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2009 Dodge Grand Caravan Van

4dr Wgn SE

Starting at $13,300 | Starting at 17 MPG City - 24 MPG Highway

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$13,300 average Retail
$23,890 original MSRP

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Printable Version

2009 Dodge Grand Caravan Van

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

The 7-passenger Grand Caravan SE standard equipment for 2009 includes Stow 'n Go seating, cruise control, vents and mats. The SXT gains more optional equipment, including a dedicated iPod interface, rain-sensing wipers, a blind-spot monitoring system and Rear Cross Path System. All Grand Caravans get improved brakes, while the SXT with the 4.0L V6 gets a sport-tuned suspension derived from the European version of the van. The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has a 3.3L V6 for 175 hp and 205 lb-ft of torque with a 4-speed automatic as standard and getting 17 mpg city/24 mpg hwy and 19 mpg combined. The SXT comes with a 3.8L V6 that produces 197 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque while a 4.0L V6 making 251 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque is optional. Both SXT engines come with a 6-speed automatic and get the same fuel economy at 16 city/23 hwy and 18 combined. All Grand Caravans are front-wheel drive and standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control and full-length side curtain airbags.

Benefits of Driving a 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan Van

The Dodge Grand Caravan--along with the mechanically identical Chrysler Town & Country--continues to have some of the most innovative features, and the 2009 model stands out for its interior, with the Swivel 'n Go arrangement. Chrysler claims that its minivans are still the only ones to offer a seating system like its Stow 'n Go, which allows both the second- and third-row seats to fold fully into the floor. The automaker also says that their optional DVD entertainment system, which is capable playing different media at simultaneously, is a minivan first. Many of the other features now available on the Grand Caravan, including ambient lighting, heated second-row seats and sunshades, are as yet unavailable on much of the competition.

What's new for 2009?

Following a redesign in 2008, the Grand Caravan returns for 2009 with few changes. Braking has been improved on both SE and SXT models. The SXT model gets a sportier suspension and an iPod adapter has been added to the optional UConnect phone system. The SE trim gets standard Stow 'n Go seating with stain-resistant seat fabric, as well as cruise control, an improved instrument cluster, three rows of power seats, and some other minor upgrades. Blind spot monitoring, Rear Cross Path sensing, and rain-sensitive wipers are now options.

Model Strengths

Innovative Swivel 'n Go interior arrangement
interior versatility
available convenience features
available entertainment systems.

Model Review

Two Grand Caravan models are offered for 2009: SE and SXT. The SE is powered by a 3.3L V6 that makes 175 horsepower and 205 pound-feet of torque and is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, while the SXT comes with a 3.8L V6 making 197 horsepower and 230 lb-ft. At the top of the engine range is the optional 4.0L V6, making 251 horsepower and 259 lb-ft. Both the 3.8L and 4.0L V6s are mated to a six-speed transmission.

Printable Version

2009 Dodge Grand Caravan Van

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2009 Dodge Grand Caravan

Source: The Car Connection

TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven several different versions of the Grand Caravan in order to give you this expert opinion. TheCarConnection.com has also researched available road tests for the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan to produce this conclusive review and to help you find the truth where other reviews might differ.

Although the Dodge Grand Caravan underwent a complete redesign last year, the 2009 version receives a myriad of upgrades, including two minivan firsts: Blind Spot Monitoring and a Rear Cross Path system available on SXT models. All 2009 Grand Caravans receive an updated braking system, larger nine-inch DVD screens, and perforated leather seating with French-seamed stitching.

The year-old styling on the Dodge Grand Caravan presents a more squared-off look and represents an edgy departure from the Clorox-bottle shape of the previous generation. Particularly from the rear, the van's boxy design looks as if it were artfully drawn with a drafter's T-square. From the back, it's hard to tell the Dodge apart from its slightly less sporty and more upscale Chrysler Town & Country counterpart. Outside and from the front, there's no mistaking the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan for anything other than a Dodge. The Dodge brand's sporty cross-hair grille tells you that there is a little bit of Ram in this minivan.

