It was expected that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) would end production of the Dodge Grand Caravan last year to make space for the Chrysler Pacifica minivan. But the Grand Caravan proved to remain popular with fleet buyers and other price conservative buyers. For 2018, the Grand Caravan is available in a new color choice, IndiGo Blue.
Powering the Grand Caravan is FCA’s 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine with 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This is mated to a 6-speed automatic and front-wheel drive (FWD). Performance from the 6-cylinder is adequate with a 0-60 mph time of under 8 seconds. EPA fuel economy figures for the Grand Caravan stand at 17 city mpg, 25 highway, and 20 combined—average for a minivan. Compared to other minivans, the Grand Caravan’s ride isn’t as smooth, but very little wind and road noise come inside.
Dodge offers the Grand Caravan with seating for seven people. Both rows of rear seats offer enough space for adults and children alike. The seats are comfortable for short trips but may lack padding for longer trips. One unique feature of the Grand Caravan is Stow ‘N Go seating. Optional for the second row and standard for the third row, the seats can be folded into the floor to provide a flat loading area. Cargo space measures 31.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 78.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and 143.8 cubic feet behind the front seats.
The 2018 Grand Caravan will be offered in four trims. The base SE comes with heat and air conditioning for all rows, keyless entry, 6.5-inch touchscreen radio with reversing camera, power windows and locks, and daytime running lights. SE Plus models get the UConnect Handsfree Group that includes Bluetooth hands-free calling and the Blacktop Appearance package that adds blacked out trim and 17-inch aluminum wheels. The SXT brings leather upholstery with suede inserts, automatic headlights, power driver's seat, remote start, and power sliding doors and liftgate. Topping off the Grand Caravan lineup is the GT that adds a performance suspension, 17-inch polished aluminum wheels, 9-speaker audio system, navigation, 3-zone climate control, and window shades.
In terms of safety, the 2018 Grand Caravan is equipped with a full set of airbags, traction and stability control, and tire pressure monitoring. Certain trims can be optioned with the Safety Sphere Group that adds blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross path detection, and rear parking sensors. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has tested the 2018 Grand Caravan in their frontal and rollover tests where it earned a 4-star rating.
The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan begins at $26,250.
