Used 2007 Dodge Caravan

Dodge started the minivan revolution and continues to be a major player in an ever-expanding segment. Though not as large as the newest vans from Hyundai and GM, the Caravan continues to provide a pleasing mixture of family-friendly features and affordability. The Caravan’s small wheelbase makes it easier to maneuver and park than its larger sibling, the Grand Caravan, though its standard four-cylinder engine is no match for a good V6. With the demise of the Mazda MPV, the Caravan doesn’t face much in the way of direct competition, at least not the four-cylinder model. It does, however, have to contend with the Kia Sedona, a larger and better-equipped minivan that sells for about the same price.

The base Caravan has a four-cylinder engine that you’ll likely find less-than-optimal for pulling the Caravan’s weight. The SXT’s more potent 3.3-liter V6 offers a much better choice. Though somewhat raucous under full throttle, the V6’s pick-up is good as long as you are not loaded down with passengers and gear. As for handling, the Caravan has an exceptionally smooth ride, but its steering and braking earn only acceptable ratings from our testing staff when using the Mazda MPV as the standard.

Base models include cloth-covered seats, full carpeting, a driver’s knee airbag and a host of standard features. The Caravan can seat seven but gives up most of its cargo hold with the third-row bench in place. SXT trims can be nicely outfitted to include U-Connect hands-free phone, rear-seat DVD and three-row side-curtain airbags.

Like the Chrysler Town & Country, the Caravan and Grand Caravan have a smooth exterior, slightly rounded and handsomely detailed with such features as sporty alloy wheels and Dodge’s signature crossbar grille.

U-Connect Technology
U-Connect hands-free cell phone technology allows the driver to integrate his cell phone with the vehicle’s onboard communications and entertainment system.

Knee Airbag
This feature provides shin and knee protection to the driver in the event of an accident.

The base Caravan has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, air conditioning, dual-sliding side doors, AM/FM stereo with CD, rear wiper/washer and full wheel covers. The SXT adds a 3.3-liter V6, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, rear defroster, power heated mirrors, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, AM/FM/CD with cassette and six speakers and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Options include power adjustable pedals, side-curtain airbags, power windows, power door locks, keyless entry (base models), rear-seat DVD entertainment system and seven-passenger seating.

Unless you think a 1972 Pinto was really fast, we doubt you’ll be happy with the 2.4-liter engine. Minivans hauling families need a V6, so spring for the SXT and avoid a serious case of buyer’s remorse.

2.4-liter in-line 4
150 horsepower @ 5100 rpm
165 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/26

3.3-liter V6
170 horsepower @ 5000 rpm
200 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26