we've had a few 08 Grand Caravans show up at work (I work at a Chrysler store). Theyve just been the SE base model with a few options... but so far i really like them. took a bit for them to grow on me... but i really like what theyve done with them! they handle nice and tight too!
FastEd1500
08-31-2007, 06:32 AM
NIce, I should be getting one soon.
vegashiker
08-31-2007, 08:51 AM
I have been looking at the dodge.com website about the new Caravan. I see that when you specify the 4 liter/6 speed option, that it mandates something called the Euro Suspension. When I look at the Chrysler T&C website, they make no mention of that. nor on dodge.com if you go with the smaller CI engines.
To the person at the dealership, can you tell me what exactly is a "Euro" suspension, and how will it differ from the standard Caravan suspension. The folks at dodge.com online chat don't have any info on that yet.
I carry about 400 lbs on o regular basis over the rear axle (handicap power chair lift and power chair via tailgate).
The 08 will be replacing a 97 Caravan SE,
Thanks in advance.
mrbizness1
09-01-2007, 07:46 PM
I also notice they are only showing the grand caravan. Looks like they are not making the swb anymore.
StormTrooper03
09-01-2007, 08:25 PM
I myself do not like them. I myself can not see paying in excess of 25K for a van with a plastic dash. Make that I can not see paying 25K for any vehicle with a plastic dash. I do not care if they auto mfgs are going to this or not. I am not, nor will I ever be a fan of plastic dashes. Yea its ok in lil sh!t boxes cause they are cheap, but come on get some class. Bas enough that most of the interior in todays vehicles are plastic, now ya gotta do the dash too!!!
vegashiker
09-02-2007, 09:07 AM
They dropped the SWB and the manual transmission option due to low sales compared with the LWB.
hemimech
09-03-2007, 07:34 PM
"Euro" suspensions are typically firmer so spring rates a bit heavier with a touch more shock dampening. The 4.0L 6 speed option is rated to tow 3500 lbs. that 1500 lbs. more than a base V6 vehicle. The 17" wheels/tires on the 4.0L will handle better with more weight but will ride somewhat firmer than the 16" on the base models. 400lbs of wheel chair equipment over the rear axle doesn't sound like much. A couple of adults sitting in the back seat would simulate that when you take a test drive. It will probably ride nice and balanced with the extra weight back there. The 3.3L& 3.8L engines are near bullet proof work horses that get the job done. The 4.0L is a reworked 3.5L engine that has been around since 1998 in the LH platforms. The 4.0L has good lower end torque and really brings on the HP at the upper end. Vehicle actually feels fast(for a Van).
donald7150
09-03-2007, 08:54 PM
They dropped the SWB and the manual transmission option due to low sales compared with the LWB.
Manual Transmission?? as in Autostick?
mrbizness1
09-03-2007, 09:29 PM
They dropped the SWB and the manual transmission option due to low sales compared with the LWB.
That might cost them sales. I have a grand now, but my kids are grown and I would go for the swb van. The swb is lighter and easier to park.
bw03
09-03-2007, 09:37 PM
That might cost them sales. I have a grand now, but my kids are grown and I would go for the swb van. The swb is lighter and easier to park.
I agree. I like my swb van for it's size and have no need for a lwb van.
vipergg
09-03-2007, 10:47 PM
That is true 2007 was the last year for the SWB , which i think is a stupid move on their part , i see lots of SWB's around and some people don't want to drive the bigger models . I was one of them and why I opted for a 2007 SWB SXT model .
sca
09-04-2007, 08:52 AM
I have seen one going down the Highway on a trailer. Not sure if I like them....looks a lot like a Hyundai and/or Nitro mixture. Hope they do well with the new design!
hemimech
09-04-2007, 09:41 AM
From a Chrysler Q&A website:
"The market has moved away from short-wheelbase minivans. Over 80 percent of Chrysler Group sales have been long wheelbase and only the Chrysler Group and Kia made a short wheelbase in the 2007 model year."
With a new platform design its an impossible business case to justify the hundreds of non-interchangable SWB/LWB(only 9" difference) parts for less than 20% take rate. Market response for any automaker is to build what sells.
