Retooled for 2008 the Dodge Grand Caravan is Loaded with Extras
March 28, 2008
The Dodge Grand Caravan returns for 2008 basking in the glow of a complete re-design that lowered the base price, increased the number of standard features, and debuted innovative seating and entertainment configurations. Look for the Grand Caravan in an MSRP range of $22,700 for the SE value package ($26,390 for the regular SE) to the decked out SXT at $27,910. Note that since the short-wheel base Dodge has been discontinued all models are “grand” now, coming in 2.5 inches longer, with a 1.9-inch longer wheelbase. (Additionally, couple of inches have been trimmed off the width.)
Dodge Grand Caravan: Powertrain
Dodge Grand Caravan: Exterior
Dodge Grand Caravan: Interior
| Engine | Size cc/ cu in | hp at rpm. | torque lb-ft | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OHV V6 | 3300 cc/ 202 cu in | 175 at 5000 | 205 at 4000 | 4-speed automatic |
| OHV V6 | 3800 cc/ 231 cu in | 197 at 5200 | 230 at 4000 | 6-speed automatic |
| SOHC V6 | 4000 cc/ 241 cu in | 253 at 6000 | 259 at 4200 | 6-speed automatic |
Exterior
Stylistically the designers opted to bring the hood up higher and square off the vehicle’s tail section. Changes you can’t see, or won’t notice at first glance, include thicker glass, deeper carpet padding, and more seals throughout. Add to that the fact that the components of the front suspension are now isolated and you get one of the quietest rides available in a mini van. Sixteen inch wheels are standard with seventeen inch alloy rims on the list of options. While not necessarily as curvaceous as the competition, the Caravan has a look that’s solid and mildly traditional, making it a favored choice of somewhat older drivers.
Interior
That's not to say, however, that this one won’t be a favorite with families. The 2008 model has unprecedented seating and entertainment possibilities that make up for its slightly utilitarian interior and will undoubtedly appeal to drivers who need to keep their passengers occupied. In addition to the Stow’n Go second row seats that have attracted a following for their ability to fold into the floor, this Caravan can be outfitted with Swivel’n Go Seats in the second row; captain’s chairs that can be independently moved fore and aft and rotated to face the third row. (This can actually be touted as a safety feature since sitting facing the back of the vehicle is the safer position in the event of a front-end impact.) Use the included small table, and you have a living or game room on the go.
If you select a second row bench, you can have an integrated child seat (but not with the Stow ‘n Go option.) Seat heaters are also optional for the first and second rows. With the Swivel ’n Go option built-in child booster seats can be added. Look for a power third row seat that folds flat and is configured on the 60/40 split. With one-touch operation of this third row on top of the other seating options, you can make the Caravan’s interior as functional and flexible as you like given your current hauling and carrying needs.
Where to start with the entertainment choices? First, Dodge Caravan drivers can opt for a three-zone video system. That means the first, second, and third rows can all watch or listen to separate feeds. An exciting offering available only on this mini van and the Chrysler Town & Country is Sirius Backseat TV that includes three channels of programming rated as entirely kid friendly. A MyGig hard-drive based audio unit is available as are 115-volt outlets (household style), a navigation system and a backup camera. Other interior choices include leather seating, sunshades that retract, power adjust pedals, climate control over three zones, surround sound, and hands free phone operation via UConnect.
Powertrain
The base SE models are outfitted with a 3.3-liter V6 producing 175 horsepower (four speed automatic) with the added extra of being able to run on both gasoline and E85 ethanol. You’ll get about 17 city and 24 highway with that engine. In the SXT a 3.8-liter V6 (197 hp) is standard with a 4-liter V6 (251 hp) available. Fuel efficiency for those units measures 17 city and 23 highway. Standard safety features include systems for traction and stability control and antilock brakes (with brake assist.) There are head curtain airbags for all three rows. Optional safety features include a parking sensor and a camera for rear parking.
Bottom line, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan isn’t trendy or slick, it’s solid and reliable. With the lengthy list of extras and possible combinations, spend just a little time thinking about what you want and need and you’ll drive away in a mini van completely tailored to your life and driving habits. Other manufacturers may be abandoning this genre (Ford, for instance has discontinued the Freestar and the Mercury Montego), but Dodge has been a leader in the field for almost 25 years. The Grand Caravan reflects that expertise and is, without question, a top-shelf mini van—loaded with extras and ready to perform.
