The Originator is Back with an All-new Attitude — The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan: New Heart, New Moves, New Soul

June 22, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. -  Dodge continues its new product onslaught with the new 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan, a minivan with the driving dynamics of a performance sedan — and a little bit of attitude.

“At Dodge, we believe that just because a driver needs the versatility of a minivan doesn’t mean that the experience has to be boring,” said Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer -- SRT Brand, Chrysler Group LLC Senior Vice President -- Product Design, Chrysler Group LLC. “Our engineers redesigned and retuned virtually every system in the new Grand Caravan’s suspension. That suspension overhaul, combined with a new V-6 engine that delivers best-in-class horsepower, gives Grand Caravan drivers a dynamic driving experience that other minivans in the segment just don’t deliver. We encourage you to get behind the wheel, and enjoy a driving experience once never thought possible in such a functional vehicle.”

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will be available in four configurations that fit almost any lifestyle: the Express, Mainstreet, Crew, and arriving in spring 2011, the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T.

New Pentastar V-6 Engine Drives the Changes 
At the heart of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is an all-new powertrain. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transaxle. This potent combination replaces all three of the previous minivan engines. Gone are the 3.3-liter, 3.8-liter and 4.0-liter V-6 engines, all replaced with one high-tech, high-performing and highly responsive motor that hits the sweet spot between power and efficiency.

With the Pentastar engine, the new Grand Caravan delivers best-in-class horsepower (283 hp compared with 197 hp in the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine) and more torque (260 lb.-ft. versus 230 lb.-ft.) without sacrificing fuel economy.

The 2011 Grand Caravan also features a new driver-selectable fuel economizer mode. Drivers can change the transaxle shift schedule with the flip of a switch to maximize their fuel economy. In addition, a 12 mm lower ride height, new premium, lower-rolling resistance tires, a new spoiler and reduced brake caliper and rear bearing drag all contribute to Dodge Grand Caravan’s class-leading aerodynamics and excellent fuel economy.

Driver's Attitude Drives Design 
Dodge has also redesigned the 2011 Grand Caravan to match its new attitude about driving. A new front fascia that sports the new Dodge signature “split crosshair” grille, a new hood and quad headlamps all combine to give the face of the 2011 Grand Caravan a more aggressive feel. A new, more sculpted rear fascia and liftgate, new rear “ring of fire” LED taillamps and new Dodge badge complete the look from front to back.

Also new for 2011 is the latest innovation from the minivan leader: the Stow ‘n Place™ roof rack system that lets owners stow the roof bows in the side rails when they’re not using them and snap them easily into place when needed. The ability to stow the roof bows when they’re not being used means less aerodynamic drag and wind buffeting and better overall efficiency.

Owners will step inside to an all-new world-class interior for 2011. A modern, new one-piece instrument panel is more intuitive for the customer with improved ergonomics and larger, redesigned gauges. An available new “super” center console provides clever functionality and storage for the active commuter, as well as easy driver/passenger access with a pass-through storage space for larger items, like a purse. Trim rings in the console glow an ambient blue-green color, allowing passengers to find the items they are looking for at night.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan also features more comfortable, larger Stow ‘n Go® seats with a new, easy to use one-touch fold-down function. New, premium seating materials and new door trim are soft to the touch. A new Dodge brand steering wheel with integrated controls for audio, navigation and speed control also offers a minivan-first heated steering wheel option. The best storage in the segment rounds out the improved interior.

More Than 40 Safety, Security and Technology Features Keep Families Safe and Connected 
Safety and security features include standard front seat-mounted side air bags, a new driver-side knee blocker air bag, three-row side-curtain air bags, electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring and remote keyless entry. The available Safety Sphere package of features includes ParkSense® rear park assist system, ParkView® rear backup camera, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection system, rain-sensitive wipers and automatic headlamps.

Packaged to Meet a Variety of Lifestyles 
R/T is where versatility meets performance and attitude. Uniquely designed both inside and out, the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T proves a driver doesn’t have to give up a spirited driving experience or their identity when they have a family. The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T throws down the gauntlet for a whole new level of cool transportation for families on the go.

With sleek, athletic styling; smart, cutting-edge entertainment features; flexible seating and cool storage options, the reliability of a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and models that fit specific lifestyles, the new Dodge Grand Caravan moves families where they need to go in a way that makes the journey of life easier.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is available in eight paint colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, Mango Tango Pearl Coat (late availability) and Dark Charcoal Coat (late availability).

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will be built at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and will arrive in showrooms later this year.

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