Dodge Caravan

Dodge Caravan

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Dodge Caravan/Dodge Grand

Caravan

2011 Dodge Grand Caravan Mainstreet

Overview

Manufacturer Chrysler (formerly DaimlerChrysler

from 1998 to 2007)

Production November 2, 1983[1]

present

Model years 1984present

Assembly Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Dodge

Canada)

Body and chassis

Class Minivan

Layout

Transverse front-engine, front-wheel

drive (1984present) Transverse front-engine, all-wheel

drive (19922004)

Related

Plymouth Voyager

Chrysler Town & Country

Dodge Mini Ram

Chrysler Grand Voyager

Lancia Voyager

Volkswagen Routan

Chronology

Successor Dodge Journey (short-wheelbase

version only)

The Dodge Caravan is a family minivan manufactured by Chrysler Group LLC and sold

under its Dodge brand. The Caravan was introduced for the 1984 model year along with its

nameplate variant, the Plymouth Voyager (1984-2001). In 1987, the Dodge Grand

Caravan long-wheelbase (LWB) model was introduced and sold alongside the short-

wheelbase (SWB) Caravan. The SWB model was discontinued after the 2007 model year;

and, since the 2008 model year, the vehicle is marketed under the Grand Caravan

nameplate.

Other automobile platform variants of the Caravan include the Chrysler Voyager (1988present), the upmarket Chrysler Town & Country (1989present), and Chrysler Grand Voyager (Sold as a Lancia in mainland Europe), as well as the Volkswagen Routan (20082012).

Chrysler manufactures and markets its minivans worldwide. Combining the nameplate

variants, the Chrysler minivans rank as the 13th best-selling automotive nameplate

worldwide.[2]

Contents

1 Overview

2 Generation I (19841990) o 2.1 Transmissions

o 2.2 Engines

3 Generation II (19901995) o 3.1 Engines

4 Generation III (19962000) o 4.1 Engines

o 4.2 Concepts

o 4.3 Dodge Caravan EPIC

o 4.4 Crash test results

5 Generation IV (20012007) o 5.1 Engines

o 5.2 IIHS results

6 Generation V (2008present) o 6.1 Initial release

6.1.1 Engines

6.1.2 Safety

o 6.2 2011 model year update

o 6.3 2014 model year update

o 6.4 Future

o 6.5 Sales

o 6.6 Europe

o 6.7 Ram Cargo Van (Ram C/V Tradesman)

o 6.8 Volkswagen Routan

7 Trims

o 7.1 Current

o 7.2 Former

8 Seating features

o 8.1 Integrated child safety seats

o 8.2 Easy-Out Roller Seats

o 8.3 Stow N Go seating o 8.4 Swivel 'n Go seating

9 Production

10 Notes

11 External links

Overview

Chrysler introduced the Dodge and Plymouth minivans in November 1983 for the 1984

model year, using an extended derivative of the Chrysler K platform, the Chrysler S

platform. Chrysler followed with a long wheelbase (LWB) model, the Grand Caravan in

1987, also based on the Chrysler S platform.

Lee Iacocca and Hal Sperlich had conceived their idea for this type of vehicle during their

earlier tenure at Ford Motor Company. Henry Ford II rejected the idea (and a prototype) of

a minivan in 1974. Iaccoca followed Sperlich to Chrysler Corporation, and together they

created the T115 minivan a prototype that was to become the Caravan and Voyager, known colloquially as the "Magic-wagons" (a term used in advertising).

[3]

The Chrysler minivans launched a few months ahead of the Renault Espace (the first

MPV/minivan in Europe, initially presented to executives as a Talbot in 1979,[4]

but not

launched until 1984), making them the first of their kind effectively creating the modern minivan segment in the U.S. The original Matra design for the Renault Espace was created

when Matra was owned by Chrysler Corporation, so Chrysler may also be credited with

originating the minivan concept in Europe as well.[3]

1986 Dodge Caravan at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History

Since their introduction in the fall of 1983, the Chrysler minivans have outsold other

minivans in the United States,[5]

with over 13 million Chrysler, Dodge and Plymouth

minivans[5]

in over 80 countries[5]

sold as of October 2008. Only recently has Chrysler

ceded the top-selling minivan spot to the Honda Odyssey,[5]

if Dodge Grand Caravan and

Chrysler Town & Country sales are considered separately.

Generation I (19841990)

Generation I

Overview

Also called Dodge Grand Caravan (LWB Model)

Dodge Caravan (SWB Model)

Production October 19831990

Model years 19841990

Body and chassis

Body style 3-door minivan

Layout Transverse front-engine, front-wheel

drive

Platform Chrysler S platform

Related


Plymouth Voyager

Dodge Mini Ram

Chrysler Voyager (Europe only)

Powertrain

Engine

2.2 L K I4

2.5 L K I4

2.5 L Turbo I4

2.6 L Mitsubishi G54B I4

3.0 L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6

3.3 L EGA V6

Transmission

4-speed A460 manual

5-speed manual

3-speed A413 automatic




Dimensions

Wheelbase

19841988 SWB: 112.1 in (2,847 mm)

Grand Caravan & C/V Extended:

119.1 in (3,025 mm)

19891990 SWB & C/V: 112 in (2,844.8 mm)

Length

SWB & C/V: 175.9 in (4,468 mm)

Grand Caravan: 190.5 in (4,839 mm)

19891990 LE SWB: 177.3 in (4,503 mm)

19891990 Grand Caravan LE: 191.9 in (4,874 mm)

C/V Extended: 190.6 in (4,841 mm)

Width 19841988: 69.5 in (1,765 mm) 19891990: 72 in (1,829 mm)

Height

19841988 SWB: 64.4 in (1,636 mm) 19871988 Grand Caravan: 65 in (1,651 mm)

C/V: 64.2 in (1,631 mm)

19891990 SWB: 64.6 in (1,641 mm) 19891990 Grand Caravan: 64.8 in (1,646 mm)

Generation I Caravans used the Chrysler S platform, which was closely related to the K-

cars, Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant. There were three trim levels on the Generation I

Caravan: base, mainstream SE, and upscale LE. The Caravan was on Car and Driver

magazine's Ten Best list for 1985. All trim levels were also available in a slightly longer

body, called the Grand Caravan, which allowed significantly more cargo space behind the

rear seat. Most of the interior trim, controls, and instrumentation were borrowed from the

K-car, leading to a very "car-like" interior look and feel. Coupled with the lower floor that

the front-wheel-drive design allowed, this helped to make the Caravan seem more like a

large station wagon than a van, enticing many buyers who would not have otherwise been

comfortable driving a van.

