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2018 Dodge Grand Caravan

Starting at $27,645

5/10 C/D RATING
Specs
2018 dodge grand caravan
Chris Doane Automotive|Car and Driver
5/10 C/D RATING

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  • Highs Entry-level pricing, generous interior space, good highway ride.
  • Lows Dated interior design, antiquated infotainment system, lags behind rivals in passenger and cargo room.
  • Verdict The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan provides minivan ride and space at an attractive price, but it falls short of more modern rivals in most areas.

Overview

As the least expensive new minivan on the market, the Grand Caravan has a single selling point: thrift. Its low-rent interior offers space for seven or eight passengers, and its cargo capacity is good, but buyers in the market for a high-tech infotainment package or a suite of active safety features should look elsewhere, perhaps to the Grand Caravan's more modern cousin, the Chrysler Pacifica. You get what you pay for, and the Grand Caravan is a clearance-rack stalwart.

What's New for 2018?

The only change to Dodge’s venerable Grand Caravan for 2018 is the introduction of a new color. Much to the delight of Wolverine fans in Ann Arbor, Michigan, it’s named IndiGo Blue.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

  • SE: $27,645
  • SXT: $33,145

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Under the Grand Caravan’s stubby hood is a 3.6-liter V-6 engine churning out 283 hp. It has a lively feel, yet the Grand Caravan returned a slower zero-to-60-mph time than its competitors. The six-speed automatic transmission, although never abrupt, is hesitant to downshift for extra passing power. The Grand Caravan blends acceptable cornering capability with a comfortable ride. The suspension soaks up most highway bumps just fine, while larger ones do cause some jolts to shudder through the cabin, and harsher impacts disturbed a few loose trim pieces in our test vehicle, resulting in some rattles.

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading "Find & Compare Cars" click on the "Compare Side-by-Side" tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you're interested in.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

If the Grand Caravan’s plasticky cabin trim and uninspired interior design seem outdated, that’s because they are; the van was last redesigned in 2008. A high seating position provides a clear view forward, but passenger space is no match for the Grand Caravan’s more modern rivals. As far as cargo space goes, the Grand Caravan doesn’t quite measure up to its rivals; the Toyota Sienna is the winner of the cargo game. Even so, 140 cubic feet is still voluminous, and the Grand Caravan has adequate small-item storage spots.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Grand Caravan's infotainment system is so antiquated that even a basic AM/FM radio would be simpler and more satisfying to use. Most features are optional, and neither Android Auto nor Apple CarPlay is available. All Grand Caravans come with a 6.5-inch touchscreen and an early version of Fiat Chrysler’s Uconnect software. The menu layout is confusing, on-screen buttons are tiny and hard to actuate while driving, and the system seems clumsy, especially in contrast to the latest version on display in the Chrysler Pacifica. The kids will appreciate the rear-seat entertainment system that is available on all models.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

For more information about the Dodge Grand Caravan’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.

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