The queen of versatility
In addition to fuel economy, typical minivan buyers are naturally interested in functionality and versatility. Well, in both cases, the Grand Caravan continues to stand out.
Let's remind you that Chrysler introduced the Stow'n Go system back in 2005 as a way to make the 60/40 split-folding rear bench completely disappear into the floor (like in the 1995 Honda Odyssey). The second-row bucket seats also fold into their respective compartments under the floor.
This clever setup (which eliminated the all-wheel drive system to accommodate the seat storage compartments) allows you to "empty" the interior in just a few minutes without having to retrieve and carry heavy seats. Voilà! You get a flat cargo floor that's large enough for 4'x8' plywood sheets.
With the 2008 Grand Caravan, designers went even further by adding the new Swivel'n Go system. The second-row captain's chairs rotate 180 degrees for face-to-face interaction with the third-row occupants. There's also a removable and stowable table between them. The idea seems fantastic on paper, but in reality, the process is rather complicated. Installing said table requires a good deal of flexibility, while legroom is limited once the table is in place. Therefore, it's not really suited for adults. At least, this innovative option proves cheap ($625).
Cupholders to spare!
Those who like stats and numbers will be happy to learn that the interior of this new minivan offers not one but two large glove boxes and no less than 13 cupholders next to the seven available seats.
What's more, the Grand Caravan can tow a 816-kilo trailer. By selecting the optional towing package, you can increase the vehicle's capacity to 1,588 kilos.
In addition to fuel economy, typical minivan buyers are naturally interested in functionality and versatility. Well, in both cases, the Grand Caravan continues to stand out.
Let's remind you that Chrysler introduced the Stow'n Go system back in 2005 as a way to make the 60/40 split-folding rear bench completely disappear into the floor (like in the 1995 Honda Odyssey). The second-row bucket seats also fold into their respective compartments under the floor.
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| The flat cargo floor is large enough for 4'x8' plywood sheets. |
This clever setup (which eliminated the all-wheel drive system to accommodate the seat storage compartments) allows you to "empty" the interior in just a few minutes without having to retrieve and carry heavy seats. Voilà! You get a flat cargo floor that's large enough for 4'x8' plywood sheets.
With the 2008 Grand Caravan, designers went even further by adding the new Swivel'n Go system. The second-row captain's chairs rotate 180 degrees for face-to-face interaction with the third-row occupants. There's also a removable and stowable table between them. The idea seems fantastic on paper, but in reality, the process is rather complicated. Installing said table requires a good deal of flexibility, while legroom is limited once the table is in place. Therefore, it's not really suited for adults. At least, this innovative option proves cheap ($625).
Cupholders to spare!
Those who like stats and numbers will be happy to learn that the interior of this new minivan offers not one but two large glove boxes and no less than 13 cupholders next to the seven available seats.
What's more, the Grand Caravan can tow a 816-kilo trailer. By selecting the optional towing package, you can increase the vehicle's capacity to 1,588 kilos.
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| The stylish white-face gauges prove easy to read. |