2008 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan

With many consumers deciding to buy large SUVs some automakers feel that the minivan is dead. Chrysler does not share that sentiment. Gas prices are going to push some consumers towards the minivan, as are some of the interior improvements. The 2008 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Caravan boast over 35 new or improved features ensuring that Chrysler remains king of the hill in the minivan segment.

The idea Chrysler has for the minivan is "living room on wheels". To help make this idea a reality is the innovative Swivel ‘n Go seating system. Probably the most noteworthy new feature, Swivel ‘n Go allows the second row captains chairs to swivel 180 degrees and face the back seat. A table can be placed in between the second and third row seats that can used for a number of things from playing cards to eating. Two fold down screens are available along with headsets to listen to them. Another first for the minivan (or any auto) is the availability of Sirius backseat TV with three channels available: The Disney Channel, Cartoon Network, and Nickelodean.

“Chrysler Group engineers continue to bring fresh ideas to the minivan segment,” said Larry Lyons, Vice President – Chrysler Group Front-wheel-drive Product Team. “This time, we turn the tables on traditional seats with a technology that lets families have more choices of how to spend their time while traveling. With Swivel ’n Go, second- and third-row passengers can face each other to have a conversation, play games or have a meal on the go.”

Those are not the only convenience features of the new 2008 minivans. Heated seating for the first and second row of seats and remote start are sure to be a hit with people in colder climates. Power sliding doors and an automatic lift gate make getting kids and groceries in and out of the vehicle easier. A rear facing conversation mirror hides a sunglass holder up front. To make sunny days more bearable there are retractable shades for the second and third row. Three zone heating and cooling system allow each row to have its own climate. The second row even has slide down windows. When driving at night the passengers have ambient lighting as well as small movable reading lights available to them.

“The 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan offer the best package of features for today’s busy families,” said Landry. “With a dual DVD system that plays different media at the same time, pinpoint LED lighting to read by, a table to play games or finish homework, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic, power sliding doors and liftgate and YES Essentials® fabric seats, every member of the family will enjoy their journey.”

There are three engines to choose from to get these vans moving. A 4.0L V6 (251 hp, 259 lb-ft) mated to a 6 speed transmission. A 3.8L V6 (197 hp, 230 lb-ft) also mated to the 6 speed transmission. For people wanting to save on their gas bills a 3.3L V6 (175 hp, 205 fl-lb) that can use E85 is available. The 3.3L is paired with a 4 speed transmission.

Between the Chrylser and Dodge brand there are five total models available. In the Dodge brand are the SE and SXT, Chrysler has the Town and Country LX, Town and Country Touring, and the Town and Country Limited.