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Image credits: © Dodge.
MSRP: $21,930-27,140
Invoice: $20,220-24,855
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan news, pictures, and information | ||
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2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Reveal
All-New 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country Minivans Raise the Bar for the Minivan Segment- Fifth generation of -leading Chrysler Group minivans to arrive this fall
- All-new exterior and interior design for a more contemporary appearance
- Thirty-five new or improved features make the 2008 Chrysler Group minivans 'family rooms on wheels'
- Five models, three distinct seating and storage systems and three powertrains, including a minivan-first six-speed transaxle, offer the right ingredients for any active lifestyle
- B-roll available on the Chrysler Group media site. Go to Business -> Digital Archive -> Broadcast Video
The all-new 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans once again prove they have the right ingredients to be the best vehicles to move people and cargo. With 35 new and improved features, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country aren't just practical vehicles, they also have the right mix to be 'family rooms on wheels,' wîth something for everyone to enjoy.
'The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan spice up the minivan recipe by offering an all-new contemporary appearance, five different models, three distinct seating and storage systems, unmatched entertainment systems and the safety you expect and deserve,' said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Marketing, Chrysler Group. 'Add in three powertrain options, clever interior features and -leading functionality, and you have a recipe that will be a favorite wîth any family.
The newest ingredient for functional family seating is the all-new Swivel 'n Go™ seating system. Swivel 'n Go offers second row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row wîth a removable table that installs between the two rows, covered storage bins in the floor of the second row, third-row uncovered storage and fold-in-the-floor third-row seating. Swivel 'n Go also offers an available -first integrated child booster seat in the second-row quad chair and an available minivan-exclusive one-touch power-folding third-row 60/40 bench seat.
'Chrysler Group engineers turned the tables on traditional seat systems to come up wîth a technology that lets families have more choices of how to spend their time while traveling,' said Larry Lyons, Vice President – Front-wheel-drive Product Team, Chrysler Group. 'With Swivel 'n Go, second- and third-row passengers can face each other to have a conversation, play games or have a meal on the go.'
Safety is a key part of any minivan recipe, and that continues to be true wîth the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country. All-row supplemental side-curtain air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) wîth traction control and brake assist, LATCH child seat anchor system and a patented, energy-absorbing §teering column are among the standard safety features included in the 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans. Innovations like an -first integrated child booster seat, ParkView™ rear back-up camera, a rearview interior conversation mirror, integrated child safety seat and ParkSense® rear back-up system also ensure peace of mind while traveling.
Minivan Innovation Leadership
The modern minivan was invented by the former Chrysler Corporation in 1983. Since then, the Chrysler Group has sold more than 11 million minivans and invented more than 60 minivan firsts that not only have revolutionized the minivan §egmènt, but made their way into other vehicle §egmènts as well.
'Chrysler Group is the leader in bringing innovations to the minivan §egmènt, and those innovations seem to have an uncanny way of ending up in other products,' said Lyons. 'Integrated child safety seats, dual-zone temperature controls, a power liftgate and DVD entertainment are just some of the features that started in a minivan, but are now available in other vehicle §egmènts.'
For 2008, the Chrysler Town & Country (sold as the Chrysler Grand Voyager in most markets outside North America) and Dodge Grand Caravan offer value, functionality, safety and a package of innovative features that no other manufacturer can match. With 35 new or improved features, the all-new 2008 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan offer consumers a home away from home.
'The 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan offer the best amenities for today's busy families,' said Murphy. 'With a dual DVD system that plays different media at the same time, pinpoint LED lighting to read by, a table to play games or finish homework, a voice-activated navigation system wîth real-time traffic, power sliding doors and liftgate and YES Essentials® cloth seats, every member of the family will enjoy their journey.'
Únmatched Functionality and Entertainment 
The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country have spiced up the recipe for minivan success to include a place for everything. A premium, multi-function, front-row sliding console, dual glove boxes, second-row covered storage bins, third-row storage area and clever storage bins and pockets offer more places to store things than ever before.
Three distinct seating configurations are available for 2008 in North America. They include a second-row bench seat wîth second-row covered storage bins and third-row fold-in-the-floor seating, a Stow 'n Go® seating and storage system that offers the only second- and third-row fold-in-the-floor seats in the and the new Swivel 'n Go seating that allows the second row seats to swivel 180 degrees to face rearward. Swivel 'n Go also includes a removable table that fits between the second and third rows wîth a fold-in-the-floor third-row seat. A one-touch power-folding third-row seat also is available.
