Contents
Overview
Dodge is unwilling to part with its beloved family-friendly Grand Caravan, so it has made the decision to keep offering it in 2019 — even if other competitors and its own corporate sibling, the Chrysler Pacifica, outmatch it.
If you are looking to save money on your next minivan, the Grand Caravan is an excellent choice. It boasts a spacious interior that can accommodate seven or eight passengers and ample cargo capacity; however, if modern infotainment technology or driver-assistance features matter to you, then this vehicle may not be right for you. Depending on your situation, the Grand Caravan could either be seen as a shrewd bargain or simply outdated – but at least it comes with an affordable price tag!
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The only powertrain option available on all trim levels of the Grand Caravan is a 283-hp V-6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While familiar, it’s far from unique. Despite its everyday qualities, when you really make use of the throttle the V-6 emits an unexpectedly low and throaty growl – but that sound doesn’t mean this vehicle has any more performance than other tested minivans; in fact, our zero to sixty tests showed that it had one of the slowest times!
Despite the six-speed transmission not being able to compete with competitors’ eight-, nine-, and 10-speed automatics, it is more than suitable for its purpose. With no fuss except a slight hesitation when downshifting during passing maneuvers, it shifts smoothly without fail.
Additionally, the Grand Caravan offers a comfortable ride and good handling. Body roll is handled optimally for its size and shape, providing an even-keeled experience when turning corners or simply cruising along. The well-weighted steering also gives some sense of engagement to the driver as they take it around turns. Plus, you can expect a firm brake pedal with a stopping distance from 70 mph in 180 feet – right within average expectations!
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
It’s no shock that the Grand Caravan’s fuel economy estimates are far lower than its modern rivals, given how outdated its powertrain is. Sadly, our real-world test revealed this to be true with a result of just 22 mpg at 75 mph – 3 less than its 25-mpg EPA rating. Even worse was that while it failed miserably, other competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna exceeded their EPA ratings by 2 or more mpg in our same test!
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Safety is often a key consideration for minivan shoppers, but unfortunately the Grand Caravan’s safety chops are hindered by lackluster crashworthiness results and a dearth of driver-assist tech. Awarded a four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it failed to earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Although the Grand Caravan earned a Good rating in most of the IIHS’s tests, its Poor result on the small-overlap test is disheartening. While other competitors do a lot better, what is less forgivable about this vehicle is that it fails to provide driver-assistance features such as lane-departure and forward-collision warnings, adaptive cruise control, parking assist and more – even for SE Plus and SXT trims. The only standard safety components are traction control stability systems tire pressure monitor systemand backup camera.
The GT trim, catering solely to fleet customers, offers the essential Safety Sphere package. This comprehensive bundle includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and parking sensors – all in one convenient option!
Is Dodge Grand Caravan a good car?
The Dodge Grand Caravan Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 8 for minivans. The average annual repair cost is $673 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the Grand Caravan.
Are grand caravans reliable?
The Grand Caravan’s Pentastar V6 has above-average reliability, with Motor Reviewer claiming that drivers can hit 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some have lasted up to 500,000 miles. Buying a used Grand Caravan also means owning a piece of history.
Is a Dodge Caravan worth buying?
Is the 2020 Dodge Grand Caravan a Good Used Minivan? The 2020 Grand Caravan is not a very good used minivan. Though it has a powerful engine and convenient folding Stow ‘n Go seats, this Dodge lags rivals in most areas. It has a stiff ride, an outdated infotainment system, and a low-rent cabin.