New Dodge and Chrysler Minivans Debut
The next generation of the Chrysler Group minivans, from the company that created the modern minivan segment more than 20 years ago, were revealed at the North American International Auto Show 2007. With completely new exterior and interior designs, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and 2008 Chrysler Town & Country will both go on sale next fall.
In addition to the styling changes, according to Chrysler the new minivans include 35 new or improved features, including a six-speed automatic transaxle, an available "Swivel 'n Go" seating system with a removable table, an available one-touch power-folding third-row 60/40 bench seat, ambient halo interior lighting, and a dual DVD entertainment system that can play different media at the same time.
Three distinct seating and storage systems are offered: Swivel 'n Go, Stow 'n Go or a second-row bench seat with a third-row bench seat that folds into the floor. Storage systems include a removable sliding front console that can slide to the rear so second-row passengers can use it as well; a standard front console with removable cupholders that are dishwasher-safe, dual glove boxes; and thirteen cup or bottle holders.
The styling of the Dodge Grand Caravan and the Chrysler Town & Country reflects the personalities of each brand. The Grand Caravan offers a bolder, more athletic look while the Town & Country focus is more on elegance and luxury. The Dodge has a new version of the trademark crosshair grille, while the Town & Country grille gets inspiration from the Chrysler 300 sedan.
The roof has been widened by six inches to give both vans additional interior room. The sills have been lowered and pulled out for a lower, wider stance and a better relationship to the wheels and tires. Both vans feature clean, smooth lines with more pronounced wheel arches, and particular attention was paid to integrating the tracks for the sliding doors.
Preliminary specifications indicate three different engine choices: a 3.3-liter Flex Fuel V6, a 198-horsepower 3.8-liter V6, and a 240-horsepower 4.0-liter V6.