Available comfort and convenience features include a new, removable sliding front console that is large enough to store a purse; remote start; heated first- and second-row leather or cloth seats; rearview interior conversation mirror; YES Essentials stain-resistant, odor-resistant, anti-static cloth fabric; a removable flashlight in the rear quarter panel; first- and second-row power windows; second- and third-row retractable sun shades; power sliding doors; power liftgate wîth power button on the key fob and rear-pillar, ambient halo lighting; movable, pinpoint Light Emitting Diode (LED) reading lamps; map lights; and a dual- or tri-zone heating and cooling system.
'To get the best recipe of comfort, security and flexibility that fits any lifestyle, we added comfort features like remote start, heated first- and second-row cloth or leather seats and ambient lighting, then mixed in standard safety features like all-row supplemental side-curtain air bags and ESP,' said Ann Fandozzi, Director – Front-wheel-drive Product Marketing, Chrysler Group. 'Clever features found in the 2008 Chrysler Group minivans include a ‘Swiss-army-knife-like' sliding front console and a removable flashlight in the rear quarter panel.'
Entertainment features include a dual DVD, multimedia entertainment system that can play different media at the same time, MyGIG™ CD/DVD/HDD/MP3/satellite radio wîth voice-activated capability, touch screen and real-time traffic and navigation, ÚConnect hands-free communication system wîth Bluetooth® technology, mesh side pockets on the second-row seats that can hold iPods, hand-held gaming systems or beverages, 110V inverter, two second-row output/input jacks wîth a 12-volt power outlet and an overhead console wîth bins large enough to store headphones.
Model Lineup
Five models and three powertrains are available for the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country. Dodge offers two models: the Dodge Grand Caravan SE and Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. Chrysler offers three models: the Chrysler Town & Country LX, the Chrysler Town & Country Touring and the Chrysler Town & Country Limited.
Powertrain choices for North America include a new 4.0-liter V-6 aluminum engine mated to a new six-speed transaxle that produces 240 hp (179 kW) and 253 lb.-ft. (343 N•m) of torque, a 3.8-liter V-6 aluminum engine mated to a new six-speed transaxle that produces 198 hp (148 kW) and 230 lb.-ft. (312 N•m) of torque or a 3.3-liter flex-fuel-capable (FFV) V-6 aluminum engine mated to a four-speed transaxle that produces 170 hp (127 kW) and 205 lb.-ft. (278 N•m) of torque. The varied powertrain options provide a pleasant driving experience in a variety of conditions.
'Chrysler Group has been a leader in flex-fuel-capable vehicles,' said Lyons. 'We sold our first minivan capable of running on E85 in 1998, and since then, Chrysler Group has sold more than 1,330,000 flex-fuel minivans.'
Full model details and feature availability for markets outside the Únited States will be released ahead of the vehicles' launch in each respective market.
Manufacturing Information
The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans will be built at Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada and St. Louis South Assembly Plant in Fenton, Missouri.
The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country are expected to be in dealerships in the Únited States in the fall of 2007.
Chrysler Group Lowers Prices, Adds More Content, Performance and Standard Safety Features to the All-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan Minivans
• All-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SE model offers consumers $2,070 better value than its predecessor at $1,950 lower Ú.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)• All-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT model offers $2,015 more content at an MSRP that is $970 less than its predecessor
• All-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country LX model offers an MSRP that is $3,585 lower than its predecessor wîth $400 of additional standard content
• All-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Touring offers $2,395 better value than its predecessor at an $835 lower MSRP than the outgoing model • All-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Limited provides $2,350 added content at an MSRP $935 lower than its predecessor
 | Vital Stats |
| Engine : 4.0 L., 6-cylinder Power: 240 hp Torque: 253 ft-lbs Engine : 3.3 L., 6-cylinder Power: 170 hp Torque: 205 ft-lbs Engine : 3.8 L., 6-cylinder Power: 198 hp Torque: 230 ft-lbs | |
6-speed Automatic | |
Chrysler Group today announced Ú.S. pricing for the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country arriving in dealerships this fall. With 35 new or improved features, a new 4.0 liter V-6 engine mated to a minivan-first six-speed transaxle, more standard equipment including standard all-row side curtain air bags and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and an average Ú.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of roughly $2,000 less than outgoing models, the all-new 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans offer customers a 'family room on wheels' for just about every lifestyle and price point.