The vans came equipped for seven passengers in three rows of seating, putting it between a

typical twelve-passenger/four-row full-size van and a six-passenger/two-row large sedan.

Two bucket seats with attached armrests and open floor space between them in the front, a

2 person bench seat in the second row, and a 3 person bench seat in the back row. The two

bench seats in the rear were independently removable, and the large 3 person bench could

also be installed in the 2nd row location via a second set of attachment points on the van's

floor, ordinarily hidden with snap-in plastic covers. This configuration allowed for

conventional 5 person seating with a sizable cargo area in the rear. The latching

mechanisms for the benches were very intuitive and easy to operate. The act of moving the

seats, however, typically required 2 adults, and lifting them back into the van was a very

awkward procedure. A front low-back 60/40 split bench, accommodating a third front

passenger in the middle, was offered in the SE trim level in 1985 only, allowing for a

maximum of 9 passengers in the van with two 3-passenger rear benches installed. Despite

increasing seating capacity, this was not repeated due to poor sales. Eight-passenger

models, with 2 front bucket seats and two 3-passenger rear benches, were offered in the

Grand Caravan from 1987 to 1990.

Safety features were typical of vans of the era, and consisted of 3-point seat belts for the

front two passengers, with simple lap belts for the rear 5. Seats on base models and cloth-

trimmed SEs had no headrests, which were not mandated due to the van's "light truck" legal

status. However, the two front seats were equipped with non-adjustable headrests on the LE

model and in conjunction with vinyl upholstery on the SE. Side-impact reinforcements

were mandated, and were at all seating positions front and rear. Neither Airbags nor ABS

were available.

Access to the rear rows of seating was by a large sliding door on the passenger side. The

sliding door allowed easier access in a confined suburban garage, compared to the double

doors found on most full-size vans of the era. Because only one sliding door was offered,

the smaller 2nd row bench seat was installed off center, shifted to the drivers side of the

van, to allow easy passenger access to the 3rd row seat. The cargo area behind the rear seat

was very limited on the standard short body model, however, the seat could be adjusted

forward in 2 increments, the first of which removed roughly 6 inches (150 mm) of legroom

from the back row passengers, and the second of which would push the bench all the way to

the back of the 2nd row, making the seats unusable. The seatback of the rear bench could

also be folded forward, providing a flat cargo shelf. The smaller 2nd row bench was not

adjustable, nor foldable; it could only be removed entirely.

Cargo access to the rear was via a hatchback, similar to the one on the K-Car station

wagons. The hatch was hinged at the top and held open by gas struts, and it was the source

of much confusion among Caravan owners. It could only be released by the key, or by a

button on the driver's control panel; it did not have a traditional door handle. Once the hatch

had been "popped", the key could be removed, and the hatch lifted by a handhold above the

license plate holder. However, many owners did not identify the handhold area, and instead

used the turned key as a handle to lift the hatch, resulting in many broken keys.

A cargo version of the Caravan, called the Mini Ram Van, was also introduced in 1984. It

was renamed as the Caravan C/V for 1989, and was discontinued after 1995. It was

available either with the short- or long-wheelbase models. Unique to the Caravan C/V was

the option of either having the traditional hatch door in the back or the optional "barn

doors" (with or without windows), swing-out versions similar to those of more traditional

cargo vans. These doors were made of fiberglass and required the C/V vans to be "drop

shipped", as these doors were custom installed by another vendor. Also based on the C/V

were conversion vans. These were also "drop shipped" as they were done by aftermarket

vendors.

19841986 Dodge Mini Ram Van (conversion)

19871990 Dodge Caravan

19871988Dodge Mini Ram Van

19891990 Dodge Caravan C/V

Transmissions

Both a three-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission and a five-speed manual were

available with all inline-4 engines, including the turbocharged 2.5 L (this was a rare

combination). The Plymouth Voyager which was a rebadged version of the Caravan was

also available with a manual transmission. The Chrysler Town & Country which was a

more luxurious repackaged version of the Caravan had no manual transmission option. V-6

engines were only offered with the venerable fully hydraulically operated TorqueFlite, until

the computer controlled Ultradrive 4-speed automatic became available in 1989. The

Ultradrive offered much better fuel economy and responsiveness, particularly when paired

with the inline-4 engine. However, it suffered from reliability problems, usually stemming

from what is known as "gear hunt" or "shift busyness", resulting in premature wear of the

internal clutches. It also requires an uncommon type of automatic transmission fluid and is

not clearly labeled as such, leading many owners to use the more common Dexron II rather

than the specified "Mopar ATF+3", resulting in transmission damage and eventual failure.

Subsequent years would see many design changes to the Ultradrive to improve reliability,

and many early model transmissions would eventually be retrofitted or replaced with the

updated versions by dealers, under warranty. These efforts were mostly successful, and

most 1st generation Caravans eventually got an updated transmission. A late first

generation Grand Voyager is featured on Malcolm In The Middle as the family car, and

remained through the series until the very end, therefore making it an example of a van of

this generation with the Ultradrive replaced.

