Hey we had our journey r/t now for about 3 months and love it. The shifting is a little weird like you said I just assumed it was because of the awd. Our fuel mileage is averaging about 16 mpg. That is really not that good in my opinion I am going it gets better with breaking in. We will see, but overall we love this vehicle. Even though it's just us and our daughter we love having the 3rd row seating. Better to have it and not need it then need it and not have it. Well that's it for now. Enjoy your vehicle.