2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

Slated to bow this fall, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is the most potent variant of the division’s iconic 4-door muscle car to date. In unveiling the new model at the Chicago Auto Show, Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles promised a car that “adds a much larger power band across the rpm range, along with intelligent performance attributes and safety and creature comforts for customers who are passionate about performance driving.”

The heart of the SRT8 package is a new 6.4-liter Hemi V-8, which is a bump up in displacement from the previous model’s 6.1 liters. The engine is rated at 465 bhp and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, the latter figure representing an 80 lb.-ft. gain over the 6.1-liter powerplant.

Even though the new Hemi V-8 has greater output, attention was paid to delivering the best fuel economy possible by incorporating a fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode, which was not previously available on SRT products.

Also for the first time, the 5-speed automatic transmission adds a standard paddle-shift feature to complement the sequential mode of the console-mounted shifter. Other upgrades include a new adaptive damping suspension that monitors driver inputs, vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral acceleration to tune the suspension to match road conditions and driving styles. Drivers can also select between an auto or sport mode on the adaptive suspension.

Steering feel is also improved with the new heavy-duty pump for the hydraulic assist, and revised gearing gives better on-center response.

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is fitted with new five-element split-spoke alloy wheels shod with a range of all-season or more aggressive three-season tires.

SRT8 Boasts a Unique Appearance

As with the previous model, there’s no mistaking an SRT8 from its standard Charger siblings. The package includes specific front and rear fascias with a new rear spoiler. The grille (and grille surround) is finished in high-gloss black, and the SRT badge is prominently displayed in the signature cross-hair grille. The hood is unique and features a 6.4L badge a black-out air vent for added engine cooling. On the sides, body-colored rocker extensions give the car a lower, more muscular appearance. At the rear, new round 4-in. dual exhaust tips and an SRT8 decklid badge also differentiate the vehicle from stock models.

The interior has also been reworked to reflect the performance-oriented mission of the SRT8. The new leather-wrapped steering wheel has a racing inspired flat-bottom surface fitted with the SRT logo. Besides the new paddle shifters flanking the steering wheel, the cabin has aluminum accents with a high-tech carbon-weave look. The front seats have perforated suede inserts and more aggressive bolstering, plus standard heating and cooling. The SRT8 also features heated rear seats as part of the package.

Also new for 2012 is a 900-watt 19-speaker surround-sound system from Harman Kardon. The entertainment, climate controls and navigation can be set using a new 8.4-inch touch-screen mounted in the center of the dash.

The new product onslaught continues for the Dodge brand with the announcement at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show that the Dodge Charger SRT8 will return for the 2012 model year.

"We're continuing the fast-paced rebuilding of Dodge as our performance brand, and the expansion of our SRT product lineup in 2012 is an important part of our rejuvenation," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand — Chrysler Group LLCs. "The new 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 builds on the iconic four-door fastback coupe design of the all-new Charger and adds a much larger power band across the rpm range, along with intelligent performance attributes and safety and creature comforts for customers who are passionate about performance driving."

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 will be built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada and will be in dealer showrooms in late 2011.

"AWE-INSPIRING" POWERTRAIN

Under the hood, the new 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 delivers more horsepower and torque than the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces. It also will offer improved fuel economy.

Estimated power ratings for the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 are 465 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, including an estimated additional 80 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,900 rpm. Specific horsepower, torque and fuel economy numbers will be announced closer to the vehicle introduction.

Building upon the standard Fuel Saver technology (four-cylinder mode) found in the new 6.4 HEMI V-8, a new for 2012 adaptive valve exhaust system allows the technology to engage over a wider rpm range, which delivers improved fuel efficiency or the use of all eight cylinders when the power is needed.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8

The all-new Charger will once again receive a slight makeover later this fall, although this time it'll get musclecar mascara from Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team. Not only is the new 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 more powerful than the last go-fast rendition, but according to preliminary test data, it's more efficient, too.

The new SRT8 Charger's improved efficiency is achieved in part by the addition of Chrysler's adaptive valve exhaust system and Fuel Saver technology. The latter switches the all-new 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 into a four-cylinder mode that's activated over a wider rpm range, thus minimizing consumption. By exactly how much has yet to be announced, but for a reference point, the last Challenger SRT8 powered by the 6.1-liter V-8 was rated 13/19 mpg city/highway. An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft on the 2012 Charger SRT8 optimize low-end grunt for even more speed when you want it.