Engines

For the first 3 years of production, only 2 engines were offered in the Caravan, both were

inline-4 engines with 2 barrel carburetors. The base 2.2L was borrowed from the Chrysler

K-cars, and produced 96 hp (72 kW) horsepower. The higher performance fuel-injected

version of the 2.2L engine later offered in the Chrysler K-cars was never offered in the

Caravan, and the 2-bbl version would remain the base powerplant until mid-1987.

Alongside the 2.2L, an optional Mitsubishi 2.6L engine was available producing 104 hp

(78 kW) horsepower, which did a better job motivating the van.

At launch, the Caravan's low horsepower to weight ratio had not been much of a concern.

Its main competitors were the Toyota Van and the Volkswagen Vanagon, both of which

had similarly sluggish performance. However, by 1986, new competition from Ford's

Aerostar and Chevrolet's Astro had highlighted how underpowered the Caravan was.

Therefore in mid-1987, the base 2.2L I4 was replaced with a fuel-injected 2.5L I4, which

produced a respectable 100 hp (75 kW), while the Mitsubishi G54B I4 was replaced with

the new fuel-injected 3.0L Mitsubishi V-6 producing 136 hp (101 kW), which was a

popular upgrade. This gave the base Caravan noteworthy performance among its (mostly

heavier, rear-wheel drive) peers.

Fender badge originally used on V6 equipped Caravans

Shortly thereafter in 1989, an even more powerful engine became an option, with a

turbocharged version of the base 2.5L producing 150 hp (112 kW). This engine would not

prove popular in the face of new V-6 engine options, though. Revisions to the Mitsubishi

V-6 upped its output to 142 hp (106 kW) that same year, and in 1990 a new 150 hp

(110 kW) 3.3 L V-6 was added to the option list. The V6 engines became popular as sales

of the 2.5 turbo dwindled and it was dropped at the end of the year. In these years, a

sportier and more luxurious ES model debuted (short wheelbase only) to highlight the new

engines, the turbo 2.5 in particular. The ES continued throughout 2003, before it was finally

discontinued and replaced with the SXT.

19841987 2.2 L K I4, 96 hp (72 kW), 119 lbft (161 Nm) 19841987 2.6 L Mitsubishi G54B I4, 104 hp (78 kW), 142 lbft (193 Nm) 19871990 2.5 L K I4, 100 hp (75 kW), 135 lbft (183 Nm) 19871988 3.0 L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6, 136 hp (101 kW), 168 lbft (228 Nm) 19891990 2.5 L Turbo I4, 150 hp (110 kW), 180 lbft (240 Nm) 19891990 3.0 L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6, 142 hp (106 kW), 173 lbft (235 Nm) 1990 3.3 L EGA V6, 150 hp (110 kW), 180 lbft (240 Nm)

Generation II (19901995)

Generation II

Overview



Production August 14, 1990 December 1995[6]

Body and chassis



drive / all-wheel drive

Platform Chrysler AS platform

Related


Plymouth Voyager

Chrysler Voyager (Europe only)

Powertrain

Engine

2.5 L K I4

3.0 L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6

3.3 L EGA V6

3.8 L EGH V6

Transmission

4-speed manual

5-speed manual

3-speed A670

3-spped A413 automatic


Dimensions

Wheelbase

19911993 C/V: 112 in (2,845 mm) SWB & 19941995 C/V: 112.3 in (2,852 mm)

19911993 C/V Extended: 119.1 in (3,025 mm)

C/V AWD: 112 in (2,845 mm)

Grand Caravan & 19941995 C/V Extended: 119.3 in (3,030 mm)

Length

19911993 C/V: 175.9 in (4,468 mm) 19911993 SWB & 199495 C/V: 178.1 in (4,524 mm)

19911993 C/V Extended: 190.6 in (4,841 mm)


Width

72 in (1,828.8 mm)

1991 C/V: 72.2 in (1,834 mm)

19921993 C/V: 69.6 in (1,768 mm)

Height

SWB & 199193 C/V: 64.2 in (1,631 mm)


199193 AWD: 65.9 in (1,674 mm) Grand Caravan: 66 in (1,676.4 mm)


199495 SE: 64.3 in (1,633 mm)

Curb weight 3,305 lb (1,499 kg)

3,531 lb (1,602 kg) (Grand Caravan)

1994-1995 Dodge Grand Caravan ES AWD

From 1990 through 1994, the Caravan used the Chrysler AS platform; they were the last

minivans derived from the Chrysler K platform. The increasing popularity of the short

wheelbase Caravan had a dramatic effect on the captive import from Mitsubishi, called the

Dodge Colt Vista, and was no longer imported to North America starting in 1991.

This generation of vans brought additional innovations, such as:

"Quad Command" bucket seating (1990)

Integrated child safety seats (1991), improved design with recliners (1993)

Available anti-lock brakes (1990)

First driver's side airbag in a minivan (1991) and first dual front airbags (1993)

First minivan to meet 1998 U.S. federal safety standards (1993)

All-wheel drive was introduced for the minivan. (1990)

Changes for this generation included revised trim for 1992, including roof-racks and

doorhandles, among other components (prior to this, said components were largely like

those found on the previous generation). 1993 marked the final year for optional woodgrain

and wire wheels on higher level models. 1994 saw a redesigned interior, with slightly

different seat contours/fabrics, along with a new dash, in order to accommodate a

passenger-side air bag. 1994 also saw exterior trim changes, such as a body colored grill

and moldings on certain models, as well as the addition of a one year only "10th

Anniversary Edition" model. Available as an option on a mid-level Caravan and Grand

Caravan (also offered on Voyager models as well), the popular "10th Anniversary" package

featured 2-tone paint schemes, which included a contrasting light gray colored lower break,

along with a gold fender badge. Only select colors were available on this model.

