While the Caravan showed up on sales lots in 1984, it was not until three years later in 1987 that the Dodge Grand Caravan was introduced to the American public. The Grand Caravan was larger, provided three-row seating for seven, and featured AWD; making it the first ever minivan to hit the streets with AWD. Also, Dodge came up with the innovative idea to have sliding rear doors on both sides of the minivan, a welcome feature for mothers hauling around kids to soccer, ballet, and making trips to the market. This way, no matter which side a passenger is sitting on, he can slide open the door closest to him - no more climbing over his sister's tutu and all of his soccer equipment.

The Grand Caravan has been known for its excellent fuel economy (for a minivan), superior safety features, and incredible roominess. However, over the years the Grand Caravan has also been known to require more upkeep than others in its class. The repairs have ranged from engine trouble and brake problems to recalls on airbags and tires. Nevertheless, this has not stopped buyers from picking their favorite off the sales floor. Most buyers say that they feel more comfortable purchasing a minivan that gets excellent gas mileage, but also doesn't break the bank. The Grand Caravan's affordability has been a selling point from its inception in 1987.

Interestingly, the 1991 version of the Grand Caravan had changes that customers themselves had suggested. The public felt acknowledged when Dodge revealed the newest edition of the minivan. A more expansive wheelbase and superior suspension were installed. However, anti-lock brakes became optional, not standard. While Dodge's sister company Chrysler began manufacturing a more luxurious translation of the minivan (Town & Country), Dodge charged on with its no frills design of the Grand Caravan.

Not to worry, in Dodge's third generation of its minivan beginning in 1996, they pulled out all the stops. A complete redesign of the exterior provided a more sleek and streamlined appearance. The body was shorter than its predecessor. Bigger handles were installed on the doors, and a much improved DOHC 2.4L 16-valve engine was swapped for the older version. The interior was revamped and became more passenger friendly, with additional cup holders, a movable third row seat, and a modern interior design concept to replace the outdated interior wood paneling.

Over the next ten years, the Grand Caravan has stayed a staple in Dodge's lineup. It has proven year after year that excellent fuel economy and an affordable MSRP are what buyers seek out. The minivan has received much technological advancement to keep it in line with other models on the market. It also has shown that Dodge knows its customers, being that they actually implement many of the customer-requested features. The Dodge Grand Caravan, as long as it stays on its well-worn path, will continue to grace highways and byways.