Even with other manufacturers attacking on all flanks, it's easy to see why
Chrysler has maintained its king-of-the-hill status in minivans. The blend of performance, styling, comfort, durability and sheer vehicular moxie has sustained the appeal of the
Chrysler lines as competitors have tried to improve on the original theme.
Some of these competitors are undeniably successful - the Ford Windstar, for example.
Still, Chrysler owns this category. Since inventing the minivan in 1984, Chrysler has sold four million of them. Chrysler minivans still account for half of the market, which continues to expand, and the Dodge Caravan remains No. 1 in the segment.
Loyalty is so strong that many customers are driving their second or third one.
True, the current Dodge Caravan appears dated next to some of the all newer entries. The same can be said for its all-but-identical siblings, the Plymouth Voyager and the Chrysler Town & Country. But that won't last for long, with a completely redesigned Chrysler minivan lineup due for release in early 1995.
Meanwhile, Chrysler has continued its refinement of the current line, which rolls into its final months with quieter operation and better ride quality.
The
Dodge Caravan looks fine standing by itself. Park it next to a Windstar or
Mercury Villager, however, and it shows its age. Its angular edges have been gradually rounded off over the years, but it still appears boxy by comparison.
However, no minivan manufacturer offers the array of choices that Chrysler does: short- and long-wheelbase versions with four different engines plus a compressed natural gas option. There are also two different automatics and the traction-enhancing option of all-wheel drive on certain models.
The Caravan is available in a variety of trim levels: base, SE, LE and top-of-the-line ES. Our test Caravan was an LE model with Chrysler's 3.3-liter V6.
Pending arrival of the redesigned models, Chrysler plans to keep its minivan momentum rolling in 1995 with more standard equipment and affordable option packages. Some packages include exterior trim items designed to dress up the minivans and update their appearance.
An example: The Caravan SE is available with a Sport group that includes white 5-spoke cast aluminum wheels, a luggage rack, sunscreen glass and black accent trim around the windows.
All 1995 Chrysler minivans offer a Family Value package that allows buyers to add air conditioning, power locks, and map and cargo lamps at a special discount price.
