The 7-passenger Grand Caravan SE standard equipment for 2009 includes Stow 'n Go seating, cruise control, vents and mats. The SXT gains more optional equipment, including a dedicated iPod interface, rain-sensing wipers, a blind-spot monitoring system and Rear Cross Path System. All Grand Caravans get improved brakes, while the SXT with the 4.0L V6 gets a sport-tuned suspension derived from the European version of the van. The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has a 3.3L V6 for 175 hp and 205 lb-ft of torque with a 4-speed automatic as standard and getting 17 mpg city/24 mpg hwy and 19 mpg combined. The SXT comes with a 3.8L V6 that produces 197 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque while a 4.0L V6 making 251 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque is optional. Both SXT engines come with a 6-speed automatic and get the same fuel economy at 16 city/23 hwy and 18 combined. All Grand Caravans are front-wheel drive and standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control and full-length side curtain airbags.
2009 model year changes
Following a redesign in 2008, the Grand Caravan returns for 2009 with few changes. Braking has been improved on both SE and SXT models. The SXT model gets a sportier suspension and an iPod adapter has been added to the optional UConnect phone system. The SE trim gets standard Stow 'n Go seating with stain-resistant seat fabric, as well as cruise control, an improved instrument cluster, three rows of power seats, and some other minor upgrades. Blind spot monitoring, Rear Cross Path sensing, and rain-sensitive wipers are now options.
Competitive comparison
Innovative Swivel 'n Go interior arrangement; interior versatility; available convenience features; available entertainment systems.
Special features for 2009
The Dodge Grand Caravan--along with the mechanically identical Chrysler Town & Country--continues to have some of the most innovative features, and the 2009 model stands out for its interior, with the Swivel 'n Go arrangement. Chrysler claims that its minivans are still the only ones to offer a seating system like its Stow 'n Go, which allows both the second- and third-row seats to fold fully into the floor. The automaker also says that their optional DVD entertainment system, which is capable playing different media at simultaneously, is a minivan first. Many of the other features now available on the Grand Caravan, including ambient lighting, heated second-row seats and sunshades, are as yet unavailable on much of the competition.
