2015 Dodge Grand Caravan
I've been driving Dodge Caravans ever since they first appeared on the market (around 1986, I think). My present Dodge Caravan is my 9th one.
I'm 6 feet tall with extremely long thigh bones, and my build makes it hard for me to get my right foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal quickly and accurately without hitting the steering wheel with my knee. From time to time I've tested every mini-van available, but none of them (except the Caravan) has enough space for me to do this vitally important motion. I've had only one major mechanical failure in 35 years: the transmission of my 3rd Caravan failed just after the warranty had expired. Otherwise they have all behaved beautifully.
Being short-waisted, I sit low in the driver's seat, so I appreciate the excellent view of traffic despite this handicap. Over the past 35 years, continued improvements have made the Caravan even better. The ride is now smoother; cornering is easier; driver's seat adjustments offer many more options; earlier "blind spots" have been reduced.
Gas mileage largely depends on weather, load, terrain, locale, etc. The best I ever got was in my 1986 4-cylinder standard shift on the Maine Turnpike heading South with a hefty tail wind: 27 MPG. Going from standard shift to automatic and from 4 cylinders to 6 has naturally reduced MPG, a price I'm willing to pay in exchange for more internal space, increased automatic options (electric sliding side doors & hatch back, safety features, etc.). At mile 80,578, my 2015 Caravan has a very comfortable ride and has performed well. If I need a new car before I stop driving, it will most likely be my 10th Dodge Caravan.
Anne S. Funderburk
Verified Owner
