Overview & Reviews

The Dodge Grand Caravan traces its roots back to 1984, when Chrysler introduced American families to a new, extremely space-efficient vehicle: the minivan. The larger, "Grand" version of the Caravan debuted a few years later. It was a huge hit that has remained a strong seller through the years, even as newer rivals outdid it in various ways. Despite innovations like driver-side sliding doors and Stow 'n Go seats, a poor reputation for reliability, a lack of refinement and disappointing execution made it difficult to recommend.

In recent years, however, the Dodge Grand Caravan has been improved significantly. With a strong engine and improved cabin quality highlighting this renaissance, the Grand Caravan is the most competitive that it's been in years. While Toyota and Honda still offer more well-rounded minivans, this Dodge provides several attributes that could make it a good pick for consumers.

Current Dodge Grand Caravan
The Dodge Caravan minivan can seat up to seven passengers and is offered in four trim levels: American Value Package (AVP), SE, SXT and R/T. All of them are powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces a very strong 283 horsepower. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite the horsepower advantage, the Dodge Grand Caravan is still a half-second slower to 60 mph than the top-ranked Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna.

The AVP represents the entry-level model and feature highlights include full power accessories, dual-zone climate control and an auxiliary audio jack. However, it's the only trim that features a two-person second-row bench seat -- a minivan rarity nowadays -- in place of the upper trims' excellent Stow 'n Go seats that fold into the floor with one tug of a lever.

As you move up through the trim levels, you'll find more standard features like rear air-conditioning, a power-operated liftgate, power sliding doors, leather upholstery, a rearview camera and a blind-spot warning system. Electronic features are plentiful as well, including a navigation system, Bluetooth and a rear seat entertainment system that includes rare features like a Blu-Ray player, an HDMI port and two screens. Like other loaded minivans these days, a fully equipped Grand Caravan can seem like a full-fledged luxury car in terms of features.

As far as passenger comfort, the Grand Caravan comes up a bit short relative to its rivals. Taller drivers may run out of legroom, the second-row Stow 'n Go passenger seats are a little less comfortable than the fixed captain's chairs of other vans and the third row's seat cushion is tilted down in an effort to increase rear legroom. There also isn't an option for an eighth passenger. On the plus side, though, those Stow 'n' Go seats are a cinch to transform the Grand Caravan from people carrier to cargo hauler. The second-row seats of most other vans must be physically removed or you end up with less maximum cargo capacity. In this way, at least, the Grand Caravan is hard to beat.

Used Dodge Grand Caravan Models
The current van represents the fifth-generation Dodge Grand Caravan that debuted for 2008. However, it was substantially upgraded for 2011. Originally, there were two main trim levels available (SE and SXT) and three V6 engine choices. A 3.3-liter produced 175 hp, a midrange 3.8-liter made 197 hp and a 4.0-liter unit topped out at 251 hp. None were particularly appealing. The Grand Caravan from 2008-'10 was very disappointing for other reasons as well. The cabin featured subpar materials, uninspired design and haphazard construction. Handling was worse, especially in the first model year, and the ride was generally unsophisticated. Even the styling was less appealing.

Though we don't recommend the Grand Caravan from 2008-'10, potential buyers should nevertheless note that it featured different second-row seating configurations. The second-row bench was standard on the SE for '08, but it gave way to standard Stow 'n Go the following year. There was, however, an optional Swivel 'n Go system that included more comfortable second-row captain's chairs that rotated 180 degrees to face the third row. A removable table essentially created a tiny living room on wheels.

Since it was overhauled and much improved for 2011, changes to the Grand Caravan since have been minimal and mostly limited to trim level and equipment shuffling. Still, 2013 brought easier operation of the Stow 'n Go second-row seating system, as well as the Blu-Ray and HDMI port features for the DVD entertainment system.

Prior to all of this were four older generations of the Dodge Grand Caravan. The first spans 1987-'90; the second, 1991-'95; the third, 1996-2000; and the fourth, 2001-'07.

