The all-new 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is still the leader of the pack for minivans worldwide. With seating for seven and the highest safety ratings from the NHTSA, the 2009 Grand Caravan comes stock with several new, and nice, features sure to please every family. MSRPs range from $21,975 up to $27,825 package dependent and fuel ratings superior to the Honda Odyssey are impressive at 17/24 mpg. Backed up by the Dodge Basic Warranty of 36,000 miles or 36 months, dependable performance is to be expected as well.

There is a newly-designed 3.8L 250hp V6 engine option that is coupled with a minivan specific 6-speed transaxle. The stock power train is a 3.3L 175hp V6/4-speed auto combination. The wheelbase and the width have been extended slightly for 2009 as well. The ride granted is smooth, powerful and quite responsive, especially for a minivan. The vehicle's height has not changed from the previous year's model, but there is more headroom nonetheless. Improved aerodynamic schemes and a quieted cabin are also included.

Electronic Stability Control is now a standard feature on all 2009 Grand Caravans. That's just another feature included to represent the fact that these vans are made for people transport. Dodge wants you and yours to feel safe - and comfortable. Full-length curtain airbags and 4-wheel ABS with brake assist are also standard features. Tempting optional features like swiveling second row chairs, pop-up tables, seat-back screened video systems, laptop plugs and power side doors/lift-gates make the Grand Caravan great for both road trips and tailgating.

The front and rear fascias have been redesigned as well as the tail lights. A less-sloped hood line is accentuated by a chrome cross-hair grille giving the van a truck-like appearance from the front. The thinner pillars combined with tinted glass panels are difficult to even notice from the exterior. Standard wheels are 16-inch and a bit plain, but the optional 5-spoke 17-inchers are a definite step up. The Interior has been redesigned to incorporate more versatility and convenience for all passengers. Package-dependent, of course, the 2009 Grand Caravan can make you feel quite luxurious and pampered.

One complaint from canine-loving owners is that the fabric seating seems to grab up dog hair, even though it is easy to clean. In the case of frequent hound hauling, you may wish to opt for leather seating. DVD screens that drop down from the ceiling delight children and adults alike and seem to perform flawlessly. The interior is also equipped with a convex conversation mirror - great for yelling at a pack of kids while in motion without having to spin around. Overall, the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan offers everything that purchasers wish for in a minivan: safety, space, dependability, fuel efficiency, stylistic advancements and a responsive power train.