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Dodge Minivans: What's New for 2008

Dodge: New for 2008

From Jeff James, for About.com

2008 Grand Caravan: Exterior 1

The new 2008 Grand Caravan features modern - - but conspicuously conservative - - exterior styling. Dodge undoubtedly learned from Nissan's mistakes with the redesigned Quest, and didn't want to create anything too stylistically radical.

(c) DaimlerChrysler
2008 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN

The Dodge Grand Caravan gets a complete makeover for the 2008 model year, making it the fifth major revision of Chrysler's most popular line of vehicles. Both the interior and exterior have been redesigned, and a raft of new and improved features have been introduced.

Dodge has dropped the short wheelbase (SWB) Caravan for 2008, with the long wheelbase (LWB) Dodge Grand Caravan available in two trim levels: Dodge Grand Caravan SE and Dodge Grand Caravan SXT.

The popular Stow' n Go (link to article) seating system will continue to be available, but is now joined by a "Swivel 'n Go" seating option that allows the second row seats to be rotated to face the rear. A removable table can then be dropped between the 2nd and 3rd rows, which should faciliate things like playing cards, doing homework, eating lunch or firing up the laptop to write an auto review or two.

Dodge hasn't revealed specific sets of features or options by trim level at press time, but has confirmed the following new or improved features for both vehicles:

Engine options:

  • New 4.0L V6 (240 hp and 253 lb.-ft.)
  • 3.8L V6
  • 3.3L FlexFuel V6
Transmission options:
  • New 6-speed automatic (4.0L/3.8L only)
  • 4-speed automatic (3.3L only)
Interior Features:
  • Three seating systems: Stow 'n Go, Swivel ’n Go and second-row bench seat with fold-flat third-row seat
  • Dual glove boxes
  • Umbrella holder
  • Removable sliding "between-seat" console
  • Dishwasher-safe cup holders in front console (13 cup holders total)
  • Dual-screen overhead entertainment system (allows a separate video source to be played on each screen)
  • Hard-drive-based "MyGIG" Digital media system (w/navigation)
  • Rearview conversation mirror
  • YES Essentials stain-resistant cloth fabric
  • Second-row power windows
  • Retractable sunshades (2nd and 3rd row)
  • Heated seats (first and second row, cloth or leather)
  • Remote start feature
  • Ambient lighting
  • Movable LED pinpoint lights (for reading)
  • Removable flashlight (rear quarter panel)

Safety Features:

  • Front, side and side curtain airbags
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Integrated child booster seat
  • Rear back-up camera
  • High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
The 2008 Grand Caravan and Town & Country will be manufactured at Chrysler plants in two locations: Fenton, Missouri and Windsor, Ontario. The vehicle should arrive in North American dealerships by the Fall of 2007.

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