Each of the SRT8's 465 horses and 465 pound-feet of torque are routed to sticky 20-inch rear rubber through the brand's well worn W5A580 AutoStick five-speed automatic. Yes, we know, it's no pistol-grip six-speed manual (say, from the Challenger SRT8 392), or even a six-speed slushbox, but SRT has included a first-ever paddle shifting function to make the aging tranny more entertaining.

Even with the questionable gearbox in place, Chrysler reckons the SRT8 can sprint to 60 mph from a standstill in the high-4 second range, achieve 0.88 g on the skidpad, and top out at an estimated 175 mph. Quarter-mile times should be in the high-12 second range, Chrysler says.

Good thing there are four-piston Brembos to clamp down hard on 14.2-inch front/13.8-inch rear slotted rotors. The massive binders utilize Chrysler's Ready Alert Braking system that positions pads closer to the rotors when a collision is anticipated by onboard telemetry. Each corner also gets redesigned 20-inch forged aluminum wheels that sport black accents to emphasize their mirror-like faces.

An SRT first, the adaptive damping suspension adjusts stiffness levels based on driver inputs and road conditions. When left in Auto mode, the suspension's ECU calibrates all four corners to a softer level; toggle to Sport for a tauter road feel. Engineers installed a beefier power steering system for direct, yet livable communication.

The sedan's Coke-bottle lines are slightly modified with the addition of a full SRT body kit. Meaner looking front and rear fascias, sculpted sills, and a rear trunk mounted spoiler differentiate the model from lesser variants. A gloss black cross grille sits prominently on the nose, while polished four-inch exhaust tips indicate this Charger isn't to be messed with.

SRT designers also had a hand in transforming the passenger environment into one fit for a sport-oriented driver. Uniquely bolstered, stitched, and branded SRT adjustable front bucket seats are vented and heated. To assure that rear passengers aren't jealous, the backseat bench is heated too. Carbon fiber-themed trim pieces replace some of the regular Charger's plastic bits. A 900-watt 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with Uconnect and an 8.4-inch touch screen duly entertains riders when they're not enjoying the sedan in corners. Like the Challenger SRT8 392, the giant central display can be configured to show Performance Pages, essentially all the juicy stats gearheads love to see and measure (like 0-60 mph, average g forces, and quarter-mile times).

Expect the Charger SRT8 to arrive replete with premium bells and whistles as the car will top the lineup. Notable features include keyless Enter-N-Go, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. Complete specifications and details (including fuel economy and power stats) will arrive in the coming weeks, but we think it's safe to say that the 2012 Charger has been thoroughly recharged.

[Source: motortrend.com]

D'oh! Ferrari 458 Italia Driver Starts Drag Race with Dodge Viper in…Reverse!

Before you watch the following video, take a minute to ponder this: You are sitting behind the steering wheel of an exotic, brand new Italian supercar, getting ready to drag race a V10-powered Dodge Viper on the quarter mile strip in front of a crowd of 100, or perhaps even more people. But when the race begins you start rolling backwards…
Oh yes, that’s right; the owner of the Ferrari 458 Italia that you’re about to see in the clip and who was pitted against a Dodge Viper at the ICAR motorsports complex situated just outside of Montreal in Canada, paddle shifted his car’s dual clutch auto transmission into reverse!

Chrysler Announces Prices on New 2012 SRT8 Models Including the 300, Charger, Grand Cherokee and Challenger

The Chrysler Group’s newly formed Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand has released pricing on its latest crop of models, which include the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8, the 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 and the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.
Prices together with an $825 destination fee start at $47,995 for the Chrysler 300 SRT8, $46,660 for the Dodge Charger SRT8, $44,077 for the Challenger SRT8 and $55,295 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.
All four SRT8 models are powered by the Chrysler Group’s new 6.4-liter HEMI V8 with Fuel Saver Technology that cranks out 470 horsepower (351kW) and 470 lb-ft (637Nm) of peak torque (465 lb.-ft. / 630 Nm in the Grand Cherokee SRT8).

