“I think the design, creativity and manufacturing quality are outstanding in my new Caravan. I only need (and can afford) one vehicle so I buy the most versatile vehicle I can find. I can haul lumber, furniture, mulch, etc. everything always seems to fit. And I can haul passengers if I need to. Add great mileage and performance... it's the original ultimate vehicle. That's why I have bought seven in a row.”
Dodge Grand Caravan: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Dodge Grand Caravan is a value-focused minivan built for family hauling. It is known for roomy seating, fold-flat Stow ’n Go versatility, V6 power, and familiar controls.
The Grand Caravan’s long-running formula put passenger and cargo usefulness ahead of fresh technology. Its fold-flat seating made it easy to switch between carrying people and bulky items. After a major 2011 update, it stayed largely unchanged through its final U.S. model year in 2020, becoming a simpler, lower-cost alternative to newer minivans.
Strengths
- Stow ’n Go seating folds into the floor, making it easy to turn passenger space into cargo room.
- The roomy cabin is designed around carrying a family and its everyday gear.
- Cargo capacity was rated at 140.3 cubic feet for 2020, giving the van useful space for large loads.
- Most 2011-2020 models share the same 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, which keeps the late-model formula consistent.
- A 2020 Grand Caravan was rated to tow up to 3,600 pounds.
- Straightforward controls make the cabin easier to learn than a more technology-heavy minivan.
Who it's for
It best fits families, caregivers, and anyone who regularly carries several people but also needs flexible cargo space. It also makes sense for used-minivan shoppers who value straightforward controls and practical seating more than modern cabin technology.
Dodge Grand Caravan lineup
Trim names changed over the years, but the lineup generally moved from basic value models to versions with more comfort and convenience equipment. In later years, pick the SE for the most straightforward family-hauling setup, or the SE Plus for added convenience without moving to the upper trims. The SXT sits farther up the range, while the GT took over the top spot from the R/T in 2017. Older American Value Package models are the budget-focused entries, and Plus or anniversary editions mainly adjust features and appearance rather than the van’s basic purpose.
Dodge Grand Caravan generations
From 2009 to 2020, the Grand Caravan spans 1 generation. The current 5th Generation — RT arrived for 2008.
5th Generation — RT (2008–2020)
Redesigned for 2008, this generation uses a long-wheelbase, front-wheel-drive layout with fold-flat Stow ’n Go seating. A major 2011 update brought revised styling and cabin materials, retuned suspension, and one standard 3.6-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic.
121 In Stock
2020Trim changes
Final U.S. model year. The SE Plus gained extra standard convenience features, while the rest of the lineup largely carried over.
2019Trim changes
SE and SXT 35th Anniversary Editions joined the lineup, and the GT became fleet-only.
2018
The lineup carried over aside from a new paint color.
2017Trim changes
The lineup was simplified to four trims, and the GT replaced the R/T. A 6.5-inch touchscreen and rearview camera became standard.
2016
The six-trim lineup carried over without significant changes.
2015Trim changes
SE Plus and SXT Plus joined the lineup, and 17-inch wheels became standard across the range.
2014Trim changes
30th Anniversary Editions based on the SE and SXT joined the lineup.
2013Trim changes
Trailer sway control became standard, and the base AVP switched to a removable second-row bench.
2012Trim changes
The American Value Package joined as the new entry-level version, and the trim structure was reorganized.
2011Mid-cycle update
Dodge refreshed the exterior and cabin, retuned the suspension, and made a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic standard.
2010Trim changes
Hero and Crew trims joined the passenger lineup. Active front-seat head restraints became standard.
2009
Revised brakes reduced noise and vibration; the basic design carried over.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Dodge Grand Caravan.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dodge Grand Caravan a minivan or an SUV?
It is a minivan. The Grand Caravan uses sliding side doors, three seating rows, and a low cargo floor designed for carrying families and bulky loads rather than SUV-style driving.
How many people does a Dodge Grand Caravan seat?
Most passenger versions seat seven, while some seating layouts accommodate up to eight. Lower trims may have a removable second-row bench, while many others use two separate second-row seats.
Does the Dodge Grand Caravan come as a hybrid?
No. The Grand Caravan is a gas-powered minivan. From the major 2011 refresh through the final model year, passenger versions used a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission.
Does the Dodge Grand Caravan have all-wheel drive?
No. Fifth-generation Grand Caravans covered here use front-wheel drive. Shoppers who need all-wheel drive will need to look beyond this model.
Does every Dodge Grand Caravan have Stow ’n Go seats?
Not in the same form. The third-row seat folds into the floor on passenger versions, but the second-row layout varies. Some lower trims use a removable bench, while many other trims have separate second-row seats that fold into the floor.
Is the Dodge Grand Caravan a good family road-trip vehicle?
Yes, if space and simple controls matter more than modern technology. It has three-row seating, rear climate control, flexible cargo space, and V6 power. Higher trims add useful features such as power sliding doors and a power liftgate.
Which Dodge Grand Caravan generation should used shoppers know about?
The fifth generation runs from 2008 through 2020. The major dividing point is the 2011 refresh, which brought the 3.6-liter V6, a six-speed automatic, revised styling, improved seats, and a substantially updated cabin.
Is the Dodge Grand Caravan good for carrying cargo?
Yes. Its second- and third-row seating can create a broad, flat loading area, although the exact second-row setup depends on trim. The final lineup provides up to 140.3 cubic feet of cargo room.
Dodge Grand Caravan Reviews
What owners are saying about the Dodge Grand Caravan.
4.0
Dodge Grand Caravan
(1,653 reviews)
“Two things bug me: 1) The location of the gauges on the instrument panel causes the steering wheel to slightly obstruct the view of the outside edges of the gauges. 2) A USB power outlet or two would be nice.”
“This 2017 dodge grand caravan has been nothing but a headache since I purchased it. It had to have the whole motor replaced, the thermostat replaced and the battery cable doesn't make a good connection so it will randomly not start.”
“I love my Dodge Grand Caravan XLT as it allows me to take friends (up to 7 of us) on long outings, I can configure the vehicle to accommodate crates needed to take my cats with me and still have room for the dog, luggage, and any other needed items!”
“2019 Dodge Grand Caravan is an excellent family vehicle. Tons of room for passengers or storage. The auto doors are a huge lifesaver if you have kids, you can just close the doors with the fob once you get the kids inside.”
“van seems to shift a lot more than I am used to. Do not know if this is ok or not”