The Caravan and long-wheelbase Grand Caravan (see separate profile) are available in base and SXT trim levels. The company's novel Stow 'n Go system isn't available on the SWB Caravan, but the second- and third-row benches have rollers to facilitate their removal; the third row is also fore-aft adjustable. The engine is an old-tech OHV piece -- a 3.3-litre, 180-hp V6. It drives the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic transmission. Despite these dated, under-achieving powertrains, the Caravan's value pricing, choice of wheelbases, and available Stow 'n Go (Grand), have kept it Canada's top-selling minivan year after year. In a bid to keep it that way, Chrysler will launch a new-generation Caravan this fall.

Affordability, familiarity

Dated powertrains, lacks rivals' safety features