Dodge Dakota

The Dodge Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck from Chrysler's Ram division. From its introduction through 2009, it was marketed by Dodge. The first Dakota was introduced in 1986 as a 1987 model alongside the redesigned Dodge Ram 50. The Dakota was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2000. The Dakota has always been sized above the compact Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10 but below the full-sized pickups such as Dodge's own Ram. It is a conventional design with body-on-frame construction and a leaf spring/live axle rear end. The Dakota was the first small pickup with an optional V8 engine. One notable feature was the Dakota's rack and pinion steering, a first in work trucks. On November 4, 2009, Fiat announced that the slow selling truck would be discontinued in 2011. Dakotas have been used by police and fire departments, as off-road vehicles, patrol cars, or even brush trucks. The Dodge Dakota was conceived by Chrysler management as the first "mid-sized" pickup combining the nimble handling and fuel economy of a compact pickup with cargo handling capacity approaching that of full-sized pickups. To keep investment low, many components were shared with existing Chrysler products and the manufacturing plant was shared with the full-sized Dodge D-Model. The name Dakota means "friend" or "ally" in the Sioux Indian language.The first generation of the Dakota was produced from 1987 through 1996. Straight-4 and V6 engines were offered along with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Four wheel drive was available only with the V6. Both 2 m and 2.4 m beds were offered. Fuel injection was added to the 3.9 L V6 for 1988 but the output remained the same.

Strong Dodge Dakota

New 2011 Dodge Dakota Doors Concept

The second-generation Dakota was built from 1997 through 2004. It inherited the semi truck look of the larger Ram but remained largely the same underneath. 1998 saw the introduction of the R/T model with the big 5.9 L 250 hp (186 kW) Magnum V8. At the time of its introduction, it was seen as one of the most radical in its class, not only for its styling, but for the fact it remained the only truck in its class with an available V8 engine that rivalled many V8s found in full size trucks with payloads of up to 1500 pounds. Four-door "Quad-Cab" models were added for 2000 with a slightly shorter bed, 63.1 in (160.2 cm), but riding on the Club Cab's 130.9 in (332.5 cm) wheelbase. The aging 5.2 L Magnum V8 was replaced by a new high-tech 4.7 L SOHC PowerTech V8. The Quad-Cab featured a full-size flip up rear seat to provide room for 3 passengers in the back or lots of dry, interior room for cargo. In spring 1998, a new limited edition R/T package was available as an option on the Dakota Sport model. This version is considered a true street/sport truck, only available in RWD. Factory modifications such as a 250 hp 360 cid/5.9 liter V8, heavy duty 46RE 4 speed automatic transmission, performance axle, limited slip differential, sport suspension and steering, uprated brakes, performance exhaust, special cast aluminum wheels, monotone paint, bucket seats, and many other standard options came with the package. Chrome wheels were available on 2002 models. Some of the last models made in 2003 came with the new stampede lower body cladding package and chromed version of the original cast aluminum wheels at no extra charge. This version of the R/T Dakota was produced through 2003, with the newer 2003 R/T trucks designated as their own trimline and no longer as part of an option package on the Dakota Sport trim.

Exotic Dodge Dakota

Dodge Dakota Dashboard View

The redesigned 2005 Dakota still shared its platform with the new Dodge Durango SUV (which is now similar to the Ram platform). This model is 3.7 in (94 mm) longer and 2.7 in (69 mm) wider, and features a new front and rear suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering. This new generation model also reverted the wheels back to five lug wheels from the prior generation's six lug wheels due to cost and assembly time saving measures. The Dakota is built at the Warren Truck Assembly plant in Warren, Michigan. There were a V6 and two V8 engines available: The standard engine is a 3.7 L PowerTech V6; the two 4.7 L V8 engines are the standard PowerTech V8 and the V8 High Output or HO. The 3.7 L V6 produces 210 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb·ft (319 N·m) of torque. The standard output 4.7 L V8 produces 230 hp (170 kW) and 295 lb·ft (400 N·m) of torque. The High Output 4.7 L V8 produces 260 horsepower (190 kW) and 310 lb·ft (420 N·m) of torque. Both the 3.7 L and standard output 4.7 L V8s were available with the 6 speed manual transmission in 2005 and 2006. For 2007, that option was deleted on the V8 models. The facelifted third generation Dakota was unveiled at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. The Dakota received another facelift and interior upgrade along with a few other upgrades including built-in cargo-box utility rails, heated bench seats, best-in-class towing (up to 7,050 pounds), the largest and longest standard bed in the class, and the largest mid-size truck cab. Its new 4.7 liter V8 produces 302 hp (225 kW) and 329 lb·ft (446 N·m) of torque. The standard engine remains the 3.7 liter V6 with 210 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb·ft (319 N·m). of torque. Production began in August 2007. On November 4, 2009, Fiat announced that the Dakota will be discontinued in 2011. A new unibody truck called the Ram Rampage is expected to take the place of the Dakota in 2012.