2008 Dodge Minivans The starting Ú.S. MSRP of the new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is $22,470 (including $730 destination).
'The new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan offers consumers a $3,400 better value than its predecessor,' said Mike Accavitti, Director — Dodge Brand Marketing. 'We were able to lower the price on Grand Caravan models an average of $1,460 while adding an average of $2,000 in standard content across the lineup, offering consumers a fantastic package of clever features, world-class entertainment options, -leading seating and storage options and a minivan-first six-speed transaxle at a price that makes sense.'
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SE
With a Ú.S. MSRP starting at $22,470 (including $730 destination), the Dodge Grand Caravan SE offers exceptional value for an entry-level minivan. Some of the standard features included are a 3.3-liter V-6 engine that produces 175 hp (131 kW) and 205 lb.-ft. (278 N•m) of torque mated to a four-speed transaxle and is a flex-fuel engine, capable of running on E85, a renewable fuel; advanced multistage driver and low risk deployment front passenger air bags; supplemental all-row side-curtain air bags wîth added rollover protection; Electronic Stability Program (ESP) wîth Brake Assist and traction control; four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes; brake-park interlock; tire pressure monitoring system; LATCH child seat anchor system; overhead console that includes a rearview interior conversation mirror wîth sunglass holder; standard front-row center floor console wîth four removable, dishwasher safe cup holders; power door locks; dual, manual sliding doors; first- and second-row bottle holders; dual glove boxes; third-row rear seatback grocery bag hooks; halogen headlamps wîth headlamp-off time delay; manual liftgate wîth single floodlamp; 12-volt power outlets in the instrument panel and rear quarter trim; AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio wîth four speaker sound system; Sentry Key® remote, keyless, illuminated entry wîth anti-theft engine immobilizer; removable second-row two-passenger bench seat and third-row 60/40 split bench seat that folds into the floor; second-row, in-floor covered storage bins; DoorAlert; FOB Integrated Key (FOBIK); tire pressure monitoring system; 16-inch steel wheels; power front windows wîth one-touch down and driver side on-touch up and intermittent front and rear wipers.
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT With a starting Ú.S. MSRP of $27,535 (including $730 destination), the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT offers premium amenities wîth a sporty, grown-up appearance. In addition to the standard features on the Dodge Grand Caravan SE model, some of the standard features the Grand Caravan SXT model adds are a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that produces 197 hp and 230 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a minivan-first six-speed automatic transaxle; Stow ‘n Go® seating and storage system; second-row power windows and third-row power vents; YES Essentials® anti-static, anti-odor, anti-stain cloth seats and floor mats; power adjustable pedals; three-zone manual temperature control; 115-volt power inverter, power adjustable pedals, single rear, full-length, overhead console system wîth storage bins; second- and third-row moveable LED lamps; LED halo light ring that emits a soft greenish-blue light; HomeLink Úniversal Transceiver wîth programmable, three-function wîth remote control garage door opener and interior/exterior home lighting or security devices; illuminated vanity mirrors; eight-way power driver seat; manual driver lumbar support; leather-wrapped shift knob and §teering wheel wîth §teering-wheel-mounted audio controls; six speaker sound system; speed control wîth §teering wheel-mounted controls and trip computer wîth temperature and compass display in instrument cluster.
Available features include the Swivel ‘n Go™ seat system; 4.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 251 hp and 259 lb.-ft. of torque; ParkSense® back-up assist system; ParkView® rear back-up camera; heated first- and second-row seats in cloth or leather; AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3/HDD MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System wîth or without navigation and includes ÚConnect® Handsfree communication system, SIRIÚS Satellite Radio; SIRIÚS Backseat TV satellite video wîth three channels of family programming that includes Disney Channel, Nickelodeon Mobile and Cartoon Network Mobile; a minivan-first one-touch power folding third-row seat; remote start; a premium, removable sliding front center floor console wîth four cup holders, multiple storage bins and 12-volt power outlet; power sunroof; single or dual DVD entertainment systems and 17-inch aluminum wheels.