Engines

19911995 2.5 L K I4, 100 hp (75 kW), 135 lbft (183 Nm) 19911995 3.0 L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6, 142 hp (106 kW), 173 lbft (235 Nm) 19911993 3.3 L EGA V6, 150 hp (110 kW), 180 lbft (240 Nm) 19941995 3.3 L EGA V6, 162 hp (121 kW), 194 lbft (263 Nm) 19941995 3.8 L EGH V6, 162 hp (121 kW), 213 lbft (289 Nm)

Generation III (19962000)

Generation III

Overview

Also called

Dodge Grand Caravan (LWB Model)


Sanxing Voyager (China Captive

Import)

Production January 30, 19952000

Designer Don Renkert (1991)

Body and chassis

Body style 3-door and 4-door minivan



Platform Chrysler NS platform

Related Chrysler Town & Country

Plymouth Voyager

Chrysler Voyager

Powertrain

Engine

2.4 L EDZ I4 (gasoline)

2.5 L VM425 I4 (diesel)

(Philippines)

3.0 L 6G72 V6 (gasoline)

3.3 L EGA V6 (gasoline / E85)

3.8 L EGH V6 (gasoline)

Transmission

5-speed manual (Philippines diesel)

3-speed 31TH automatic


4-speed 41TE automatic

Dimensions

Wheelbase SWB: 113.3 in (2,878 mm)


Length

SWB: 186.3 in (4,732 mm)

Grand Caravan FWD: 199.6 in

(5,070 mm)

Grand Caravan AWD: 199.7 in

(5,072 mm)

Width 76.8 in (1,951 mm)

Height 68.5 in (1,740 mm)

FWD: 68.7 in (1,745 mm)


3,680 lb (1,669 kg) (Grand Caravan)

Short-wheelbase Dodge Caravan

With Generation III, the Chrysler minivans were available in long- and short wheelbase models; three- and four-door configurations; and eight different powertrains, including

electric and compressed natural gas; on a single, flexible platform.

In development for nearly 5 years from early 1990 (full development from 1991) to

December 26, 1994 (final design by Don Renkert was approved on September 23, 1991 and

frozen in May 1992),[7]

the 1996 model was introduced on January 4, 1995 at the 1995

North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) using the Chrysler NS platform.[8]

It

included a number of innovations, including a driver's side sliding door (optional initially,

to become standard equipment later), a first for Chrysler and a non-compact minivan for the

United States & Canada (the Honda Odyssey had introduced the first four-door non-

compact minivan for the United States & Canada in 1994, although the first-generation

Odyssey had conventional hinged rear doors). With Generation III, Chrysler introduced a

seat management system marketed as Easy Out Roller Seats. A conventional door handle

and lock was added to the rear hatch, eliminating the confusing pop-and-lift maneuver

which had been required on earlier models.

Base models of the Caravan were offered in most states with either a 2.4 L four-cylinder or

the 3.0 L Mitsubishi V6, except in several northeastern states, where the Mitsubishi V6

didn't meet emissions standards. In those locales, the 3.3 L engine was offered as the V6

option from 1997 through 2000. The manual transmission, never popular, was dropped;

only some early 1996 models and European Chrysler Voyager were the only ones equipped

with manuals. The 2.4 L four-cylinder engine produced more power than the Mitsubishi 3.0

had in the first two generations.

The 1996 Caravan, along with the Plymouth Voyager and the Chrysler Town & Country

won the North American Car of the Year award. The Caravan itself won Motor Trend

magazine's Car of the Year 1996 and appeared on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list

for 1996 and 1997. 1999 also saw the addition of a one year only 15th anniversary

"Platinum Edition", to mark Caravan's 15th year of production. This package was offered

on various trim levels, and included Platinum Metallic paint, and fender badges. The 2000

model year offered packages which included the "2000+" and "Millennium" package,

however these were little more than unique fender badges on vans with popular

equipment.[citation needed]

In 1998, the 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan got new front styling on all trims above SE, and

Sport and ES models received even sportier styling. The ES model was the first minivan to

receive the "AutoStick" transmission and 17 inch wheels. A cargo net between the driver

and front passenger seats was added. Some other changes during this generation included

new colors, and interior fabric.[citation needed]

Color keyed door and lift-gate handles were

standard across the whole range, in addition to a new keyless entry remote. Base and SE

models had options for a spoiler as well as color keyed bumpers and trim (grey or color

molded bumpers and trim were standard). The driver's side sliding door became standard.

Chrysler had updates of the Plymouth Voyager in 1996 for the 1997 model year and the

Chrysler Town & Country in 1997 for the 1998 model year, prior to the 19982007 DaimlerChrysler era; it was the only exterior update of the NS Dodge Caravan.

Engines

19962000 2.4 L EDZ I4, 150 hp (110 kW), 167 lbft (226 Nm) (Canadian vans beginning in 1999 included a 3.0 L V6 as standard equipment)

19962000 3.0 L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6 150 hp (110 kW), 176 lbft (239 Nm) (not available in certain U.S. states, 3.3 L V6 offered as standard equipment in those

states instead)

19962000 3.3 L EGA V6, 158 hp (118 kW), 203 lbft (275 Nm) 19961997 3.8 L EGH V6, 166 hp (124 kW), 227 lbft (308 Nm) 19982000 3.8 L EGH V6, 180 hp (130 kW), 240 lbft (330 Nm)

Concepts

Other plans for this model year included three minivan concepts all to be made in the

Windsor Assembly, the Dodge Caravan R/T, Voyager XG, and the Chrysler Pacifica. The

Caravan R/T (originally ESS) was to include the most powerful engine ever for a minivan,

rated at 325 horsepower (242 kW). It had two Dodge Viper hoodscoops, a brushed

aluminum instrument panel, racing-style pedals, and black and white rubber flooring.[citation

needed] The Voyager XG was more rugged, and included many outdoor amenities, such as a

built-in ice pack.[citation needed]

The Chrysler Pacifica, based on the Town & Country, was

more luxurious, had power leather seats and footrests, overhead bins and lighting, an LHS

grille, and roof-long skylights. The skylight feature was used by Nissan in the Quest. The

Pacifica actually did come to be in 2004, based on the fifth generation Caravan, except that

it became a crossover SUV rather than a minivan.