Besides the 3.8-liter V-6 that TheCarConnection.com has the most experience with, two other V-6s are available: a 3.3-liter and a 4.0-liter. The 197-horsepower powertrain includes a six-speed automatic, and the combination provides more than adequate performance for this class of vehicle. If you want better acceleration without taking a fuel-economy hit, choose the 4.0-liter V-6 with 251 hp. Pass on the 3.3-liter V-6 altogether because of the four-speed automatic that comes with it. The Dodge Grand Caravan weighs over two tons, so power is an important component of overall driving safety and satisfaction.

The Grand Caravan gained a stiffer unibody from last year's overhaul, which benefited the Caravan in two ways: improved ride quality and a library-like interior. The interior shares the angular style that is so prevalent on the Grand Caravan's exterior, but crafted curves purposefully break up the linearity. With recognition that minivan interiors endure an interminable life with children, hard plastics are used for most every surface that isn't carpeted. The Dodge's white-faced gauges look sporty, and bits of chrome distract you from the...plastic. Storage is excellent, especially with the Stow 'n Go seating standard on SE models.

With all rows facing forward in the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan, seating comfort is very good. The Grand Caravan's long wheelbase of 121.2 inches affords a spacious interior with comfortable seating in all three rows. For you experienced Dodge minivan owners, there is no longer a short-wheelbase Caravan model; Dodge simplified things by just going big, so the Grand Caravan is the only Caravan.

Some buyers will find the innovative, optional Swivel 'n Go second-row bucket seats useful. This option includes second-row seats that can rotate 180 degrees to face the third-row seats. A removable pedestal-mounted table can sprout from the floor in the limited area between the rows. Perhaps the option works for children, but adults will find the face-to-face configuration cramped.

The Dodge Grand Caravan has top five-star and "good" ratings in frontal and side impact, but an IIHS rear-impact rating of marginal--based mostly on seat geometry--keeps it from being a top achiever. Front side airbags, side-curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control are all on the standard-features list, while useful safety options include a Blind Spot Monitoring System and Rear Cross Path System.

The MyGIG entertainment system plus Sirius TV with its roof-mounted twin-screen LCD system should keep kids entertained, while Sirius Travel Link capabilities bring traffic information and other useful services for adults in navigation-equipped versions of the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan.

The Bottom Line:

The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has some innovative features and seating options, but it's no longer at the head of the class in performance or refinement.

Printable Version

2009 Dodge Grand Caravan Van

Safety Ratings What do the Safety Ratings mean? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) performs independent crash testing of new vehicles and then assigns them a score based on their performance. The overall crash test rating is based on how a vehicle performs in the following tests: Driver Crash Grade: Measures the chance of a serious injury to a crash test dummy that is placed in a driver's seat and driven into a fixed barrier at 35 MPH. A five-star rating means there is 10 percent or less chance of injury. Passenger Crash Grade: Similar to the driver crash grade, only now the focus is on the passenger. Rollover Resistance: Simulates an emergency lane change to measure the likelihood of a vehicle rolling over. A five-star rating means there is 10 percent or less risk of rollover. Side Impact Crash Test - Front: Focuses on the front side of a vehicle. It simulates crashes that can occur in intersections by striking a 3,015-pound weight against the side of a vehicle at 38.5 MPH. A five-star rating means there is 5 percent or less chance of injury. Side Impact Crash Test - Rear: Similar to the front side impact test only now the focus is on the rear passenger.
Driver Crash Grade	No consumer rating Rate & Review
Passenger Crash Grade	No consumer rating Rate & Review
Rollover Resistance	No consumer rating Rate & Review
Side Impact Crash Test - Front	No consumer rating Rate & Review
Side Impact Crash Test - Rear	No consumer rating Rate & Review

Safety Features & Equipment

Braking & Traction
4-Wheel ABS	Std
Traction/Stability Control	Std
Tire Pressure Monitoring System	Std

Passenger Restraint
Driver Air Bag	Std
Passenger Air Bag	Std
Side Head Air Bag	Std
Rear Head side Air Bag	Std
Child Safety Locks	Std

Road Visibility
Daytime Running Lights	Opt
Intermittent Wipers	Std
Variable Inter. Wipers	Std

