2009 Dodge Grand Caravan: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan lineup gains some new available features. This minivan is built from the same design as Chrysler's Town & Country. It is offered in a single-length Grand Caravan model in SE and SXT trim levels. Three V6 engines are offered. SE models have a 175-hp 3.3-liter. SXTs use a 197-hp 3.8. Optional on SXT is a 251-hp 4.0 V6. The 3.3 teams with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 3.8 and 4.0 engines use a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows. Newly available are a blind-spot alert system and a feature Chrysler calls "Rear Cross Path." This system activates when the transmission is in reverse, and it detects any traffic moving towards the vehicle.

All Grand Caravans seat up to seven. Standard is a 60/40 split 3rd-row bench seat that folds into the floor. A power-folding 3rd-row seat is available. The 2nd-row buckets can fold as part of Dodge's Stow 'n Go system, which is newly standard on Grand Caravan SE. With the seats raised, the floorwells provide storage space. The optional Flexible Seating Group includes Chrysler's Swivel 'n Go seating. Swivel 'n Go allows the 2nd-row buckets to turn 180 degrees and face backward. This seating arrangement includes a removable table that mounts between the 2nd and 3rd rows. The swiveling seats can be removed, but not folded into the cargo floor. Newly available on the 2009 Grand Caravan is Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite, which can include a wireless cell phone link, 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music and picture files, and a navigation system. A mid-year addition to the Grand Caravan lineup is the 25th Anniversary Package, which includes leather upholstery, heated front and 2nd-row seats, power liftgate, and specific trim. SXT models equipped with the 4.0-liter V6 engine get a revised sport suspension.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Long the choice as a 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 are the Chrysler Town and Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Honda Odyssey. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Entourage, Kia Sedona, and Toyota Sienna.

New for 2009 is the Volkswagen Routan.