2013 Dodge Grand Caravan: The Embodiment of Versatility

Launched in the early 80s, minivans were an instant hit and sold like hotcakes. Chrysler was the first to offer this type of vehicle and, given its popularity, most competitors quickly followed suit. Initially, General Motors and Ford adopted rear-wheel drive vehicles while the Japanese manufacturers opted for front-wheel drives. Over the years, the wheelbases were extended to create seven- and eight-seat models. However, sales figures have gradually decreased over time, with buyers turning their attention to SUVs equipped with a third row of seats.

Although a lot of minivans are still sold on our market, the offer has been greatly reduced and now only a half-dozen models remain. And yet, minivans are ideal for families and active people who need a versatile vehicle with multiple storage spaces. The Dodge Grand Caravan is the bestselling of all minivans, and we test drove a reasonably well-equipped version of this model.

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TheDodge Grand Caravan is Chrysler’s most popular model. To a certain extent, it owes its popularity to the base model’s very competitive starting price, but all trims offer interesting seat layoutand storage solutions.

Although this Dodge’s exterior wasn’t universally acclaimedwhen the current generation launched in 2011, we’ve slowly gotten usedto its square rear section (whose shape increases cargo capacity). In the passenger compartment, the stylists harmonized the various components nicely, especially the vertical central console that includes a screen in the upper part and air vents over the audio and air conditioning controls.

The two main chrome-contoured gauges are very easy to read with white numbers on a black background. When night falls, beautiful blue lighting illuminates the dials. Also note that there are controls on the steering wheel’s two horizontal spokes. On the back of these spokes are buttons to control the radio. Finally, the shifter is mounted on the dashboard, just to the right of the pod that houses the indicators dials. It’s easy to access and use.

Stow’N Go

The 2011 arrival of the new generation brought greatly improved finish and materials. Moreover, Chrysler is the only manufacturer, along with Volkswagen with its Routan (which is actually a slightly modified Dodge), to offer Stow’NGo– a system that allows you to stash the rear seats in the floor in no time flat. It’s extremely practical and much appreciated. On the other hand, in order to fit below the floor, the seats offer relatively thin padding. Plus, this device made it impossible to install all-wheel drive on any of the trims.

The practicality doesn’t end there. The two sliding side doors are activated by an electronic motor, as is the rear hatch. They can be opened and closed using a remote control, which you’ll really like when you have your hands full.

A magic engine

During the Grand Caravan’s complete makeover three years ago, the engineers pulled off quite a feat by installing the new 283-hp 3.6-litre V6 Pentastar engine. Paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, it ties with the Honda Odyssey’s mill as the best engine in the category. Say goodbye to noisy, agonizingly slow accelerations! This V6 goes from 0-100 km/hr in 9 seconds and change, much like the Odyssey’s engine. Not only are the accelerations more than decent, but the pick-up is good as well. However, we recorded an average fuel consumption of a little less than 13.0 L/100 km, which is slightly higher than the category average. Note that our test drive took place in temperatures hovering around freezing.

On the road, the minivan obeys your every command as long as you respect this vehicle’s purpose. It’s somewhat larger than average, but the Grand Caravan handles itself pretty well in urban traffic. Sure, the steering could be less assisted and more direct but, when you consider its utilitarian nature, it’s forgivable.

In conclusion, our test model was extremely well-equipped, coming withan infotainment system with an integrated DVD player and screen located in the back. It’s a very nice feature to have for long drives, but it’ll cost you. For best value, opt for one of the less expensive trims that is still relatively well equipped and features the Pentastar (this engine makes all the difference).

Despite the biases, the Grand Caravan can effectively meet the needs of a lot of drivers and remains the category benchmark in more ways than one.