2000 Chrysler Town & Country Review
2002 Dodge Grand Caravan AWD
Fifteen years ago, Chrysler came up with the first minivan. Based on the Reliant, it was available only with a four-cylinder engine with under 100 hp; those who wanted more speed could get a manual transmission. Times have definitely changed; now, Chrysler is just about the only holdout with a four cylinder engine (150 hp!), and everyone has a V6, automatic, and every convenience imaginable, from cupholders to TV.
Driving a 2000 Town & Country made us wonder why anyone would buy an expensive Ford Expedition. Machismo? Stubbornness? The Town & Country is cheaper, seems larger inside, has a nicer ride, and gets nearly ten more miles for every gallon of gas (in our experience). Did we mention the all wheel drive versions, for those who claim to want an SUV for bad weather? All wheel drive, unlike four wheel drive, does not destroy your turning radius...and it is on all the time. Quality has been rising steadily, and the transmissions are ready for prime time - if you do not put in the wrong fluid! (No Dexron.)
About the Chrysler Town & Country
Though the Town & Country has a lofty position as the most expensive and lavish minivan, we drove the "decontented" version, the LX, which is just about identical to the Plymouth Grand Voyager and Dodge Grand Caravan - and will be sold alongside the 2000 Chrysler Grand Voyager. This only supports our idea that Chrysler executives are not paying attention; fortunately, the engineers are.
2002 Dodge Grand Caravan AWD
Fifteen years ago, Chrysler came up with the first minivan. Based on the Reliant, it was available only with a four-cylinder engine with under 100 hp; those who wanted more speed could get a manual transmission. Times have definitely changed; now, Chrysler is just about the only holdout with a four cylinder engine (150 hp!), and everyone has a V6, automatic, and every convenience imaginable, from cupholders to TV.
|
Driving a 2000 Town & Country made us wonder why anyone would buy an expensive Ford Expedition. Machismo? Stubbornness? The Town & Country is cheaper, seems larger inside, has a nicer ride, and gets nearly ten more miles for every gallon of gas (in our experience). Did we mention the all wheel drive versions, for those who claim to want an SUV for bad weather? All wheel drive, unlike four wheel drive, does not destroy your turning radius...and it is on all the time. Quality has been rising steadily, and the transmissions are ready for prime time - if you do not put in the wrong fluid! (No Dexron.)
About the Chrysler Town & Country
Though the Town & Country has a lofty position as the most expensive and lavish minivan, we drove the "decontented" version, the LX, which is just about identical to the Plymouth Grand Voyager and Dodge Grand Caravan - and will be sold alongside the 2000 Chrysler Grand Voyager. This only supports our idea that Chrysler executives are not paying attention; fortunately, the engineers are.
Review Notes |