2011 Dodge Grand Caravan

Basic features

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan represents a mini-facelift over the previous models with no much observable changes on the exterior. The interior however has seen the once plastic dominated and squeaky cabin improved.  The family van has been further refurbished with a more polished engine that exudes more power.

Key features

The Grand caravan is excellent in functionality and spots a new great powertrain. This minivan stands up well against its competitors in its segment. It carries a notable and common characteristic in all 2011 minivan models in the US of modifications ranging form slight alterations to full makeovers as seen in the lightly updated Kia Sedona and the completely refurbished new Nissan Quest, Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.

The new modifications on the Gran Caravan make its appearance boxy than the previous models.  The interiors are accessed through hinged front doors into a spacious interior that has shed off the previously dominating plastics doe a more plush material. Minus the cloth upholstery, the grand Caravan represents Chrysler’s sub $ 30,000 minivan though the cloth in the premium doesn’t match grade for metallic and plastic trims around it. The cloth is of a vintage-80s Korean and a little fluffy material with leather being an option for the top 2-trim packages.

Chrysler has cut down the drivetrain options down to only one leaving the 3.6 liter, V-6 with 283-horsepower run by a 6-speed automatic transmission as the only option for every grand Caravan. Chrysler has also moved to own Pentastar in its new domestics which sound more smooth and compact.

The grand Caravan suits its utility perfectly with ample space for passengers and luggage. It features a fold-away set of seats in the second low and the replacement of the thin cushion sits hasn’t aroused any concerns though touring adults may prefer the semi permanent business-class appearing seats of the Odyssey and Sienna. The base van from which the Grand Caravan is derived has three seating rows with a capacity of seven. In the 2011 model, there is an additional Stow ‘N Go for the two rear rows which gives the car a one-touch seat fold mechanism with power folding in the rear most row.

The 2011 caravan continues with the list of electronic features ranking second only behind the Ford Flex with an in-car television. On the list of sophisticated gadgets, the Caravan features the newest and the most inexpensive USB port that support 3G dongles which transform the Caravan into a full WiFi system only lacking a barista. There are options for a Sinus backseat TV alongside SpongeBob marathons; navigation, radio, satellite, Bluetooth and a media hard drive for the top models.