2001-2003 Chrysler Voyager: Road Test

Considering a Voyager? Then go for the 3.3-liter V6, which furnishes the power required by a vehicle this size. Fuel economy is less than frugal with either engine. Otherwise, the Voyager offers many of the benefits of Chrysler's larger Town & Country minivan, and its Dodge Grand Caravan counterpart, for significantly fewer dollars. Still, there are important differences between the two Chrysler models, apart from their size. Both versions are carlike and friendly, roomy and comfortable, with good steering feel. Ride quality is better in a Town & Country, but the Voyager isn't harsh. Bigger wheels and tires give the Town & Country an edge over Voyager in handling and roadholding. Because of its shorter wheelbase, the Voyager tends to be jumpier, and less forgiving when rolling through bad pavement. Stopping power with the Voyager is adequate, though short of the Town & Country's with its antilock four-wheel disc setup. Voyagers rank as average in noise suppression, whereas the Town & Country is among the quietest minivans. Voyager owners can expect a fine driving position. The Voyager's shorter wheelbase results in just-adequate leg room in the second- and third-row positions, and in unexceptional cargo space with all seats in place. Third-row seats remove easily, but are less convenient than back seats in minivans with stowable seating. The available power side door's manual-override function is a surprising convenience. It stops and reverses direction quickly when encountering an obstruction. Chrysler's revamped dashboard moved controls closer to the driver, but the front cupholders block access to the in-dash CD changer.

Value for the Money
DaimlerChrysler's multimodel lineup has handily dominated the American minivan market. Soon after the fourth-generation models reached dealerships, they accounted for 62 percent of sales under $20,000 and 37 percent of those over $30,000. That's compelling testimony to the appeal of the entry-level Voyager and the luxury Town & Country. Both versions, bolstered by the 2001 redesign, now rank as stronger values than ever, even in the wake of increased minivan competition.