205 mph 1969 Dodge Coronet, Bonneville racer

Read all about it, and see the rest of the photos at http://www.californiaclassix.com/archive/426.html

Dodge Rampage

The Dodge Rampage was a subcompact, unibody coupe utility based on Chrysler's L platform and manufactured from 1982-1984. First released as a 1982 model, the Rampage was later joined by its rebadged variant, the Plymouth Scamp. The Rampage borrows the car's unibody construction and the front fascia from the sporty 024/Charger variant. It was available with a Chrysler built and designed 2.2 L carbureted straight-4 engine with 96 hp (72 kW) and a curb weight of around 2,400 lb (1,100 kg). In the first year, it had leisurely performance due to the 4-speed manual transmission along with a 3-speed automatic transmission. Performance was improved with the introduction of a 5-speed manual transmission in 1983. The truck had a load capacity of 1,145 lb (519 kg), for a true "half ton" rating. This compared favorably to General Motors' Chevrolet El Camino. The Volkswagen Rabbit Sportruck and Subaru Brat were the Rampage's only real competition. The Dodge Rampage was based on the popular Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon. Their high gasoline mileage and modest price were good for the time, but the engine was a cause of the vehicle's failure — it could not deliver the performance of the El Camino, but when one compared it to the Volkswagen Rabbit Sportruck, the Rampage seemed to have the upper hand. The Rampage's front-wheel drive configuration also added to its deficiencies, as a front-wheel drive layout is not usually used for trucks. The quality, fit and finish, and overall feel of the truck were also well below the Japanese offerings of the day, contributing to its short life-span. The Plymouth Scamp was only sold in 1983. The Rampage lasted three years, though, and was removed from production after the 1984 model year.

In 1983, a select number of Dodge dealerships in Canada offered a special edition Rampage, which was only available for one year. The trucks were part of a short run at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Ontario and were fitted with numerous appearance upgrades from Chrysler's Direct Connection parts catalog. A special plate was mounted next to the standard build plate of each truck that read "Special Order - Direct Connection". Available in only three colors ("Graphic Red", "Snow White" and black), the Canadian DC Rampages were loaded with Direct Connection goodies, which included a front spoiler (Shelby-style), special extended-length side sirts, fiberglass tonneau cover (with integrated spoiler), orange and red stripe package with DC logos, roof wing, cast aluminum valve cover and a chrome air cleaner box. Some of the Canadian DC Rampages made their way to the U.S. where they were used for publicity purposes. A "Graphic Red" example was given away in a national contest while a "Snow White" version was photographed for the 1984 Direct Connection catalog alongside Carroll Shelby.Dodge resurrected the Rampage name at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. This new concept car is again a front wheel drive pickup, but is as large as the full-size Dodge Ram. It is powered by the 5.7 L Hemi V8.

Dodge Rampage In The Parking Area

Dodge Rampage Sliding Doors Concept

Attractive Dodge Rampage In Black

Dodge Rampage Interior View

Dodge Rampage Engine Detail

Dodge Rampage Show Up

Automobile Club of Southern California (AAA) number 1 Highway Patrol Service (why don't they do this anymore?)

This old Dodge Brothers truck was a patrol, the electric car below? I bet strictly publicity event use. What possible emergancy roadside service could it possibly be that your smart cell phone can't do better?

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

The Charger redline bring 2011 version of the popular vehicle lower to the ground with a suspension that lowers the car an inch. Chrysler Group LLC's Mopar Division will launch a limited-edition Dodge Charger outfitted with select high-performance parts and appearance items straight from the Mopar parts catalog, to built on the success of 2010 Dodge Challenger Mopar.

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

A sports car from Chrysler is back, this time present in the arena of the 2011 New York Auto Show is the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar. With power and good performance, 2011 Mopar Dodge Charger ’11 to give you a different sensation when the highways since 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar has the look of the mysterious and ferocious.

"The 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar '11 Charger takes the 'head- turning' factor up a few notches," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group's service, parts and customer-care brand. "By adding some of the most distinctive accessories to an already strong performer, we've created a special-edition car for enthusiasts."

