2008 Dodge Grand Caravan

2008 Dodge Grand Caravan: Minivan with atitude

Wed, Oct 10th 2007

The enlarged ram’s head badge on the front grille of the new, totally redesigned 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan says it all – this is a minivan with attitude.

With so many new and improved gadgets, it’s hard to know where to start. There are power doors all the way around, with multiple storage compartments both in the floor and throughout the cabin.

The power tailgate has been redesigned to provide a more square entry for dog crates, and there are plenty of tie downs to secure everything properly.

And here’s a handy piece of hardware: Power flip seats in the third row. With the touch of a button, the third row seats rotate into one of three options: normal seating, stowed flat into the floor or flipped back to create a tailgate seating option that’s perfect for watching outdoor competitions in comfort and style.

For good fresh air circulation, the second row windows open up and down like a typical sedan, but unlike most typical minivan windows. The back is also kept cool with lift-up window shades on each window, shielding your pets from the hot summer sunlight. They also provide some privacy and security from outside onlookers.

And of course, the “Stow ‘N Go” seating offers plenty of versatility for cargo and canine capabilities. This system allows you to switch the seating configuration from people hauler to crate carrier in just about 30 seconds. When flat, the rear cargo area has space aplenty, enough to carry several large crates or a couple sheets of plywood. Forget to book a hotel for the championships? The flat floor provides great space for sleeping when there’s no room at the inn.

Oh, and it drives well too, with an automatic six-speed, V6 engine that produces up to 251 horsepower and can tow up to 1,800 pounds.

There’s no question about it, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan meets and exceeds all the requirements of the perfect dogmobile. This is truly a “grand” caravan.

-- Keith Turner

Carguy Comments:The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan comes in . five models, with three distinct seating and storage systems and three powertrains, including a minivan-first six-speed transaxle. The 3.3-liter V-6 flex-fuel-capable engine 175 horsepower, while the 3.8-liter V-6 engine 197 horsepower, and the 4.0-liter V-6 aluminum engine produces 251 horsepower. Fuel economy is 17 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway. With the larger (3.8 and 4.0 liter) engines, and trailer tow package, the towing capacity is 3,600 pounds.

-- Keith Turner, The Family Car

2008 Dodge Grand Caravan: The best yet

Barking Lot Banter: Chrysler produced the original minivan decade ago, and ever since the automaker has been a trailblazer in minivan design and innovation. The new model is no exception, with larger cargo area and squared off back, the Grand Caravan is the consummate dogmobile.