What about keeping your loved-ones safe? It would be foolhardy for an automaker to come to market with a family vehicle and not address all-important
safety issues, and Chrysler makes no mistakes about it.
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| Chrysler's rear parking assist system, with sensors housed in the rear fascia, shows how close an object or person is to the rear of the vehicle with multi-colored graduating lights and audible beeps. Just above the fascia, the versatile third row seat is positioned for a tailgate party. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
Of course dual front multi-stage airbags are standard, but the Town & Country goes a step further by including three rows of standard side curtain airbags, stretching from A- to D-pillars. Just like the Pacifica crossover vehicle Chrysler adds a driver's side inflatable knee blocker, which is basically an airbag positioned under the steering column to protect the knees in case of a crash. It inflates simultaneously with the front airbags. I've used Chrysler's rear parking assist system previously in the Pacifica and appreciated its audible beeps and overhead visual display, showing how close an object or person is to the rear of the vehicle with multi-colored graduating lights. On a long-wheelbase van it's a must-have feature, especially if you live in an area where kids might be playing around your parking spot.
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| For now, only U.S. customers will be able to take advantage of the Town & Country's UConnect Bluetooth technology. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
Only U.S. customers will be able to take advantage of the factory-installed UConnect Bluetooth technology, at least at first. It's a wireless system that allows cellular phone/PDA users with Bluetooth equipped portable devices to automatically connect directly to the van's hands-free system without having to hook anything up. Control buttons are located on the rearview mirror within easy reach. According to DaimlerChrysler Canada, this feature has been delayed because of CRTC regulations. I couldn't confirm through the government agency, but Acura includes a working version of the new technology in its latest TL, so something's not adding up. Nevertheless techies, a company spokesman has confirmed that the UConnect feature will be available north of the 49th in the future.