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

Like the Dodge Charger R/T, the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar also uses a machine with a capacity large enough so that the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 uses powered  5.7-liter HEMI®  V8 capable of producing power at 370 hp with 395 lb-ft of torque, the specially equipped Charger includes the "Super Trac Pac" option that pushes the capabilities of the Dodge Charger Mopar in acceleration, handling and braking. Already powerful, the 5.7-liter has been tuned to extract the maximum amount of torque from the engine with the inclusion of a specially calibrated engine controller. The controller matches maximum engine power and transmission shifting to the differential for the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar. While the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 transmission used is 5-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick feature, so with the Auto Stick feature, the driver can select a higher gear or lower and the transmission controller which can help prevent the possibility of over-rev condition in 2011 Dodge Mopar Charger.

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

While the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 has a fairly rapid acceleration of being able to travel 0-60 mph less than 5 seconds. 2011 Dodge Mopar Charger ’11 has a three stage stability control, standard tune and sporty suspension that can give you comfort when using the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 on the road. Enhancements to the chassis include adding larger front 30mm solid stabilizer bar and rear 20mm solid stabilizer bar, increases from 27mm and 16mm (respectively). Adding to the overall stability and handling of the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar are cross-car braces located at both the front and rear shock towers. For increased luggage space, the rear tower-to-tower brace may be easily removed.

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

Specific-design, 20-inch x 8-inch Envy wheels are fitted with Goodyear F1 Supercar 245/45ZR20 tires at all four corners. Wheels are a five-spoke design with a 45mm offset, include specific Mopar center caps and are finished in a high-gloss black complementing the overall "Pitch Black" exterior finish of the 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar.

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

The interior boasts Katzkin leather seats, metallic trim and a strange shifter. There are also alloy pedals, 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar floor mats and an individually-numbered plaque. The suspension is also revised. It features bigger stabilizer bars (30 mm at the front and 20mm at the rear) and strut tower braces Mopar also installed a high performance braking system with enormous calipers and discs behind the 20” wheels. Excellent stopping power is provided through vented rotors measuring 345mm x 28mm up front that are fitted with dual-piston, sliding calipers. At the rear, vented rotors measuring 320mm x 22mm, coupled with single-piston calipers are used.

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar is available in a choice of colors Pitch Black, interior Mopar Dodge Charger ’11 is also the same as the color of the exterior so that the 2011 Dodge Charger Mopar ’11 is really very mysterious and very suitable for those who like to be a hidden strength. A pair of blue lines also give the impression of a different race. The blue line in 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar is from front to back, not only exterior but the interior 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 also has a blue line.

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 will be built in Brampton, Ontario and settled in central upfit in Windsor, Ontario. 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 will be produced as many as 1000 units, 900 units will be provided to the United States, while 100 units for Canada. 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar’11 will be sold with prices starting at $ 39,750 and for ordering will be available starting on 18 April while the Dodge Mopar Charger ’11 shipments will begin in late summer.

2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar

Customers who purchase a 2011 Dodge Sport Cars Charger Mopar will receive a personalized owner kit in a customized Mopar '11 box. The kit will include a certificate with the vehicle identification number (VIN), exact date of manufacture and the number of the vehicle. The kit will also include a brochure that highlights the unique features of the vehicle, exclusive Mopar '11 merchandise.

