in Europe before showing off on American soil. It can be equip with several different transmissions and a diesel engine for foreign buyers, but the outer shell will be a twin to the American vehicle. Chrysler 300 and Dodge Caliber models already do well overseas because they “stand out.” The next Dodge Challenger may have to be a bit “thinner” to fit down those narrow century-old England roads.

The Journey is best meant for such an excursion. The back end offers hidden cargo containers build into the trunk section, under the aft seats – perfect for a trip to Cosco. There are two glove boxes in the dash – the second being a chiller to keep water bottles or soda cans cool.

But you’re not only buying a car for how many Ikea desks can fit in the trunk. Performance is key when it comes to any Dodge vehicle. The base version of a Journey contains a 2.4-liter four cyl, sending 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque through the engine. The four-speed automatic delivers 19 mpg in the city and 25 in the EPA’s highway cycle. There’s also the V-6 2.7 liter engine sending you 186 horsepower but cutting your mileage down to 17 mpg city/23 highway.

Speed, strength and family fun – all starting at $19,985 (at least that is what Dodge is shooting for in an MSRP). Keep an eye out for the Dodge Journey in your area, and make sure you get one before your neighbor does.