Overview

The Dodge Grand Caravan is a 7-passenger minivan that was first introduced for the 1984 model year. Unlike the truck-based large vans of the era, the smaller Caravan was built on a unibody platform to offer carlike ride and handling. Consumers embraced the new minivan, and a new segment was launched. The current, fifth-generation Grand Caravan was launched in 2008 with a standard long wheelbase. The 2011 model year finds Dodge's minivan competing against all-new models from Toyota, Honda, and Nissan. As a result, the automaker has made several changes to keep its offering up to date. These include a new engine, recalibrated suspension, lowered ride height, increased sound deadening, new LED ambient lighting, and an improved interior.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is offered in five trims: C/V, Express, Mainstreet, Crew, and R/T. The entry-level variant is a cargo van, or C/V. It is designed for commercial use, so it is lightly equipped. The balance of the lineup is passenger-oriented, with three rows of seating including the automaker's Stow 'n Go seats that are designed to drop out of the way to increase capacity. Grand Caravan Express models arrive with 3-zone climate control, cloth upholstery, 6-speaker audio, and more. The Mainstreet trim adds power windows for the second and rear rows and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Crew arrives with a power sliding door, roof rack, 3-zone automatic climate control, power driver's seat, trip computer, universal garage door opener, 17-inch alloy wheels, and more. The R/T is fitted with a sport suspension, leather upholstery, premium Infinity sound system, and other upscale appointments. Major options on the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan include a power liftgate, automatic headlights, rearview camera, navigation system, and Bluetooth phone connectivity.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan's standard engine is a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder rated at 283 horsepower. Power is sent to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is not offered. The EPA rates the fuel economy of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan between 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. While the engine is E85-compatible, fuel economy will be lower with that particular fuel type.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan C/V has a base price of around $22,000 and tops out with the Grand Caravan R/T, which starts at around $31,000.