Upgraded interior befits Pentastar’s performance
The Grand Caravan has never been a bench-setter in terms of cabin splendor despite being a leader in functionality with such conveniences as Stow’n Go rear seating. For 2011 the expansive cabin has been modernized with new architecture but more importantly, it’s been glamorized.
The attractive environs now benefit from higher quality materials throughout that reduce reliance upon hard plastics and low-rent finishes. New second row Stow’n Go seats are larger and more substantial than before, so there’s no longer a “comfort compromise” in choosing these disappearing perches.
It’s dramatically evident that the immense cabin improvements allotted the Grand Caravan put it the same league as its competition, and generally for much less dough. And it’s not just cabin décor that enhances time spent therein.
Revised suspension improves the ride
In addition to the new engine and well-earned interior upgrades, Dodge has reworked the underpinnings of the Grand Caravan for 2011 to improve ride comfort and handling composure. I was quite pleasantly surprised within the first few clicks behind my tester’s wheel; it rode far smoother than I had anticipated.
And while it’s a smooth riding vehicle, it’s not a sports car when it comes to outright handling capabilities. Then again, it’s not supposed to be a sports car, it’s a family transporter that emphasizes comfort for all – and that’s just fine with me.
Overall, the 2011 Grand Caravan delivered a remarkably gentle, quiet ride that again led me to perceive it as a more expensive vehicle.
Value in vans
My nicely contented Crew trim-level tester started at $27,995. This price includes 17-inch aluminum wheels, tri-zone climate control, power-operated front seats, power adjustable pedals, fog lights, roof rack and more.
The Grand Caravan has never been a bench-setter in terms of cabin splendor despite being a leader in functionality with such conveniences as Stow’n Go rear seating. For 2011 the expansive cabin has been modernized with new architecture but more importantly, it’s been glamorized.
The attractive environs now benefit from higher quality materials throughout that reduce reliance upon hard plastics and low-rent finishes. New second row Stow’n Go seats are larger and more substantial than before, so there’s no longer a “comfort compromise” in choosing these disappearing perches.
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| For 2011 the expansive cabin has been modernized with new architecture but more importantly, it’s been glamorized. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
It’s dramatically evident that the immense cabin improvements allotted the Grand Caravan put it the same league as its competition, and generally for much less dough. And it’s not just cabin décor that enhances time spent therein.
Revised suspension improves the ride
In addition to the new engine and well-earned interior upgrades, Dodge has reworked the underpinnings of the Grand Caravan for 2011 to improve ride comfort and handling composure. I was quite pleasantly surprised within the first few clicks behind my tester’s wheel; it rode far smoother than I had anticipated.
And while it’s a smooth riding vehicle, it’s not a sports car when it comes to outright handling capabilities. Then again, it’s not supposed to be a sports car, it’s a family transporter that emphasizes comfort for all – and that’s just fine with me.
Overall, the 2011 Grand Caravan delivered a remarkably gentle, quiet ride that again led me to perceive it as a more expensive vehicle.
Value in vans
My nicely contented Crew trim-level tester started at $27,995. This price includes 17-inch aluminum wheels, tri-zone climate control, power-operated front seats, power adjustable pedals, fog lights, roof rack and more.
 |
| The 2011 Grand Caravan delivered a remarkably gentle, quiet ride that again led me to perceive it as a more expensive vehicle. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |