The last 2020 Dodge Grand Caravan Review and Specifications

Overview

Although some say the Dodge Grand Caravan is no more, it's still available for purchase in 2020. It may be the most budget-friendly option when it comes to minivans, but you should ask yourself if that's truly what you desire.

The Grand Caravan is from another decade and does not have driver-assistance features that its more modern rivals offer. Additionally, its infotainment system falls short with an outdated interface and lacks the competitive hardware of other systems on the market. However, it does have a handy and hard-working interior with standard Stow 'n Go second row seats, as well as a durable (read: plasticky) interior - making it a good choice for anyone looking for a bargain car.

What's New for 2020?

Although Dodge has announced that the 2020 model will be the last year for production of the Grand Caravan, there are still some minor updates from 2019. The midrange SE Plus model now comes standard with second-row captain's chairs, an eight-way power driver's seat, and red accent stitching to contrast the black upholstery. A Blacktop Appearance package is now optional on both the SE Plus and SXT models.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Grand Caravan only offers one powertrain option: a naturally aspirated 283-hp V-6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Although this may not be the most exciting engine available, it is familiar and reliable. When the driver is deep into the throttle, the engine emits a surprisingly baritone growl.

Although the Grand Caravan's exhaust note is lackluster, its zero-to-60 time is even worse in comparison to similar minivans. However, it should more than suffice for most needs. The six-speed transmission lags behind the eight-, nine-, and 10-speed automatics of other models, but it generally runs smoothly with few disruptions; the only exception being during passing when it becomes hesitant to downshift.

In other words, the ride quality and handling are nothing special, but sometimes you'll feel a big jolt from the chassis when you hit a pothole. The Grand Caravan does pretty well with body roll for a tall vehicle, and it feels stable through corners and relaxed on long trips.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Given that the Grand Caravan's powertrain is clearly outdated, it doesn't come as a shock that its fuel-efficiency falls short of most of its competitors. In our real-world highway fuel test, it only managed 22 mpg at a consistent 75 mph for 200 miles—worse than its 25-mpg EPA rating. To add insult to injury, the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and Toyota Sienna all exceeded their EPA estimates by more than 2 mpg in the same test.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Grand Caravan may not be the best minivan on the market for people and cargo carrying, but it still offers a great outward view, plenty of cargo space, and ample small-item storage throughout the cabin.

The Grand Caravan's best feature is its ability to convert into a hollowed-out cargo hauler with its trick rear seats that can fold into underfloor bins when not in use. The Chrysler Pacifica also has this thoughtful Stow 'n Go system--with the standard folding third row retracting into a cavity and the available second-row folding seats disappearing neatly into underfloor storage bins, it's easy to see why. When all seats are folded, you're left with a large, flat load floor which makes transporting bulky cargo much easier--and there's no need to remove any heavy seats!

Is the Dodge Grand Caravan a good car?

The Dodge Grand Caravan Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 8 for minivans. The average annual repair cost is $673 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the Grand Caravan.

Do Dodge Grand Caravans last?

The Dodge Grand Caravan can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles on average. It sounds even more impressive when you realize that's about 13-20 years if you cover 15,000 miles per year. However, you'd have to maintain your Caravan properly to enjoy it for that long.

Why did they stop making the Dodge Grand Caravan?

But why did FCA decide to cut out the Journey and Grand Caravan models? It is likely these two vehicles are ending their run in order to reduce the brand's model lineup size, following in the footsteps of the FCA brands Ram, Chrysler, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo, which all offer four or fewer models.