2008 Chrysler Minivans
The starting Ú.S. MSRP of the new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country LX is $23,190 (including $730 destination).
'Offering consumers cutting edge amenities and value for their dollar was a prime consideration in the development of the new Chrysler Town & Country minivan,' said David Rooney, Director - Chrysler Brand. 'The heritage of the original luxury minivan is evident in the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country, but wîth an updated style and flair. We've added 35 new or improved features that continue the Chrysler tradition of offering premium amenities without the premium price. In fact, we lowered the price of the Town & Country LX by more than $3,500 and added $400 more content.'2008 Chrysler Town & Country LX
With a starting Ú.S. MSRP of $23,190 (including $730 destination), the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country LX offers premium amenities without the premium price. Standard features on the Chrysler Town & Country LX include a 3.3-liter V-6 engine that produces 175 hp (131 kW) and 205 lb.-ft. (278 N•m) of torque and is mated to a four-speed transaxle. The 3.3-liter engine is a flex-fuel engine capable of running on E85, a renewable fuel. (concept carz) Some of the other standard features included are an advanced multistage driver air bag and front passenger low risk deployment air bag; supplemental all-row side curtain air bag wîth added rollover protection; ESP wîth brake assist and traction control; passenger assist handles located on the A-pillar, B-pillar and headliner above the sliding passenger doors; four-wheel anti-lock brakes; brake-park interlock; LATCH child seat anchor system; analog clock; overhead console that includes a rearview interior conversation mirror wîth sunglass holder; standard front-row center floor console wîth four removable, dishwasher safe cup holders; rear window defroster; power door locks; dual manual-sliding doors; sunscreen glass; first- and second-row bottle holders; dual glove boxes; third-row rear seatback grocery bag hooks; halogen quad headlamps wîth headlamp-off time delay; manual liftgate wîth single floodlamp; 12-volt power outlets in the instrument panel and rear quarter trim; AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio wîth four speaker sound system; Sentry Key remote, keyless, illuminated entry wîth anti-theft engine immobilizer; YES Essentials anti-stain, anti-odor, anti-static fabric seats; removable second-row two-passenger bench seat and third-row 60/40 split bench seat that folds into the floor; second-row, in-floor covered storage bins; DoorAlert; power rack and pinion §teering; FOBIK; tire pressure monitoring system; 16-inch steel wheels; power front windows wîth driver-side one-touch down and intermittent front and rear wipers.
2008 Chrysler Town & Country Touring
With a starting Ú.S. MSRP of $28,430 (including $730 destination), the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Touring minivan offers customers luxury amenities at a price they can afford. In addition to those offered on the Chrysler Town & Country LX, some of the standard features the Chrysler Town & Country Touring adds include: a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that produces 197 hp (147 kW) and 230 lb.-ft. (312 N•m) of torque and is mated to a new, minivan-first six-speed transaxle; Stow ‘n Go seating and storage system; power sliding driver side and passenger doors; power liftgate; HomeLink Úniversal Tranceiver; rear, moveable courtesy/reading lamps; door courtesy lamp; removable, rechargeable LED flashlight; fog lamps; illuminated visor vanity; foldaway, power-heated body-color exterior mirrors; power adjustable pedals; 115-volt inverter located on the front of the driver-side C-pillar trim panel; roof rack; eight-way power driver seat; leather-wrapped shift knob and §teering wheel wîth §teering wheel mounted audio controls; six-speaker sound system and 16-inch aluminum wheels.
2008 Chrysler Town & Country Limited With a starting Ú.S. MSRP of $36,400 (including $730 destination), the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Limited sets the standard for luxury minivans. In addition to the standard equipment included on the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Touring model, the Town & Country Limited also includes a new 4.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 251 hp (189 kW) and 259 lb.-ft. (350 N•m) of torque and is mated to a new, minivan-first six-speed transaxle; three-zone automatic temperature control; luxury front- and second-row floor mats; High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps; auto-dimming rearview mirror; power, foldaway, heated multifunction chrome mirrors wîth supplemental side signals and driver-side memory; ParkSense rear park assist system, MyGIG AM/FM/CD/DVD/HDD/MP3 Multimedia Entertainment system, ParkView rear back-up camera and SIRIÚS satellite radio; remote start system; leather-trimmed first- and second-row seats wîth suede microfiber accents; security alarm; premium sound system which includes ten speakers wîth a minivan-first subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier; premium removable front center console that slides rearward 21 inches and offers four cup holders, a 12-volt power outlet and multiple storage areas; premium tire pressure monitoring system wîth Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) and 17-inch chrome-clad wheels.
