2005 Dodge Caravan: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

First-time availability of curtain side airbags and fold-away 2nd- and 3rd-row seats highlight 2005 changes to Dodge's popular minivan. Caravan is built from the same design as Chrysler's Town & Country. It comes in regular- or extended-length body styles and in SE and SXT trim. All have 7-passenger seating. The regular-length SE has a 2.4-liter 4-cyl engine. Regular-length SXT and Grand SE have a 3.3-liter V6. Grand SXT gets a 3.8-liter V6. All come with automatic transmission. Traction control is standard on Grand SXT, but all-wheel drive is no longer offered. ABS is standard on Grands, optional on SXT regular. Newly standard on all is a driver knee airbag. Newly available are head-protecting curtain side airbags that cover all three seating rows; they replace front side airbags. Also available is a tire-inflation monitor.

Standard on the Grand SXT is Dodge's Stow 'n Go 2nd- and 3rd-row seats that fold into floorwells. With the seats raised, the wells provide covered storage space. Other available features include power sliding side doors, power liftgate, power-adjustable pedals, rear DVD entertainment, and navigation system. Newly available are Chrysler's UConnect, which uses the audio system as a hands-free wireless link to cell phones, and ceiling tracks that allow moving and removing such items as storage bins, a CD holder, and a first-aid kit.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Long the choice as the family hauler, Minivans are easily the smartest use of space for passengers and cargo. These vehicles offer a fantastic blend of comfort, convenience, and safety features for the modern family.

Our Best Buys include the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Honda Odyssey. Recommended picks are the Mazda MPV and Toyota Sienna.