It's likely the ultimate low-buck family hauler, but keep an eye on the transmission
Here's a common question I get from my twenty-something friends who have begun to get married and start families.
"I need a bigger vehicle. The coupe (or hatchback) is too small now with the kid and the dog... I want an SUV but they're too expensive. The wife doesn't want a sedan, because she says it'll be too small. It's also got to be decent on fuel. We may have more kids too. What do I do??"
Uh-oh. You need a minivan! Not to fret. Few machines match the seats-per-dollar equation of these sliding-door superheroes. Since they're built on car platforms, the ride and handling tend to be decent- as does the fuel economy.
A minivan is the cheapest, most sensible way to move around a small but growing family. Dodge invented the minivan many years back, and it's been a best-seller ever since. In fact, parent company Chrysler is the only American automaker to still build them.
They're largely considered reliable and trustworthy machines- and the latest generation Chrysler minivans have just been launched, meaning lease returns are ripe for the picking on dealer lots. After recommending a few-year-old model to friends as an inexpensive and reliable used hauler, many have reported finding excellent pricing on models from the mid-2000 model year range.
There's plentiful selection too. Shoppers can expect to find options including a DVD or VCR-based entertainment system and sunroof. Two engines were available, and there was an automatic and invisible all wheel drive system for added traction in slippery conditions. Antilock brakes were fitted to many models as well.
Depending on the model you're looking at, power came from a 3.3 liter V6 with 180 horsepower, or an optional 3.8 liter V6 with 205 ponies. Dodge offered an extended-wheelbase version, designated as the "Grand Caravan", which offered more room. An up-scale luxury model called the Town and Country used the same chassis but provided a more luxurious and premium experience that was branded under the Chrysler marque.
Stow and Go seating was available, allowing seats to be collapsed into a floor-mounted storage compartment when not in use. With seats in the upright position, the stowage compartment could be used to carry luggage, food or tools. Fold all the seats down, and there's a big enough space to sleep two people or carry along some skis, bikes, fishing rods or furniture. The Caravan can go from family hauler to pickup-truck in a matter of seconds.
Here's a common question I get from my twenty-something friends who have begun to get married and start families.
"I need a bigger vehicle. The coupe (or hatchback) is too small now with the kid and the dog... I want an SUV but they're too expensive. The wife doesn't want a sedan, because she says it'll be too small. It's also got to be decent on fuel. We may have more kids too. What do I do??"
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| 2001 Grand Caravan ES |
Uh-oh. You need a minivan! Not to fret. Few machines match the seats-per-dollar equation of these sliding-door superheroes. Since they're built on car platforms, the ride and handling tend to be decent- as does the fuel economy.
A minivan is the cheapest, most sensible way to move around a small but growing family. Dodge invented the minivan many years back, and it's been a best-seller ever since. In fact, parent company Chrysler is the only American automaker to still build them.
They're largely considered reliable and trustworthy machines- and the latest generation Chrysler minivans have just been launched, meaning lease returns are ripe for the picking on dealer lots. After recommending a few-year-old model to friends as an inexpensive and reliable used hauler, many have reported finding excellent pricing on models from the mid-2000 model year range.
There's plentiful selection too. Shoppers can expect to find options including a DVD or VCR-based entertainment system and sunroof. Two engines were available, and there was an automatic and invisible all wheel drive system for added traction in slippery conditions. Antilock brakes were fitted to many models as well.
Depending on the model you're looking at, power came from a 3.3 liter V6 with 180 horsepower, or an optional 3.8 liter V6 with 205 ponies. Dodge offered an extended-wheelbase version, designated as the "Grand Caravan", which offered more room. An up-scale luxury model called the Town and Country used the same chassis but provided a more luxurious and premium experience that was branded under the Chrysler marque.
Stow and Go seating was available, allowing seats to be collapsed into a floor-mounted storage compartment when not in use. With seats in the upright position, the stowage compartment could be used to carry luggage, food or tools. Fold all the seats down, and there's a big enough space to sleep two people or carry along some skis, bikes, fishing rods or furniture. The Caravan can go from family hauler to pickup-truck in a matter of seconds.
 |
| 2001 Grand Caravan ES |