The 3.8-liter V6 available for the Grand Caravan delivers strong power. This big V6 is responsive when merging into fast freeway traffic, accelerating from intersections, or passing on two-lane roads. The 3.8-liter engine is rated at 215 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque and employs a traditional overhead-valve design rather than the more contemporary overhead-cam setup found on many imports. We recommend anyone who regularly carries a heavy load of passengers get the 3.8-liter engine. An optional towing package is available with the 3.8-liter engine that raises the Caravan's trailer tow rating to a 3800 pounds.

Models equipped with the 3.3-liter V6, have enough power to climb hills without breathing hard, and merging onto the freeway doesn't give you visions of your life insurance salesman. The engine is smooth and quiet when cruising, although it makes itself known under full-throttle acceleration. The 3.3-liter engine is rated 180 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, which is significantly less than the 3.8-liter. The 3.8-liter engine is rated 18/25 mpg City/Highway by the EPA, while the 3.3-liter is rated 19/26. Both are rated as low-emissions vehicles in all 50 states. The 3.3-liter V6 is a flexible-fuel engine, so it can use E85 ethanol.

We haven't tested models with the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, but with just 150 horsepower and, more important, 167 pound-feet of torque, we don't expect it to be a rocket. It's rated 21/27 mpg.

The Grand Caravan's brakes offer good feel, performance and durability. Standard brakes are discs in front with heavy-duty rotors and drums at the rear. ABS is standard on all Grand Caravans and optional on Caravan SXT; ABS allows the driver to brake and steer in a panic stop. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on Grand Caravan SXT. Disc brakes generally offer more resistance to brake fade (the tendency of the brakes to lose performance when heated by repeated use) than drum brakes.

Summary

When it comes to switching between big loads of cargo, people and pets, Chrysler's new Stow 'n Go seating system makes the Dodge Grand Caravan one of the most versatile minivans available. Other revisions enhance refinement and add convenience.

The Dodge Caravan's roomy interior offers convenient, carefree motoring. The driving experience is controlled and enjoyable. And there's lots of V6 power available in the lineup. A wide selection of models means there's a Caravan or Grand Caravan to fit most budgets.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:Dodge Caravan SE ($18,330); Caravan SXT ($22,315); Grand Caravan SE ($21,315); Grand Caravan SE Plus ($24,310); Grand Caravan SXT ($26,315)

Engines:150-hp 2.4-liter dohc 16-valve inline-4; 180-hp 3.3-liter ohv 12-valve V6; 215-hp 3.8-liter ohv 12-valve V6

Transmissions:4-speed automatic

Safety equipment (standard):driver and passenger airbags with multi-stage inflators, front belt pretensioners and force limiters, LATCH child seat anchorage on middle and rear seats

Safety equipment (optional):front side-impact airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control

Basic warranty:3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled in:Windsor, Ontario; St. Louis, Missouri