The raw numbers:
Dodge Grand Caravan, SE/Base
Engine: 3.3L OHV V-6 rated at 180 hp and 210 ft-lb torque
Transmission: 4-spd Lock-Up Converter
Drivetrain: FWD
Avg. Speed: 32 mph
Time: 1.3 hours
Miles Driven: 42.9
Temp Range: 70-80F
- Same old Chrysler-Brand Minivan Inside and Out
- Floppy handling, shifting, and suspension response
- Horrible Economy
+ "Stow 'N Go" Seating
+ Easy to maneuver in slow situations (parking lots, etc.)
+ Convenient hauler
EPA: 19/26/21 (MPG)
MPG as Tested: 18.5MPG (ouch)
Conclusion: Again, mixed driving, mostly highway, and it fell short of EPA
estimates. My first regular driver was a 1988 Plymouth Voyager with the
Mitsubishi 3.0 DOHC V-6, and as nerdy as it was in high-school, it hauled
not only stuff, but also the "mail". It was also fairly efficient. What is
going on here? Minivan engines just keep getting bigger and they're
becoming no better in FE than SUVs. The fold-flat seats are clever and
makes hauling a variety of stuff easily, but those thin seats are like
stadium bleachers on one's backside. Designed as the entry-level, Large
Minivan, the Grand Caravan tested (Grand meaning longer wheelbase) had rear
Heat and A/C, and plenty of utility. But alas, I've had similarly poor FE
results when fully loaded with passengers/cargo, and the brakes during that
rental were terrible and faded into oblivion. I don't know why they keep
selling gobs of these vans. I guess they do the trick. But even the
4-banger isn't much better on FE. Car-Based wagons, in my opinion, are
still cool and efficient -- even some cross-overs -- and they can haul what
you need. Get one of those instead if you really need it. Otherwise,
calculate your passenger capacity and concurrent cargo load, then choose.
You may even fit into such a vehicle as a Pontiac/Toyota Vibe/Matrix, Honda
Fit, or Kia Spectra-5.
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