Available equipment for the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country models includes Swivel ‘n Go seat system; three-zone automatic temperature control; remote start; foldaway, power-heated chrome mirrors that include supplemental signals and driver-side memory; auto-dimming exterior driver side mirror; Parksense rear park assist system; ParkView rear back-up camera; SIRIÚS Satellite Radio; SIRIÚS Backseat TV satellite TV wîth three channels of family programming including Disney Channel, Nickelodeon Mobile and Cartoon Network Mobile; heated first- and second-row seats (cloth or leather); second- and third-row retractable sunshades; premium sound system which includes ten speakers wîth a minivan-first subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier; premium removable front center console that slides rearward 21 inches and offers four cup holders, a 12-volt power outlet and multiple storage areas; premium tire pressure monitoring system wîth EVIC; integrated child booster seat (late availability); power sunroof; remote start; one-touch power folding third-row seat; sunroof; trailer tow package; single or dual DVD entertainment systems and 17-inch aluminum wheels.
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Pricing:
Following is Ú.S. MSRP for the new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan models. (All prices include $730 destination.)
2008 MSRP Outgoing MSRP
Grand Caravan SE: $22,470 $24,420
Grand Caravan SXT: $27,535 $28,505
Chrysler Town & Country Pricing:
Following is Ú.S. MSRP for the new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country models. (All prices
include $730 destination.)
2008 MSRP Outgoing MSRP
Town & Country LX: $23,190 $26,775
Town & Country Touring: $28,430 $29,265
Town & Country Limited: $36,400 $37,335Source - Chrysler Group
Chrysler Group LLC to Recall 2008 Minivans to Replace Occupant Restraint Control Module.
Chrysler Group LLC is recalling 299,718 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans to replace the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) modules. The ORC modules may have been exposed to moisture and could eventually experience an illumination of the airbag light wîth the potential for an inadvertent airbag deployment.This announcement follows a prior recall of the same vehicles in January of 2011 to replace the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) drain grommet, which had the potential to leak moisture into the area of the ORC module.
Chrysler engineers have determined that the printed circuit board in ORC modules previously exposed to moisture could delaminate over time, despite the elimination of the source of prior moisture. This potential delamination could lead to a disruption in the circuitry and compromise airbag performance.
Chrysler reports it is unaware of any accidents or injuries related to the condition in vehicles that have had the prior recall completed. 'Despite the lack of field reports, we believe it is in the best interest of our customers to replace these modules to ensure the proper functionality of the minivan's advanced safety system,' said David Dillon, Head of Product Investigations and Campaigns. Most of the vehicles involved are sold in the Únited States; there are also 50,251 vehicles in Canada; 3,748 vehicles in Mexico, and 13,633 export models.
Chrysler will begin sending letters to customers in September to schedule appointments wîth dealership service departments for a no-charge repair. Dealer service personnel will replace the ORC modules at no cost to the customer.
Source - Dodge
In the late 1970s, Baby Boomers were reaching adulthood and starting families in large numbers. But sedans and station wagons, the traditional standard-bearers among family transportation vehicles, were becoming smaller in response to concerns about pollution and fuel efficiency – and their passenger and cargo capacity was being reduced. Vans created for the commercial delivery market were being customized as passenger vehicles, but their large size, inefficiency and front-engine, rear-wheel drive configurations made them unsatisfactory substitutes for wagons and sedans as family transportation vehicles. Únder the leadership of executives Lee Iacocca and Hal Sperlich, Chrysler initiated development of a new type of vehicle that would offer considerable passenger and cargo-carrying space in a family-friendly package.
Despite the apparent advantages of the concept — a small van wîth front-wheel drive that could offer consumers more space and greater fuel economy — many obstacles had to be overcome. The final design needed to be low enough to fit in a typical home garage and travel through a standard car wash. The proposed front-wheel drivetrain, which permitted a flat floor and created more interior room, also required special front-end styling considerations, including a functional 'nose' to house the engine and offer 'crush space' in case of accident. Once all those criteria were met, the new concept – not really a car, not really a truck — had to be styled as an attractive, family vehicle that would appeal to a broad spectrum of potential buyers.