Dodge Grand Caravan

The Dodge Caravan is a family minivan manufactured by Chrysler Group LLC and sold under its Dodge brand. Along with its nameplate variant, the Plymouth Voyager, the Caravan was introduced for the 1984 model year. In 1987, the Dodge Grand Caravan long-wheelbase (LWB) model was introduced and sold alongside the short-wheelbase (SWB) Caravan. The SWB model was discontinued after the 2007 model year; and, since the 2008 model year, the van has been sold only under the Grand Caravan nameplate. Other nameplate variants of the Caravan include the Chrysler Voyager (1988–present), the upmarket Chrysler Town & Country (1990–present), and the Volkswagen Routan (2008–present). Chrysler manufactures and markets its minivan series worldwide. Together with its nameplate variants, the Chrysler minivans have ranked as the 13th best-selling automotive nameplate worldwide. Chrysler introduced the Dodge and Plymouth minivans in November 1983 for the 1984 model year, using an extended derivative of the Chrysler K platform, the Chrysler S platform. Chrysler followed with a long wheelbase (LWB) model, the Grand Caravan in 1987, also based on the Chrysler S platform. Lee Iaccoca and Hal Sperlich had conceived their idea for a modern minivan during their earlier tenure at Ford Motor Company. Henry Ford II had rejected Iaccoca's and Sperlich's idea (and a prototype) of a minivan in 1974, then rumored to carry the name "Maxivan". Iaccoca followed Sperlich to Chrysler Corporation, and together they created the T115 minivan — a prototype that was to become the Caravan and Voyager, known colloquially as the "Magic-wagons" (a term used in advertising). The Chrysler minivans launched a few months ahead of the Renault Espace (the first MPV/minivan in Europe, initially presented to executives as a Talbot in 1979, but not launched until 1984), making them the first of their kind — effectively creating the modern minivan segment in the US. The original Matra design for the Renault Espace was created when Matra was owned by Chrysler Corporation, so Chrysler may also be credited with originating the minivan concept in Europe as well. Since their introduction in the fall of 1983, the Chrysler minivans have outsold other minivans in the United States, with over 13 million Chrysler, Dodge and Plymouth minivans in over 80 countries sold as of October 2008. Only recently, has Chrysler ceded the top-selling minivan spot to the Honda Odyssey, if Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country sales are considered separately.

Dodge Grand Caravan Interior

Dodge Grand Caravan Engine Detail

Generation I Caravans used the Chrysler S platform, which was closely related to the K-cars, Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant. There were three trim levels on the Generation I Caravan: base, mainstream SE, and upscale LE. The Caravan was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1985. All trim levels were also available in a slightly longer body, called the Grand Caravan, which allowed significantly more cargo space behind the rear seat. Most of the interior trim, controls, and instrumentation were borrowed from the K-car, leading to a very "car-like" interior look and feel. Coupled with the lower floor that the front wheel drive design allowed, this helped to make the Caravan seem more like a large station wagon than a van, enticing many buyers who would not have otherwise been comfortable driving a van.From 1991 through 1995, the Caravan used the Chrysler AS platform; they were the last minivans derived from the Chrysler K platform.With Generation III, the Chrysler minivans long – and short – wheelbase models, three – and four-door configurations, and eight different powertrains – including electric and compressed natural gas, on a single, flexible platform.The redesigned Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town&Country were released in August 2000. The release was part of a promotional tie-in with Nabisco, which unveiled their new "Mini Oreos" inside the van during the unveiling. The first vans rolled off the line at the Windsor Assembly Plant on July 24. Beginning with Generation V in model year 2008, Chrysler only made the long wheelbase Grand Caravan. This van debuted at the 2007 North American International Auto Show and had exterior styling by Ralph Gilles. A new six-speed automatic transmission became standard with the 3.8 L V6 and the new 4.0 L V6. The four-speed automatic transmission is standard with the 3.3 L Flex-Fuel V6.

Dodge Grand Caravan Luxury Interior

Dodge Grand Caravan Large Baggage

Major changes were made for the 2011 model year, both in styling and functionality. The suspension was heavily re-tuned, with both Dodge and Chrysler minivans gaining a larger front sway bar and new rear sway bar, increased rear roll center height, adjusted spring rates, a new steering gear, a revised front static camber setting, and lowered ride height. All three of the former engine choices were replaced by the new Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 with six-speed automatic transmission, now the sole powertrain choice for all models. Interior trim was restyled on both vans, in addition to major exterior revisions highlighted by the new "double-crosshair" grille on the Grand Caravan and a new chrome grille for the Town & Country. Other changes included extra sound insulation, acoustic glass, new seats, softer-touch surfaces, new LED ambient lighting and center console,and halogen projector headlamps with LED accents. The Chrysler models were adjusted so that instead of competing against equivalent Dodge trim levels, they were above Dodge in trim and features. In the US National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA)'s NCAP crash testing the 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan achieved a five star (top safety) rating in several categories. Both the 3.8 L and 4.0 L engines were paired with Chrysler's 62TE 6 speed automatic transmission with variable line pressure (VLP) technology (See Ultradrive#62TE). In Canada (2008–2010) the 3.3 L was the standard engine across the range, combined with the 4-speed 41TE automatic transmission. The 4.0 L engine and six speed combination was available as an option on only the top of the range SXT models. In 2011 the six speed transmission was specified as standard on the Town & Country.