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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  Very pleased - 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By tk1780 - May 19 - 10:36 pm

  Very surprised at the reliability of this van. We have 135,000 on it and have taken it out west 7 times and to Florida 3 times and never a problem. Tires, brakes and shocks so far. One secret is that we change the trans fluid every 30,000 miles. I think that is why the transmission has lasted so long. The engine is smooth. 19 mpg in town 24 on hiway. It is a great value. Cant believe it has lasted so long.

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  Greatfamilyvan - 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By ja/kreager - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Repetitive problem with inside rear view mirrow coming loose. Average battery life 2 years. Rides and handles exceptionally well, even after eight years. Retains its stylish looks. Bought a 2005 for the sto & go seating option.

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  We are so glad we did it! - 1998 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By minivanfamnow - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I love this van... i cant believe i am saying that! I really do! I am glad we got an older model that was LOADED! Runs like a dream...the transmission was smoother than our Nissan. I know that a lot of people have "bad luck" with the caravan, but just take care of it and it will take care of you :)

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  Dont let the bias fool you - 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By joeinoh - April 30 - 7:31 pm

  Im amazed the media, Edmunds included, doesnt rate this vehicle higher in its class. I reviewed minivans extensively when I found out that my wife was pregnant with our third child. After reading a few website reviews I was strongly leaning to Toy/Honda. Claimed reliability issues, build quality and a "warped bumper cover" had me running scared from the Dodge/Chrysler. I tested the Toy & Honda units & was not impressed. Then I rented a T&C for a weekend road trip. I was entirely impressed. I dont know why this product line gets the bad rap it does. Stow & Go alone sold me on the Dodge. I see Dodge units with over 200k miles all the time. Drive one before you buy a Toy or Honda.

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  Not as bad as they say - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Ian - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Have had this car 6 months and I love it. The ride is brilliant and so far Im getting 21mpg with it. It had new brakes fitted when I bought it and after 6000 miles they were already 40% worn so this seems to be a worry. The van is comfortable and quiet and has swallowed loads with ease.The Stow and Go is fantastic. The 3.8 is good enough but I would have liked the 4.0. Coming from Europe the interior is not up to my usual standard but is OK. I bought this van 2 years old and it was $10,000 cheaper than an equivalent Honda Odyssey and for my money the van is a bargain.Maybe the problems have been sorted out by the previous owner, but I would wholeheartedly recommend this car.

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  Good People Carrying Van - 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By David - April 23 - 8:10 am

  Weve just traded in our 97 Caravan for a smaller car, since gas prices has gone up the roof ! But it was a blast to drive. Power was not a problem on city or highway, and quite comfortable for all three rows of seats. Wished the headlights were brighter at night, but theyve already addressed this issue on later models. I liked the removable seats instead of fold-down ones, it helps with gas mileage if youre not using the 3rd row often, and the 3rd row bench can be slided to the middle, making it a 5-seater van with plenty of cargo space.

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  Poor Quality for Price - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By jstout01 - April 21 - 4:26 am

  Have had this vehicle for a little over a year and already replace front brakes and rotors. Appears to be chronic problem with this model. Have had trim on rear bumper replaced twice and still is not correct.Does not hold value -- has lost half its value in 1 year. Will not buy another Dodge product again

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  BEST QUALITY VAN TO DATE - 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By pogo - April 19 - 8:20 pm

  I had not intended on buying a van. I was looking at these units for my daughter and was amazed at the quality of these vehicles. So I purchased the SXTL with the sport suspension, leather, and 17" wheels for myself and a T&C for my daughter. These Dodge vans keep getting better.

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  I am so Spoiled!!!! - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Stacy Allen - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I had a 2000 Plymouth Grand Voyager SE and absolutely loved it! It was getting up there in miles and had no warrenty left. I have went all over to find a deal to get the same luxuries for about the same payment. Sam Long of Gary Mathews in Clarksville TN finally helped me get the best deal that both my husband and I could live with. This van is beatiful and full of space. Imagine my surprise when I discovered the radio controls on my steering wheel. If you want patient and hardworking sales men definately go there and ask for Sam Long, tell them I sent you.

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  Best in class - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Ron7405 - April 19 - 2:00 am

  We bouth this grand caravan for me my wife and 2 labs and it has done over and above what we have asked of the van ro do.