But just dubbing them "one-hand" doesn't really do the system's folding mechanism justice. Dodge adds a convenient strap to the back of the seats so that, at least in the rearmost position, it's not necessary to lean over awkwardly to tumble it down. What's more, the rear headrests don't need to be removed due to a smart design that keeps them almost flush with the top edge of the seatback, similar in execution to the new Ford Freestar. This saves time and cargo space, plus makes the van safer as no loose headrests can turn into projectiles during an accident. The entire folding process is said to take about 30 seconds to complete.
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| "Stow 'n Go offers unmatched convenience, versatility, and storage. It gives customers the ability to easily fold their second- and third-row seats into the floor and conveniently store items." (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
"Stow 'n Go represents yet another leapfrog for the Chrysler Group in the minivan market segment," stated Dieter Zetsche, President and Chief Executive Officer, Chrysler Group. "Stow 'n Go offers unmatched convenience, versatility, and storage. It gives customers the ability to easily fold their second- and third-row seats into the floor and conveniently store items. Stow 'n Go is one of more than 15 new features (14 in Canada as Bluetooth technology is not yet featured) and safety enhancements to look for on our new 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans."
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| A sturdy floor opens up to two large compartments, ideal for hiding valuables such as camera equipment or a laptop, when the second row seats are upright. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
Store items? One look at the second row seating system shows that the "minivan brand" has increased hidden storage capacity measurably. While all automaker's third row folding seat systems feature increased storage in the deep well left when the seat is upright, none yet has offered lidded stowage in the floor under the second seats. A sturdy floor opens up to two large compartments, ideal for hiding valuables such as camera equipment or a laptop, when the second row seats are upright - which is most of the time if you've ever used a minivan for family duties. When totaled up, second- and third-row storage bins add 340 L (12.0 cu ft) of storage space - about the size of a common compact to midsize sedan's trunk.
What else? The rear seat can also flip backward, perfect for creating a sheltered outdoor seating area when camping. Also, a unique rear shelf doubles as a cargo organizer with handy folding sides, adding cargo capacity if there isn't already enough.