Dodge Caravan EPIC

Main article: Dodge EPIC

In 1999, Dodge introduced the Caravan EPIC, a fully electric minivan. The EPIC was

powered by 28 12-volt NiMH batteries and was capable of traveling up to 80 miles

(130 km) on a single charge. The EPIC was sold as a fleet-only lease vehicle. Production of

the EPIC was discontinued in 2001. Only a few hundred of these vehicles were produced

and sold. After the leases expired they were returned and crushed. Approximately 10 vans

remain in private hands today.

Crash test results

The 19962000 Dodge Grand Caravan received a "Marginal" rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's 40 mph offset test. The structural performance and restraints

were graded "Acceptable", but the foot injuries were very high.

In the NHTSA crash tests, it received 4 stars for the driver and front passenger in the

frontal-impact. In the side-impact test, it received 5 stars for the driver, and 3 stars for the

rear occupant, and resulted in a fuel leak that could cause a fire hazard.

Generation IV (20012007)

Generation IV

Overview



Production July 24, 2000 July 2007 (America), 2009present (in China)

Model years 20012007

Designer Brandon Faurote (1997)

Body and chassis




Platform Chrysler RS platform

Related


Chrysler Pacifica

Chrysler Voyager

Powertrain

Engine

2.4 L EDZ I4

2.8 L CRD diesel (Philippines)

3.0L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6 (China)

3.3 L EGA V6

3.8 L EGH V6

Transmission 3-speed 31TH automatic with 2.4EDZ

4-speed 41TE automatic

Dimensions

Wheelbase SWB: 113.3 in (2,878 mm)


Length

20012004 SWB: 189.1 in (4,803 mm)

20052007 SWB: 189.3 in (4,808 mm)

Grand Caravan: 200.5 in

(5,093 mm)/200.6 in (5,095 mm)

Width 78.6 in (1,996 mm)


Unveiled at the 2000 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) on Monday,

January 10, 2000,[9]

the redesigned 2001 Dodge Caravan and 2001 Chrysler

Town&Country were released for sale in August 2000. The release was part of a

promotional tie-in with Nabisco, which unveiled their new "Mini Oreos" inside the van

during the unveiling.[10]

The first vans rolled off the line at the Windsor Assembly Plant on

July 24. The Caravan comes in trim levels: SE, Sport, SXT, AWD Sports, "base" model,

AWD Choice, eL, C/V, ES, EX, AWD Wagon, and SXT All-Wheel-Drive.[11]

In development from February 1996 to December 1999, the Generation IV minivans were

based on the Chrysler RS platform and featured a larger body frame with modified

headlights and taillights. In addition to other detailed changes, power sliding doors and a

power hatch became available as options. The Mitsubishi 3.0 L V6, which no longer met

emissions standards in California and the northeastern U.S., was discontinued, and a more

powerful 3.8L engine, based on the 3.3L, became available. All Wheel Drive continued to

be offered on high end models. Other innovative available features included remote

operated sliding doors and rear hatch, which could be opened and closed as the push of a

button, either inside the vehicle, or with the keyless entry fob. Design work was done by

Brandon Faurote from January 1997 and reached production approval in 1998.

In the 2002 model year, DaimlerChrysler stopped using the "DODGE" badges on the front

doors, like with all Dodge vehicles.

In 2003, the Caravan C/V and Grand Caravan C/V returned after having been discontinued

in 1995. The C/V featured the option of deleted side windows (replaced by composite

panels), optional rear seats, a cargo floor made of plastic material similar to pickup truck

bedliners, rubber flooring in lieu of carpeting and normal hatch at the rear. Minor changes

were made to the Grand Caravan ES including many of the features included in Option

Group 29S becoming standard, the 17 inch Titan Chrome wheels no longer being an option

replaced with standard 16 inch chrome wheels, and the disappearance of the AutoStick

Transmission option. This year also saw the appearance of an optional factory-installed rear

seat DVD system with single disc player mounted below the HVAC controls.

2004 offered an exclusive one year only "Anniversary Edition" package to mark Caravan's

20th year in production. This package was offered on higher level SXT models, and

included chrome wheels, body color moldings, special interior accents and a unique fender

badge.

2005 changes to the Caravan included a revised grille, new foglight fascia, and a system of

in-floor folding second and third row seats, marketed as Stow 'n Go seating.

2009 Production of the IV generation continues in China.[12]

Engines

20012007 2.4 L EDZ I4, 150 hp (110 kW) at 5400 rpm and 165 lbft (224 Nm) at 4000 rpm

20012007 3.3 L EGA V6, 180 hp (130 kW) at 5000 rpm and 210 lbft (280 Nm) at 4000 rpm

20012007 3.8 L EGH V6, 215 hp (160 kW) at 5000 rpm and 245 lbft (332 Nm) at 4000 rpm

2009present 3.0 L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6, 150 hp (110 kW) 176 lbft (239 Nm) (China)

In Canada, the 3.3 L V6 was standard on all models.

IIHS results

The 2001 model of this version earned a "Poor" rating in the Insurance Institute for

Highway Safety 's 40 mph offset test. It did protect its occupants reasonably well, and the

dummy movement was well controlled, however, a fuel leak occurred. Chrysler corrected

this problem starting with the 2002 models, moving it up to an "Acceptable" rating.

