1996 Dodge Grand Caravan ES - MT Ratings - Long-Term Wrapup - Road Test

Adding to the enjoyment of driving our long-termer was the sport handling package included in the ES option, bringing a firmer suspension, rear anti-roll bar, and 215/65TR16 Michelin MX4 touring tires. The Grand Caravan ran through our 600-foot slalom course at 58.9 mph, and held on to the tarmac for 0.77 g of lateral acceleration around the skidpad. In the real world, the MacPherson-strut front suspension and beam-axle/leaf-spring rear proved capable of delivering a smooth, family-friendly ride with impressive handling characteristics.

Commanded via a leather-wrapped steering wheel augmented by an appropriate amount of power assist, the Grand Caravan is quite responsive given its size and mission. As a Missouri owner wrote, "It drives and rides better than most cars." Survey respondents were extremely pleased with the handling, rating it behind only the second sliding door for best-liked characteristic.

Requiring only two scheduled servicings, the long-term Grand Caravan remained trouble-free and reliable throughout the year. With a final average of 18.5 mpg, fuel was the biggest expense. Surveyed owners of 3.8-liter Grand Caravans reported a similar rate of consumption, at 18.7 mpg. Owners of the 3.0- and 3.3-liter V-6-equipped Grand Caravans claimed fuel usage of 19.4 and 19.5 mpg, respectively. Gas mileage topped the list of owner complaints, but no one expressed the desire to sacrifice power for savings at the pump.

The mountain of the Dodge Caravan's aesthetic, dynamic, economic, and ergonomic virtues compelled the staff to name the Dodge Caravan Motor Trend's 1996 Car of the Year-a decision that has been reinforced by a great year spent with our long-term Grand Caravan. After months of ownership, survey respondents encapsulated their experience in a repeating litany of praise: "All in all, this is the single best major purchase we have ever made," wrote a Texan; another owner wrote, "If I designed and built a minivan for myself, I couldn't like it more than the Grand Caravan."

MT Thumbs UpDual sliding doorsInviting, versatile interiorCivilized road manners

MT Thumbs DownFuel-thirsty 3.8-liter V-6Heavy removable seatsBeing expected to carpool