So you need a vehicle capable of transporting your family around and have decided on the seven-passenger Dodge Grand Caravan, perhaps because its price is below that of most competitors in its class. Or perhaps because of Dodge’s Stow ‘n Go seating system.
Now comes the decision on which version to purchase. The Grand Caravan comes in three trim levels: the base SE, the SE Plus, and the SXT. Let’s take a look at what each has to offer.
SE
The front-wheel-drive base model comes with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that produces 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It has a six-speed automatic transmission, power rack-and-pinion steering, cruise control, front independent suspension and rear twist-beam suspension, 17-inch wheels, and a tire-pressure-monitoring system.
Behind the second-row bench seat, the SE’s third row 60/40 split bench folds into the floor with Dodge’s Stow ‘n Go seating system.
The air-conditioning system offers separate controls for the driver, front passenger, and back-row passengers. Cloth seat trim is standard, along with sliding second-row doors on both sides. The SE comes with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an observation mirror (to watch the kids in the back seats without turning around), heated outside mirrors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and keyless remote entry.
The audio system features six speakers, a CD player, 6.5-inch touchscreen, auxiliary audio jack, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
Safety is standard, too. All models have electronic stability control, trailer sway damping (to keep the vehicle and trailer under control), a rear back-up camera and sliding-door alert. Air bags? The Grand Caravan has advanced multistage front air bags, a driver inflatable knee-bolster air bag, seat-mounted side air bags in the first row, and side-curtain air bags in all rows.
SE Plus
Technology gets an upgrade here. Bluetooth streaming audio and Uconnect voice control are standard, as is SiriusXM satellite radio (with a free one-year subscription), and a remote USB port.
On the exterior, there are polished aluminum alloy wheels and a Blacktop appearance package. Fog lights and automatic headlamps are added. Inside, the seats get premium cloth upholstery, and a front center console is added.
The SE Plus comes with a remote starting system, allowing you to start the engine from several feet away (so you can preheat or cool the interior) with your key fob. It also comes with a security system that will activate the horn and lights during an unauthorized entry.
SXT
This level offers the Stow ‘n Go system with second-row bucket seats and third-row tailgate seats. All fold into the floor, leaving 140 cubic feet of storage space. When the seats are not folded down, the in-floor bins provide 12 cubic feet of storage space.
Sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle are power-activated, as is the rear liftgate. The SXT adds silver aluminum alloy wheels.
The driver enjoys more luxury in this trim level, with a seat that is power adjustable eight ways, including two-way lumbar support. All seating gets leather upholstery with suede inserts, and there is a larger center console.
Figured it out yet? If so, go to Goldstein Chrysler Jeep Dodge and check out our selection of Grand Caravans.
