Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles is an unrepentant gearhead. So anything he touches has to have a performance component to it. Even minivans. That’s right, the poster child for soccer moms everywhere, the minivan, has received an injection of testosterone.
The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T is the latest in the division’s performance-oriented Road and Track packages and boasts an all-new V-6 with best-in-class horsepower. Known internally as the “Man Van,” the new R/T model features styling and mechanical enhancements that make this a people-mover with attitude.
Beneath the hood, a transversely-mounted 3.6-liter powerplant produces 283 bhp, an increase of 86 bhp over the previous 3.8-liter pushrod V-6. The new overhead cam engine also makes 260 lb.-ft. of torque, a gain of 30 lb.-ft. And yet its smaller displacement allows the new engine to deliver about the same fuel economy as the unit it replaces.
Helping to capitalize on the new engine’s efficiency is a new driver-selectable fuel-economy mode. With the flip of a switch, the drivetrain management system changes the shift points on the 5-speed automatic transaxle to maximize mileage. The R/T models also are equipped with low rolling resistance tires, revised aerodynamics (including a new spoiler), low drag brake calipers and a lower ride height to boost mpg.
Man Van Meets Man Cave
The interior of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T is done up in a macho-looking black (the only color available) perforated leather with red stitching. Also getting the leather treatment are the sport steering wheel and shift lever.
The sound system is worthy of any den—it’s a 506-watt system with nine speakers and a subwoofer.
This Grand Caravan carries the usual complement of family-friendly features, including a passenger area entertainment system, flexible seating, cool storage options and available on-board navigation.
In addition to the upgraded interior, the R/T exterior features a body-colored grille and side moldings, plus 17-in. wheels. The suspension has been tuned to help put the extra power down, reduce body roll and improve the overall handling of the vehicle.
The R/T is available in eight colors and is priced at $30,595. Deliveries are expected to begin this spring.