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Best Minivan: Dodge Grand Caravan
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February 14, 2002: 11:05 a.m. ET
Caravan gets the nod as the top minivan.
By Jerry Edgerton
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NEW YORK (Money Magazine) - I really like the Honda Odyssey. Its power, handling, roominess and handy fold-flat third row of seats add up to a great package. Trouble is, too many people feel that way. Ardent buyers are paying $1,000 to $2,000 over list price and sometimes waiting two to three months for delivery. A new Odyssey plant in Alabama may alleviate the shortage. In the meantime, the Dodge Grand Caravan is my choice for No. 1 value
DaimlerChrysler gave the Grand Caravan a more rugged look last year. Its ready power, crisp handling and comfortable ride give a family what it needs in a minivan. And there are some nifty options: The power rear liftgate ($400) closes with a touch of the key fob, which may help you close it before the dog can escape. Another great option is a built-in DVD player ($1,800) with the screen in the back. (For more on options, check our Car Finder.)
The best value in a Grand Caravan is the eX, with a standard V-6 engine and options that compete with the top-end Odyssey EX. A good negotiator should be able to get the Grand Caravan eX for about $24,740 (about $300 over dealer's cost) before a $655 destination charge and sales tax. That's about $3,800 less than the Odyssey EX, given the typical premium these days.
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