Driving Impressions

These are smooth, quiet vehicles, particularly when measured by minivan standards. Additional sound-deadening measures have been added for 2005 that reduce wind noise. We found carrying on a conversation to be easy and pleasant (though that varied somewhat with whom we were conversing with). Ride quality is supple and well-controlled on the highway. The rack-and-pinion steering responds nicely and provides good feedback through the steering wheel. The Grand Caravan tracks true at highway speeds, so there's no need for constant, minor steering corrections. Indeed, the Dodge Grand Caravan offers superb driving dynamics. Grand Caravan rides more softly than an SUV, gliding over potholes rather than trying to beat them into submission. It's an excellent choice when transporting passengers on beat up freeways and bumpy urban streets. Grand Caravan's relatively tight turning radius makes getting into parking spaces easily. As with many of the latest aerodynamic designs, it isn't always easy to tell exactly where the front corners of the van are located. It's easy to tell where the rear is, but the height of the windows blocks the view of low objects, like that expensive sports car you don't want to scratch. Rear park-assist helps with this by lighting a series of small lights in the rear roof liner that are visible in the rearview mirror or when you turn around. The 3.8-liter V6 available for the Grand Caravan delivers strong power. This big V6 is responsive when merging into fast freeway traffic, accelerating from intersections, or passing on two-lane roads. The 3.8-liter engine is rated at 215 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque and employs a traditional overhead-valve design rather than the more contemporary overhead-cam setup found on many imports. We recommend anyone who regularly carries a heavy load of passengers get the 3.8-liter engine. An optional towing package is available with the 3.8-liter engine that raises the Caravan's trailer tow rating to a 3800 pounds. Models equipped with the 3.3-liter V6, have enough power to climb hills without breathing hard, and merging onto the freeway doesn't give you visions of your life insurance salesman. The engine is smooth and quiet when cruising, although it makes itself known under full-throttle acceleration. The 3.3-liter engine is rated 180 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, which is significantly less than the 3.8-liter. The 3.8-liter engine is rated 18/25 mpg City/Highway by the EPA, while the 3.3-liter is rated 19/26. Both are rated as low-emissions vehicles in all 50 states. The 3.3-liter V6 is a flexible-fuel engine, so it can use E85 ethanol. We haven't tested models with the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, but with just 150 horsepower and, more important, 167 pound-feet of torque, we don't expect it to be a rocket. It's rated 21/27 mpg. The Grand Caravan's brakes offer good feel, performance and durability. Standard brakes are discs in front with heavy-duty rotors and drums at the rear. ABS is standard on all Grand Caravans and optional on Caravan SXT; ABS allows the driver to brake and steer in a panic stop. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on Grand Caravan SXT. Disc brakes generally offer more resistance to brake fade (the tendency of the brakes to lose performance when heated by repeated use) than drum brakes.

Final Word

When it comes to switching between big loads of cargo, people and pets, Chrysler's new Stow 'n Go seating system makes the Dodge Grand Caravan one of the most versatile minivans available. Other revisions enhance refinement and add convenience. The Dodge Caravan's roomy interior offers convenient, carefree motoring. The driving experience is controlled and enjoyable. And there's lots of V6 power available in the lineup. A wide selection of models means there's a Caravan or Grand Caravan to fit most budgets.