The 2006 model year brought optional side curtain airbags and a stronger B-pillar, which

was tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's side impact crash test. With the

side airbags, it got an "Acceptable" rating. For the driver, there is a chance of serious neck

injuries, rib fractures and/or internal organ injuries. The rear passengers, however, could

leave this accident unharmed, as there is a low risk of significant injury in a crash of this

severity for them.

Generation V (2008present)

Generation V (Dodge Grand

Caravan)

Overview

Also called Ram C/V Tradesman

Production August 16, 2007present

Body and chassis



drive

Platform Chrysler RT platform

Related


Chrysler Grand Voyager

Volkswagen Routan

Ram Cargo Van

Powertrain

Engine

2.8 L 176 hp (131 kW) CRD I4 diesel

(Philippines)

3.3 L 175 hp (130 kW) V6

3.8 L 197 hp (147 kW) V6

4.0 L 251 hp (187 kW) V6

3.6 L 283 hp (211 kW) V6

Transmission

4-speed automatic(3.3 engine)

62TE 6-speed automatic (3.6, 3.8, 4.0

engines)

Dimensions

Wheelbase 121.2 in (3,078 mm)

Length 202.5 in (5,144 mm)

Ram Cargo Van: 202.8 in (5,151 mm)

Width 76.9 in (1,953 mm)





Initial release

Beginning with Generation V in model year 2008, Chrysler only made the long wheelbase

Grand Caravan. This van debuted at the 2007 North American International Auto Show and

had exterior styling by Ralph Gilles.

A new six-speed automatic transmission became standard with the 3.8 L V6 and the new

4.0 L V6. The four-speed automatic transmission is standard with the 3.3 L Flex-Fuel V6.

Chrysler introduced a seat management system marketed as Swivel'n Go seating, the

MyGIG entertainment system (a stereo with built in hard drive for recording, storing, and

playing music), second and third row video screens, powered second row windows,

standard side curtain airbags, and dashboard-mounted transmission controls. The gear shift

lever moved to the instrument panel, the location used by competitors.

With discontinuation of the short-wheelbase Caravan, Dodge offered the Journey on nearly

an identical wheelbase and as a crossover rather than a minivan. Although the SWB model,

which had accounted for half of all sales in Canada,[13]

cost approximately $2,000 less and

offered a four-cylinder engine option with improved fuel economy, Chrysler executives

stated the SWB Caravan was discontinued to accommodate new features offered in the

Grand Caravan, consistent with the demands of the majority of the minivan market.[14]

The market shifted briefly away from minivans and SUVs with the gasoline price spikes of

the earlier part of 2008. This trend began to reverse itself towards the fall of 2008.[14]

In

2009 and 2010 the Dodge Grand Caravan continued to be the top selling minivan in

Canada, with over 60% of the market's monthly sales. Fiat has stated that the Dodge Grand

Caravan, assembled in Windsor, Ont., will remain in the companys product line until at least 2014.

[15]

A noticeable cosmetic update in the 2009 model year saw the "DODGE" badge moved to

the left side of trunklid (in the spot where "GRAND CARAVAN" was previously), while

"GRAND CARAVAN" had been moved to the right. The previously unavailable Electronic

Stability Control was made standard on this generation.[16]

Engines

Mod

el

Displacem

ent Type

Valv

es

Pow

er (HP)

Torq

ue (lb-ft)

hp

@

rp

m

Torq

ue

@

rpm

Compress

ion

Ratio

Transmiss

ion

Fuel

econo

my (MPG)

Yea

rs

3.3 L

V6

3,301 cc

(201.4 cu i

n)

OHV 12 175 205 5,00

0 4,000 9.3:1

4-speed

41TE

automatic

17/24

200

8201

0

3.6

L[17]

V6

3,600 cc

(220 cu in)

DOH

C 24 283 260

6,40

0 4,400 10.0:1

6-speed

62TE

automatic

17/25 201

1

3.8 L

V6

3,778 cc

(230.5 cu i

n)

OHV 12 197 230 5,20

0 4,000 9.6:1 16/23

200

8201

0

4.0 L

V6

3,952 cc

(241.2 cu i

n)

SOH

C 24 251 259

6,00

0 4,100 10.2:1 17/25

200

8201

0

Both the 3.8 L and 4.0 L engines were paired with Chrysler's 62TE 6-speed automatic

transmission with variable line pressure (VLP) technology (See Ultradrive#62TE).

In Canada (20082010) the 3.3 L was the standard engine across the range, combined with the 4-speed 41TE automatic transmission. The 4.0 L engine and six-speed combination was

available as an option on only the top of the range SXT models. In 2011 the six-speed

transmission was specified as standard on the Town & Country.

Safety

In the U.S. the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car

Assessment Program crash testing, the 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan achieved a five star (top

safety) rating in several categories.[18]

Frontal Impact Driver and Passenger:

Side Impact Driver:

Side Impact Rear Passenger:

Rollover 2WD:

2011 model year update

Post-facelift 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan

The Grand Caravan was facelifted starting the 2011 model year, which included major

changes in both styling and functionality. The suspension was heavily re-tuned, with both

Dodge and Chrysler minivans gaining a larger front sway bar and new rear sway bar,

increased rear roll center height, adjusted spring rates, a new steering gear, a revised front

static camber setting, and lowered ride height. This dramatically improves handling in the

both the Chrysler and Dodge.

All three of the former engine choices were replaced by the new Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 with

six-speed automatic transmission, now the sole powertrain choice for all models. Interior

trim was restyled on both vans, in addition to major exterior revisions highlighted by the

new "double-crosshair" grille on the Grand Caravan and a new chrome grille for the Town

& Country.

