Dodge Grand Caravan is More Fun Than You Think

Sure, go ahead, say it: nobody but the terminally unhip drives a minivan.

Well, who are we to judge?

Some folks need the roominess and the practicality that only comes in a boxy package with sliding doors.

But you can't argue that minivans, especially the classic Dodge Grand Caravan, don't offer some comfort and safety.

You can actually have a little fun in them, too, if you pack your family and friends for a nice road trip.

The 2010 Grand Caravan is virtually the same as the past couple of model years, but that's a good thing.

With cool features such as Stow 'n Go second-row seats, or the optional Swivel 'n Go second row seats that can turn to face the rear, as well as Sirius satellite TV, why mess with success?

The Grand Caravan comes in SE and SXT trim levels.

There are plenty of safety features, as you might expect, such as side curtain airbags for all three seating rows, rear sensor that alerts the driver when something is behind the vehicle and antilock brakes.

Those are all standard.

Options include a blind-spot detecting system and backup camera.

You'll find the engine choices to be powerful enough yet not too bad when it comes to fuel economy.

The 3.3-liter V-6 is rated at 175 horsepower and the 3.8-liter V-6 makes 197 ponies, while the 4.0-liter churns out 251.

That largest engine is rated at 16 mpg city, 23 highway, and the other two range around 17 and 25.

Transmissions offered are four- or six-speed automatics.

For convenience, check out the power sliding doors and, if you get the swiveling middle seats, the table that can be used for eating or playing games or reading or working.

Makes you feel like you're in a little camper.
If you opt for the UConnect system, you can get Web access, connect mobile phones and laptops and download music, among other functions.

Also, you can store photos and music, which you can play on the vehicle's stereo.

The Grand Caravan is priced in the range of about $22,000-$28,000.
So, knock the minivan if you want.

But the Grand Caravan's driver and passengers might be having much more fun than you think.