The result was referred to within Chrysler as the 'T-115' – but ultimately branded as the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. Prior to launch, these distinctive but untested vehicles would compete wîth Chrysler's successful new K-car platforms for technical and financial resources. But, following its runaway success, it would be this new product, soon popularly described as the 'minivan,' that brought consumers – lots of them – into Chrysler dealerships.
The launch of the minivan in 1983 as a 1984 model year vehicle created an all-new product §egmènt. Car and Driver described it as 'the only American-built van that's not a truck,' noting that the T-115 was ten inches narrower, 15 inches lower and about four feet shorter than the most popular conventional vans. Observed Road & Track, 'Chrysler is betting there's a big market for a van of this size and is aiming it at current station wagon owners; those who already own larger, less efficient club wagons; growing families; those who need station wagons but hate the stodgy suburban image; women who aren't comfortable driving large conventional vans; people who used to own full-sized sedans and like plenty of interior room, and those who just enjoy the sheer novelty of the vehicle.'
The company's bet was well placed. One day in 1983, when members of Chrysler's Houston zone office drove to lunch in a newly-delivered minivan, a lady approached them in the restaurant's parking lot and unhesitatingly asked, 'What is this and where can I buy one?' The initial marketing, featuring popular magician Doug Henning, aptly described the vehicle as 'The Magic Wagon.'
1984-1990 model years: The first-generation Chrysler minivans were based on the S platform, a derivative of the Chrysler K platform used for the Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant passenger cars. Three trim levels were available on the first Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager models – a base level, the 'mainstream' SE and the 'upscale' LE, which featured vinyl 'woodgrain' side panels. The standard four-cylinder engine could be mated wîth a three-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission or a five-speed manual. An early Chrysler minivan featuring the rare turbocharged 2.5-liter engine (available only in 1989 and 1990) is now considered a collector's item by many.
Both the Caravan and the Voyager were on Car and Driver magazine's 'Ten Best' list for 1985.
The Mini-Ram Van, a cargo version of the Caravan, also appeared in 1984. Renamed the Caravan C/V in 1989, it was discontinued after the 1995 model year.
In 1987, the Caravan and Voyager received some cosmetic updates – and new, longer-wheelbase Grand Caravan and Grand Voyager models were introduced.
1990 model year: The Chrysler Town & Country, a luxury version of the Chrysler minivan, was introduced (see the Town & Country Heritage section). The Town & Country nameplate dated to 1941 and had been used on a variety of Chrysler vehicles until 1988.
The standard Town & Country minivan was considered 'loaded,' wîth no optional trim levels. Power locks, windows, mirrors and driver's seat, front and rear air conditioning and leather seats were all standard. The 3.8-liter V-6 engine was made standard in the Town & Country in 1994.
1991-1996 model years: Chrysler's hot-selling minivans were freshened for the 1991 model year, and more option packages became available. Innovations included 'Quad Command' bucket seating (standard on the Town & Country beginning in 1992); integrated child safety seats (1992), available anti-lock brakes (1992), the first driver's side airbag in a minivan (1991, made standard in 1992), and the first dual front airbags (1994). This was the first minivan to meet 1998 Ú.S. federal safety standards (1994).
The 1991-1995 minivans used the AS platform, the last to be derived from the Chrysler K platform. Special '10-Year Anniversary Edition' trim packages were offered in 1994.
1996-2000 model years: Completely redesigned, the 1996 Chrysler minivans debuted in an elaborate program at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, during which Chrysler Chairman Bob Eaton and President Bob Lutz, dressed in Mr. Rogers-style cardigan sweaters, delivered the story of the new minivan from giant storybooks, then watched as one – wîth television character Kermit the Frog in the driver's window – soared over an artificial pond. It was Chrysler's way of giving notice that this new NS minivan would 'leapfrog' all competitors.
Spectacularly upgraded from its predecessor models, the NS was named Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year for 1996 – and appeared on the Car and Driver 'Ten Best' list for 1996 and 1997.
