We were in the market for a new vehicle and since my grandfather retired from Chrysler, it was a no brainer for us in terms of money. The Journey was our best deal. We got the crew with leather and sunroof, msrp was around 32,950 and we got it for 26,711. However, we wouldn't have bought the car if we didn't like it even though we knew we would have to spend a lot more on another brand.
I agree, if you are looking for a nice 7 passenger crossover, take a look at a Journey. You won't be disappointed.
BTW, what plant did your dad retire from? My grandfather retired in '83 from the plant in DE.