Accident Prevention
Handsfree Wireless	Opt

Security
Alarm	Opt
Anti-theft System	Std

Printable Version

2009 Dodge Grand Caravan Van

Original Warranty Original Warranty An original warranty is the warranty associated with a vehicle when it is brand new. In addition to the original warranty, select items, like tires, are typically covered by respective manufacturers. Also, an act of Federal law sometimes provides protection for certain components, like emissions equipment. The original warranty is often broken down into multiple sections, including: Basic Warranty: Typically covers everything except for parts that wear out through normal use of the vehicle. Examples of non-covered items are brake pads, wiper blades and filters. Drivetrain Warranty: This warranty covers items the basic warranty does not protect. Wear and tear items such as hoses will not be covered, but key items like the engine, transmission, drive axles and driveshaft often will be. Roadside Assistance: The level of service differs greatly with this warranty, but many manufacturers offer a toll-free number that helps provide assistance in case you run out of gas, get a flat tire or lock your keys in the car. Corrosion Warranty: This warranty focuses on protecting you from holes caused by rust or corrosion in your vehicle's sheet metal. Please check the owner's manual, visit a local dealership or look at the manufacturer's website to learn more about the specifics of the warranties that apply to a vehicle.	Miles	Months
Basic	36,000	36
Drivetrain	0	0
Corrosion	100,000	60
Roadside Assistance	36,000	36

Dodge Certified Pre-Owned Warranty Certified Pre-Owned Warranty To be eligible for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) status, vehicles generally must be recent models with relatively low mileage. CPO vehicles must also pass a detailed inspection, outlined by the manufacturer, which is measured by the number of inspected points. Warranty coverage can vary from one manufacturer to the next. While most certified pre-owned programs transfer and extend the existing new car warranty terms, others offer a warranty that simply represents an additional year and mileage value. Always check with the manufacturer for the specific warranties they offer. Common features and benefits of Certified Pre-Owned warranties include: Age/Mileage Eligibility To even be considered for certification, a car must be a recent model year and have limited mileage. The exact requirements are established by individual manufacturers. Lease Term Certified Some manufacturers offer certified pre-owned cars for lease. The length of the lease is often shorter than a new car lease, but it will cost you less. Point Inspection These inspections entail a comprehensive vehicle test to ensure that all parts are in excellent working order. The point inspection list is simply a numbered list of exactly what parts of the car are examined. While many inspections range from a 70- to 150-point checklist, most are very similar and are performed using strict guidelines. Ask your local dealer about specific details. Return/Exchange Program Some manufacturers offer a very limited return or exchange period. Find out if you will get the sales tax and licensing/registration fees back should you return or exchange the car. Roadside Assistance Most certified pre-owned programs offer free roadside service in case your car breaks down while still under warranty. Special Financing Reduced-rate loans are available through many certified pre-owned programs. Manufacturer-backed inspections and warranties help eliminate the risks involved with buying pre-owned, so buyers who qualify can take advantage of the great offers. Transferable Warranty When a new car warranty transfers with the certification of the car and remains eligible for the next owner, it is known as a transferable warranty. Once the original transferable warranty expires, an extended warranty takes effect. Warranty Deductible This is the amount for which you are responsible when repair work is performed under the warranty. Some manufacturers require a deductible while others don't, so always ask.
7-Years/100,000-Miles (whichever comes first) for 2010 model year and newer vehicles; 6-Years/80,000-Miles for 2009 model year and earlier vehicles. Powertrain Limited Warranty runs from the date vehicle was sold as new. A deductible may apply. See dealer for details. 3-Months/3,000-Miles (whichever comes first). Maximum Care Limited Warranty runs from the date of sale of the vehicle or at the expiration of the 3/36 Basic Limited Warranty. For more details and a copy of the limited warranties, see your dealer or call 1-800-677-5782.
Age/Mileage Eligibility	5 years / 75,000 miles
Lease Term Certified	No
Point Inspection	125
Return/Exchange Program	No
Roadside Assistance	Yes
Special Financing	Yes
Transferrable Warranty	Yes
Warranty Deductible	$150