Other changes included extra sound insulation, acoustic glass, new seats, softer-touch

surfaces, new LED ambient lighting and center console, and halogen projector headlamps

with LED accents. The Chrysler models were adjusted so that instead of competing against

equivalent Dodge trim levels, they were above Dodge in trim and features.[19]

For 2012, a new, basic style trim called "AVP" is introduced, while some features

previously unavailable for "SE" (like touch navigation panel) become available as options

(The "SE" now also receives a floor console, similar to the one available for "SXT").

Finally, just like on all other 2012 Dodge models, the front logo design now bears the two

slanted rectangles in red.

For 2013, the "AVP" trim starting MSRP reduced by $1,000 from last year.

2014 model year update

2014 Dodge Grand Caravan 30th Anniversary Edition on display at the Montreal Auto

Show, 22 January 2014

For the 2014 model year, three new packages are introduced: American Value Package

(US; Canada Value Package in Canada), Blacktop package (US only) and the 30th

Anniversary Edition. They are all different sets of the SE and SXT trims, and include new

luxury features for basically the same price.

New for the 2014 Grand Caravan AVP are easy-clean floor mats that now come with the

optional second-row Stow'n Go seats (standard on SE, SXT and R/T).

Blacktop package are based on SE and SXT, with 17-inch polished aluminum wheels with

gloss black pockets, a gloss black grille, black headlamp bezels, an all-black interior

including headliner, door panels and console, unique black cloth seats and door trim panels

with silver accent stitching, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with silver accent stitching

and a leather shift knob, choice of 6 body colours (Granite Crystal, Billet Silver, Brilliant

Black, Maximum Steel, Redline Red, Bright White). SXT models also include fog lamps.

SE 30th Anniversary Edition is based on SE, with unique 17-inch satin carbon aluminum

wheels, body-color heated exterior mirrors, 30th Anniversary badging on the front fenders,

optional Crystal Granite Pearl Coat body colour, silver accent stitching and piano black

accents throughout, black cloth seats, a black leather-wrapped steering wheel, black leather-

wrapped shift knob, black headliner and overhead console, bright heating and air

conditioning trim bezels, power second- and third-row windows, a 30th Anniversary logo

in the gauge cluster and 30th Anniversary logo on the key fob and the Uconnect Handsfree

Group (SiriusXM Satellite Radio with a one-year subscription, Bluetooth streaming audio

and voice command and an auto-dimming rear view mirror).

SXT 30th Anniversary Edition is based on SXT, with unique 17-inch polished aluminum

wheels with satin carbon pockets, bright chrome roof rack, bright window trim moldings,

fog lamps, automatic headlamps and special 30th Anniversary badging, a customized gauge

cluster with 30th Anniversary badging, Black Torino leatherette seats with premium suede

inserts and silver accent stitching, power 10-way drivers seat, piano black accent trim bezels, bright chrome accents, Uconnect Handsfree Group (SiriusXM Satellite Radio with a

one-year subscription, Bluetooth streaming audio and voice command and an auto-

dimming rear view mirror).

Both 30th Anniversary Edition include unique Granite Crystal Pearl Coat body colour and

are also available in Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat,

Maximum Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Pearl

Coat, Redline Red 2-Coat Pearl, Sandstone Pearl Coat or True Blue Pearl Coat.

New for the 2014 Grand Caravan R/T are standard auto headlamps with black bezels and

the Security Group featuring remote start and security alarm.

The vehicles arrived at dealerships at Q3 2013.[20][21][22]

The 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan is built in Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario,

Canada.

Future

Chrysler has confirmed so far the production of 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan, which will

start in late October 2014. A sixth generation is currently in conception stage and is planned

for the 2016 model line-up release.

Sales

Calendar Year United States Canada Total

2008[23]

123,749 39,396[24]

163,145

2009[25]

90,666 40,283[26]

130,949

2010[27]

103,323 55,306[26]

158,629

2011[28]

110,862 53,406 164,268

2012[29]

141,468 51,552 [30]

193,020

2013[31]

124,019

Automotive news reported that, from January to October in 2010, Dodge sold about a third

of its 2010 Grand Caravans to rental fleets. The number of returned ex-rental 2010 Grand

Caravan to the market jumped four folds between July to October, depressing prices of

used 2009 and 2010 Dodge minivan by as much as 20%.[32]

Europe

Originally from 2007 to June 1, 2011, the car was known in Europe as the Chrysler G.

Voyager, but since June 1, 2011, it has been known in the UK and Ireland as a Chrysler G.

Voyager and in the rest of Europe as a Lancia Voyager. For the European market, the

Lancia/Chrysler Voyager will be available in three trim levels (Silver, Gold and Platinum)

and two choices of engine: a 283 PS (208 kW; 279 hp) 3.6-liter V6 petrol unit and a 2.8-

liter CRD diesel with particulate filter as standard delivering 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) and

360 Nm (270 lbft).[33]

For more information on the European specification Voyager, see Chrysler Voyager.

Ram Cargo Van (Ram C/V Tradesman)

2012 Ram Cargo Van

The Ram Cargo Tradesman, or Ram C/V Tradesman, debuted for the 2012 model year,

replacing the Dodge Grand Caravan C/V. It is based on the Dodge Grand Caravan, but with

solid metal instead of rear windows and a flat load space with 144.4 cubic feet (4,090 L) of

interior storage, and a 1,800 lb (820 kg). cargo payload plus a towing capability of up to

3,600 lb (1,600 kg). The Ram C/V is offered with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and 6-

speed automatic transmission.[34]

Volkswagen Routan

Beginning with Generation V, Volkswagen began marketing the Routan, a rebadged variant

of the Chrysler RT platform minivan with revised styling and content, for the North

American market.

