Acceleration

Base	Touring	Class Average
4	5	4.8

The 3.3 V6 is adequate in the regular-length model, but feels overmatched in extendeds for anything but light-duty work. Smooth, strong 3.8 provides plenty of muscle for most any need. Transmission works well with both engines.

Fuel Economy

Base	Touring	Class Average
4	4	4.1

Test Touring model averaged 18.5 mpg. Overburdened 3.3 should average 15-17 mpg in extendeds, only slightly better in the base model. Both engines use regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

Base	Touring	Class Average
6	7	6

Extended-length models absorb bumps better than most minivans, and ride about as comfortably as a large car. Base model's shorter wheelbase makes it jumpier, less forgiving on bad pavement.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	Touring	Class Average
5	5	4.7

Near-carlike stability in turns, fine around-town maneuverability. Good steering feel, braking power, and pedal modulation, though noticeable nosedive in sudden stops.

Quietness

Base	Touring	Class Average
6	6	5.9

Among the quieter minivans. Minimal wind, road and engine noise.

Controls

Base	Touring	Class Average
7	7	6.2

Generally clear, handy. Available three-zone climate system allows independent control of driver, front-passenger, rear-seat settings. Solid-feeling interior materials; decor ranges from plain cloth to supple leather.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	Touring	Class Average
7	7	6.9

Roomy, comfortable. Fine driver positioning. Adjustable pedals allow shorter drivers to sit farther from steering wheel airbag.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Touring	Class Average
7	7	6.9

Stow 'n Go seats reduce 2nd- and 3rd-row leg and toe room vs. standard seats in Grand Caravan, though still spacious enough for adequate adult comfort. Regular-length Town & Country actually has more 2nd- and 3rd-row leg room than extended version. Step-in easy through wide sliding doors. Override feature allows power side doors to be easily closed or opened by hand.

Cargo Room

Base	Touring	Class Average
10	10	10

Regular-length model has tight cargo space with all seats in place. Stow 'n Go seats fold easily into front and rear floorwells to lay flush with floor. With seats in place, 2nd-row floorwells provide about 12 cu ft of handy, covered storage. Rear well a boon to cargo space with 3rd row raised. Available power liftgate useful, reverses direction at slightest obstacle.

Value within Class

Base	Touring	Class Average
6	8	6.3

An outstanding blend of seating and cargo-carrying versatility, available safety features, and abundant comfort and luxury touches qualify the Town & Country as a Recommended pick. The main differences between Town & Country and its Dodge Caravan sibling are the grille appearance and what prestige may be associated with the Chrysler badge. Both are fine performers, with Town & Country's higher sticker prices partially offset by its higher resale values.

Total Score

Base	Touring	Class Average
62	66	61.8

Scores for all Minivans

Low Score		56
Average Score		61
High Score		71