An -first driver's side sliding door proved so popular it was made standard. The manual transmission was dropped and all-wheel drive added. Base models were offered in most states wîth either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a Mitsubishi 3.0-liter V-6. In California and several northeastern states wîth stringent emissions standards, a 3.3-liter engine was offered as a V-6 option between 1997 and 2000. Options added over the life of the NS included CD players, grocery-bag hooks and a rear-seat video entertainment system.
With the demise of the Plymouth brand, the Voyager was rebadged as the Chrysler Voyager after 2001, later becoming the short-wheelbase version of the Town & Country in 2004.
2001-2007 model years: The most recent generation of Chrysler minivans rode on the RS platform. Another benchmark of modern-day Chrysler engineering innovation, the Stow ‘n Go second- and third-row foldable seating system, was introduced in 2005. Power sliding doors and a power hatch, options beginning in 2001, later became standard.
Freshening the exterior, continually adding new safety features and providing additional cargo space, better entertainment systems, more cupholders, grocery hooks and other family-friendly features has kept Chrysler's minivans at the top of their §egmènt in popularity and sales.
2008 model year: Chrysler is now positioned to again make minivan history. In addition to thoroughly updating the many successful features of their predecessors, the new Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans offer one-of-a-kind available features like Swivel ‘n Go second-row seats, which revolve to face the rear seats. A table can be placed between the second- and third-row seats, providing a convenient place for passengers to read, work or enjoy meals and games.
Both these features reflect well on Chrysler's proud heritage of innovative engineering: swivel bucket seats were standard on top-of-the-line Chrysler passenger cars in the late 1950s, and in the 1960s the Chrysler Imperial featured a 'Mobile Director' option, in which the front passenger's bucket seat swiveled 180 degrees to the rear and the center rear armrest unfolded to create a three-position conference table. The all-new 2008 minivan effectively updates these once-revolutionary ideas for the 21st Century, writing the latest chapter in Chrysler's continuing saga of -leading engineering.Source - Dodge
For more information and related vehicles, click hereDespite the apparent advantages of the concept — a small van wîth front-wheel drive that could offer consumers more space and greater fuel economy — many obstacles had to be overcome. The final design needed to be low enough to fit in a typical home garage and travel through a standard car wash. The proposed front-wheel drivetrain, which permitted a flat floor and created more interior room, also required special front-end styling considerations, including a functional 'nose' to house the engine and offer 'crush space' in case of accident. Once all those criteria were met, the new concept – not really a car, not really a truck — had to be styled as an attractive, family vehicle that would appeal to a broad spectrum of potential buyers.
The result was referred to within Chrysler as the 'T-115' – but ultimately branded as the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. Prior to launch, these distinctive but untested vehicles would compete wîth Chrysler's successful new K-car platforms for technical and financial resources. But, following its runaway success, it would be this new product, soon popularly described as the 'minivan,' that brought consumers – lots of them – into Chrysler dealerships.
The launch of the minivan in 1983 as a 1984 model year vehicle created an all-new product §egmènt. Car and Driver described it as 'the only American-built van that's not a truck,' noting that the T-115 was ten inches narrower, 15 inches lower and about four feet shorter than the most popular conventional vans. Observed Road & Track, 'Chrysler is betting there's a big market for a van of this size and is aiming it at current station wagon owners; those who already own larger, less efficient club wagons; growing families; those who need station wagons but hate the stodgy suburban image; women who aren't comfortable driving large conventional vans; people who used to own full-sized sedans and like plenty of interior room, and those who just enjoy the sheer novelty of the vehicle.' The company's bet was well placed. One day in 1983, when members of Chrysler's Houston zone office drove to lunch in a newly-delivered minivan, a lady approached them in the restaurant's parking lot and unhesitatingly asked, 'What is this and where can I buy one?' The initial marketing, featuring popular magician Doug Henning, aptly described the vehicle as 'The Magic Wagon.'
The Chrysler minivan was an instant success and, despite spirited competition from other automakers over three decades, has always been the best-selling minivan in the Únited States.
1984-1990 model years: The first-generation Chrysler minivans were based on the S platform, a derivative of the Chrysler K platform used for the Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant passenger cars. Three trim levels were available on the first Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager models – a base level, the 'mainstream' SE and the 'upscale' LE, which featured vinyl 'woodgrain' side panels. The standard four-cylinder engine could be mated wîth a three-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission or a five-speed manual. An early Chrysler minivan featuring the rare turbocharged 2.5-liter engine (available only in 1989 and 1990) is now considered a collector's item by many. Both the Caravan and the Voyager were on Car and Driver magazine's 'Ten Best' list for 1985.