The Routan, made at Windsor Assembly alongside the Grand Caravan, debuted in 2008 at

the Chicago Auto Show. Sales began in autumn of 2008, and features neither Chrysler's

Stow'n Go nor Swivel'n Go seating systems. Total sales as of September 2010 were

reported as being under 10,000 units, far lower than the target of 5% of the minivan

market.[19]

As a result, in 2012, the Routan was discontinued in Mexico and the US. In

Canada, however, the last 2012 models were sold as both 2013 and, later, refurbished 2014

models.[citation needed]

The last Routan shipment occurred in Quebec as recently as in April

2014.[citation needed]

Trims

Current

VP - 2012present (U.S. AVP) 2008-present (Canada CVP) SE 19842010, 2012present SE 30th Anniversary Edition - 2013present SXT - 2003-2010, 2012present SXT 30th Anniversary Edition - 2013present Crew 20082013 (Canadian version 2011present) R/T 2011present Blacktop - 2013present

Former

Base 19842007 C/V 19892010 eL 20012003 ES 1986 (concept), 19882003 EX 20022004 LE 19842000 Sport 19942003 (1996-2000 as a package on SE and LE models) Mainstreet - 2011

SE 20th Anniversary Edition - 2004 (Canada)

SE 25th Anniversary Edition - 2008 (Canada)

SXT 20th Anniversary Edition - 2004 (U.S.)

SXT 25th Anniversary edition - 2008 (U.S.)

Seating features

The Dodge Caravan has incorporated various seating systems for their minivans to enhance

interior flexibility.

Integrated child safety seats

In 1991, Dodge introduced a second row bench seat integrating two child booster seats on

1992 models. These seats continued as an available option through Generation V until they

were discontinued in 2010.

Easy-Out Roller Seats

In 1995, Dodge introduced a system of seats to simplify installation, removal, and re-

positioning, marketed as Easy-Out Roller Seats. When installed, the seats are latched to

floor-mounted strikers. When unlatched, eight rollers lift each seat, allowing it to be rolled

fore and aft. Tracks have locator depressions for rollers, thus enabling simple installation.

Ergonomic levers at the seat backs release the floor latches single-handedly without tools

and raise the seats onto the rollers in a single motion. Additionally, seat backs were

designed to fold forward. Seat roller tracks are permanently attached to the floor and seat

stanchions are aligned, facilitating the longitudinal rolling of the seats. Bench seat

stanchions were moved inboard to reduce bending stress in the seat frames, allowing them

to be lighter.

When configured as two and three person benches (available through Generation IV), the

Easy Out Roller Seats could be unwieldy. Beginning in 2000, second and third row seats

became available in a 'quad' configuration bucket or captain chairs in the second row and a third row three-person 50/50 split "bench" with each section weighing under 50 lb (23 kg). The Easy-out system remained in use through Generation V where certain models featured a two-person bench and the under-floor compartments from the Stow'n Go

system.

The Volkswagen Routan, a rebadged nameplate variant of the Chrysler minivans, uses the

Easy Out Roller Seats on its second row seating.

Stow N Go seating

In 2004, Dodge introduced a system of second- and third-row seating that folded

completely into under-floor compartments. It was marketed as Stow N Go and was available exclusively on long-wheelbase models.

In a development program costing $400 million,[35]

engineers initially used an Erector Set

to visualize the complex interaction of the design[36]

and redesigned under-floor

components. The system included the spare tire well, fuel tank, exhaust system, parking

brake cables, rear climate control lines, and rear suspension[36]

but precluded all-wheel

drive (AWD).

The system, in turn, creates a combined volume of 12 cubic feet (340 L) of under-floor

storage when second-row seats are deployed. With both rows folded, the vans have a flat-

load floor and a maximum cargo volume of 160.7 cubic feet (4,550 L).[35][37]

The Stow 'n Go system received the Popular Science Magazine's "Best of What's New" for

2005 award,[38]

and was never offered on the Volkswagen Routan, the rebadged nameplate

variant of the Chrysler minivans.

For model year 2011 Chrysler revised the system, rebranding it as "Super Stow 'n Go".

New pivoting head restraints with taller seatbacks and a revised folding mechanism

(marketed as "single action") improved stowage ease with the head restraints folding on themselves automatically and the entire seat automatically folding down to a position just

over its floor recess.

Swivel 'n Go seating

Dodge introduced a seating system in 2007, marketed as Swivel'n Go. In the seating system,

two full size second row seats swivel to face the third row. A detachable table can be placed

between the second and third row seats. The Swivel'n Go seating system includes the 3rd

row seating from the Stow'n Go system. The system is offered on the Dodge Grand

Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country, but not the Volkswagen Routan, a rebadged

nameplate variant of the Chrysler minivans.

These Swivel 'n Go Seats are manufacted by Intier Corp. a division of Magna. The tracks,

risers and swivel mechanisms are assembled by Camslide, a division of Intier. The swivel

mechanism was designed by and is produced by Toyo Seat USA Corp.

The system is noted for its high strength.[citation needed]

The entire load of the seat in the event

of a crash is transferred through the swivel mechanism, which is almost twice as strong as

the minimum government requirement.[citation needed]

The swivel mechanism includes bumpers that stabilize the seat while in the lock position.

When rotated the seat comes off these bumpers to allow easy rotation.

The seat is not meant to be left in an unlocked position or swiveled with the occupant in it,

although this will not damage the swivel mechanism.

"Swivel 'n Go" was dropped after the 2010 model year and is no longer an option on 2011

and later Chrysler and Dodge vans. However, the seats can still be installed by modifying

the van with a few basic tools and parts[citation needed]

. However, it is impossible to install the

table.

Production

The long-wheelbase Dodge Grand Caravan with Stow 'n Go seats are built in Windsor,

Ontario, Canada at Windsor Assembly (WAP Plant 3) by members of Canadian Auto

Workers Local 444. Both wheelbase models were produced in Fenton, Missouri at Saint

Louis Assembly by members of the United Auto Workers Local 110 until the end of

October 2010.

Documents

Dodge Caravan