The fourth-generation Grand Caravan's engine lineup included a 180-hp 3.3-liter V6 and a more powerful 215-hp 3.8-liter V6. The top-of-the-line trim level offered Stow 'n Go fold-flat seating, dual power-sliding doors, a separate rear heating and air-conditioning system, a power driver seat, 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and powered accessories. As you consider trim levels, keep in mind that the naming system for the van's trims changed a few times during this generation.

A variety of stand-alone options were available, including automatic climate control, leather trim, an Infinity sound system, rear DVD entertainment and a navigation system. Early fourth-gen Grand Caravans were available with all-wheel drive, but AWD capability was discontinued in 2005 to make room for the versatile, under-floor Stow 'n Go fold-flat seating system in premium models.

In reviews, we noted that alongside top import-brand competitors, the fourth-gen Dodge Grand Caravan came up lacking. Its engines weren't as powerful or refined, its ride wasn't as smooth or quiet and its handling wasn't as tidy or sure-footed. Inside, the van's controls and displays were dated, and features like stability control, built-in sunshades or a back-up camera simply weren't available. Still, for used-car shoppers who demand maximum flexibility from their minivans, Stow 'n Go might be reason enough to consider a Grand Caravan from this era.

The third-generation Grand Caravan featured a then-rare driver-side sliding door and unique "Easy Out" rollers on the center and rear seats to aid removal. Dodge offered several Grand Caravan trim levels to suit different budgets and desires, and dual front airbags and antilock brakes were standard. For power, the van had a 3.0-liter 150-hp V6 as standard, with a 180-hp 3.8-liter V6 engine available -- the larger V6 now coupled with a more efficient and recommended four-speed automatic transmission. After a one-year hiatus, all-wheel-drive availability returned to the lineup in 1997 on certain models, and in 1999, top-level Grand Caravans received a more driver-oriented Autostick transmission, 17-inch wheels and steering-wheel-mounted radio controls.

Introduced in 1987 as a long-wheelbase complement to the original Caravan, the Dodge Grand Caravan received its first major overhaul in 1991. The second generation (which ran through 1995) included a restyled exterior, freshened interior and the addition of optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability. Its dimensions were unchanged, but the corners were rounded off on its breadbox-like silhouette and more glass was added. Safety was enhanced with the availability of antilock brakes and a driver-side airbag in 1991 and integrated child safety seats in 1992. The Grand Caravan's four earliest generations have all exhibited reliability problems, but the first and second generations were especially troublesome, due to issues related to the automatic transmission. For this reason, we'd advise used-car buyers to steer clear of these oldest Dodge minivans.

User Reviews:

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  Nice Van for the money - 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Greg - April 4 - 9:50 pm

  We purchased this van new with only 6 miles on it. It has done us very well. Took it on a 1500 mile road trip and the mileage was around 23, and that is fully loaded with luggage and 6 people on board. The passenger side door failed and got a new motor. The DVD system failed and dealer replaced the complete head unit. The van is great and will buy another one. Looked at the Toyota/Honda both and the Dodge came out on top, and it is American! Power is very smooth and linear. The sunroof had a small issue and needed new motor. Seems like a lot of issues in a short time, but again a well worhty Mini-Van!

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  Get some value for that money! - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Cheeky Monkey Mama - March 24 - 10:43 am

  I love my van. We do not have any of the problems that others have mentioned (whistling noise, road noise, poor visibility with dual screens, etc.) The controls are nicely laid out. Love the Uconnect, mygig, and the 6 speed transmission. I live on top of a hill, and rather than riding my brakes all the way down, I just downshift and let the engine do the work. We also love the piece of mind of the lifetime powertrain warranty (we added the lifetime wrap that covers just about everything else for $2700) For under 30k we have tons of features, people / cargo space, power, and safety, with the piece of mind that comes with only having to pay for basic maintenance. We think we got a bargain.