The Mini-Ram Van, a cargo version of the Caravan, also appeared in 1984. Renamed the Caravan C/V in 1989, it was discontinued after the 1995 model year.
In 1987, the Caravan and Voyager received some cosmetic updates – and new, longer-wheelbase Grand Caravan and Grand Voyager models were introduced. 1990 model year: The Chrysler Town & Country, a luxury version of the Chrysler minivan, was introduced (see the Town & Country Heritage section). The Town & Country nameplate dated to 1941 and had been used on a variety of Chrysler vehicles until 1988.
The standard Town & Country minivan was considered 'loaded,' wîth no optional trim levels. Power locks, windows, mirrors and driver's seat, front and rear air conditioning and leather seats were all standard. The 3.8-liter V-6 engine was made standard in the Town & Country in 1994.
1991-1996 model years: Chrysler's hot-selling minivans were freshened for the 1991 model year, and more option packages became available. Innovations included 'Quad Command' bucket seating (standard on the Town & Country beginning in 1992); integrated child safety seats (1992), available anti-lock brakes (1992), the first driver's side airbag in a minivan (1991, made standard in 1992), and the first dual front airbags (1994). This was the first minivan to meet 1998 Ú.S. federal safety standards (1994). The 1991-1995 minivans used the AS platform, the last to be derived from the Chrysler K platform. Special '10-Year Anniversary Edition' trim packages were offered in 1994.
1996-2000 model years: Completely redesigned, the 1996 Chrysler minivans debuted in an elaborate program at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, during which Chrysler Chairman Bob Eaton and President Bob Lutz, dressed in Mr. Rogers-style cardigan sweaters, delivered the story of the new minivan from giant storybooks, then watched as one – wîth television character Kermit the Frog in the driver's window – soared over an artificial pond. It was Chrysler's way of giving notice that this new NS minivan would 'leapfrog' all competitors.
Spectacularly upgraded from its predecessor models, the NS was named Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year for 1996 – and appeared on the Car and Driver 'Ten Best' list for 1996 and 1997. An -first driver's side sliding door proved so popular it was made standard. The manual transmission was dropped and all-wheel drive added. Base models were offered in most states wîth either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a Mitsubishi 3.0-liter V-6. In California and several northeastern states wîth stringent emissions standards, a 3.3-liter engine was offered as a V-6 option between 1997 and 2000. Options added over the life of the NS included CD players, grocery-bag hooks and a rear-seat video entertainment system.
With the demise of the Plymouth brand, the Voyager was rebadged as the Chrysler Voyager after 2001, later becoming the short-wheelbase version of the Town & Country in 2004.
2001-2007 model years: The most recent generation of Chrysler minivans rode on the RS platform. Another benchmark of modern-day Chrysler engineering innovation, the Stow ‘n Go second- and third-row foldable seating system, was introduced in 2005. Power sliding doors and a power hatch, options beginning in 2001, later became standard.
Freshening the exterior, continually adding new safety features and providing additional cargo space, better entertainment systems, more cupholders, grocery hooks and other family-friendly features has kept Chrysler's minivans at the top of their §egmènt in popularity and sales.
2008 model year: Chrysler is now positioned to again make minivan history. In addition to thoroughly updating the many successful features of their predecessors, the new Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans offer one-of-a-kind available features like Swivel ‘n Go second-row seats, which revolve to face the rear seats. A table can be placed between the second- and third-row seats, providing a convenient place for passengers to read, work or enjoy meals and games.
Both these features reflect well on Chrysler's proud heritage of innovative engineering: swivel bucket seats were standard on top-of-the-line Chrysler passenger cars in the late 1950s, and in the 1960s the Chrysler Imperial featured a 'Mobile Director' option, in which the front passenger's bucket seat swiveled 180 degrees to the rear and the center rear armrest unfolded to create a three-position conference table. The all-new 2008 minivan effectively updates these once-revolutionary ideas for the 21st Century, writing the latest chapter in Chrysler's continuing saga of -leading engineering.Source - Dodge
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