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  3RD GRAND CARAVAN - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By JNELSON973 - March 16 - 10:00 am

  This is our 4th caravan. The last three have been Grand Caravans. The latest SXT has a 3.8L engine and has greatly improved its performance. It appears to be much quiter. The 16 inch wheels have improved the ride and handling. And this is the only Minivan that can be equipped with a handicap scotter hoist mounted in the back, because of all other models have fold down seats. I base an excellent rating on my years of Minivan experience. The only con- While the seats are well padded my spouse with back trouble has made a comment about the lack of good lower back support.

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  Growing Family - 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By John - March 15 - 1:33 am

  Wow, what an upgrade from our SUV. This is out first minivan and Diamler vehicle. We looked at the Odessey, Sienna and Venture and felt the Dodge Grand Caravan offered more features per dollar than any of its competitors. We have a growing family and this car caters to our three children with space galore. Wed buy another one in a heart beat. Also the $3,500 cash back was nice.

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  Excellent overlooked choice - 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By dm3 - March 10 - 8:30 pm

  Just switched from a 2005 Sienna to 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. The Caravan has much more torque making it more responsive in normal driving, brakes are far better, excellent handling. Feels like a relatively nimble mid size sedan. Surprising to look behind and see how large the interior is. Lots of open space in the cabin is great for holding stuff and allowing easy movement within the cabin. Build quality appears to be excellent. Much better choice than a Sienna. Sienna is all hype. Gas mileage on the Caravan although rated 18/25 has been better than the Sienna rated 19/26.

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  Cant ask much more - 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Minnesota bound - February 11 - 8:03 am

  I bought a lease return with 22,000 miles on it. It drives and looks like a new vehicle. I had some concerns about gas mileage, but I get about 18 in town and almost 25 on the highway and thats with the 3.8L. It has plenty of power for almost every situation. The handling has been very good on both dry and wet roads. I havent driven it in the snow yet. The interior, gauges, and controls seem well thought out. The Stow-n-Go seating is miles above my old Aerostars with its 80 lb seats. This has the premium sound system and its as good as my home stereo. I researched this vehicle before buying it and it has had no problems. Im quite impressed so far.

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  Very good vehicle - 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By charhart - January 28 - 8:56 am

  Have to say this van has been VERY reliable. Has 225,000 miles and only minor problems. Replaced alternator about a year ago. Recently the cooling fans went out causing the radiator to crack. Replaced the radiator, still havent found out whats wrong with the fans. Gas mileage got bad about a year ago. Wierd story. Used to go from east georgia to north alabama on 3/4 tank of gas. It got great gas mileage. Took it to get a routine oil change one day and when I picked it up I had to put gas in it 3 times to make it to florida. Ever since then its had the worst gas mileage. Weird? Yes. Other than that Ive had no problems with it. Very roomy, comfortable, drives great.

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  A real multi purpose vehicle - 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Bdgilhooly - January 24 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I purchased our Caravan soon after our daughter was born, used, with almost 14,000 miles and have loved every bit of it. I traded in a Dakota, and it can do more than my truck did. The two back seats roll out, and the volume is tremendous. On the highway, I average 28 mpg., with the 3.3 liter. My sister has a popular SUV, and her interior space is MUCH more limited, in a vehicle that gets much poorer gas mileage!!?? Long after I don’t need a kid mover, I’ll still have a Caravan because of it’s usefulness.

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  Love our mini van - 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Downhill97 - January 13 - 10:00 am

  The van is all we could ask for and more. It is very comfortable with plenty of storage space. When the rear seats are out its off to Home Depot where I can store a 4x12 sheet of plywood flat.

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  Trading Down? - 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Sheryl - January 12 - 10:06 am

  I bought my 97 Dodge Grand Caravan in November of 03. I was driving a 01 GMC Yukon, and I needed to cut my expenses. Having four kids with friends eliminated a 5 passenger sedan and the only thing left that would fit my needs and my budget was this Grand Caravan. It was in immaculate condition but it had 109k miles on it. After signing the papers, I got in my "new" van and started it. The digital read out reminded me again of the high miles and at that moment, I closed my eyes and said "God, This is my new van with only 9k miles on it, a program vehicle, right??" One year and 30K miles later I can say kuddos to Dodge. Great ride and gas mileage.