What do you think of the comparisons of these 2 minivans? About 2 weeks ago I looked at both at the dealerships, and the 08 Dodge Grand Caravan with a 4.0 L engine, Stow ‘N Go, cloth seats – would cost $36,000. An 08 Honda Odyssey EX-L with a Tow Package (so it can tow 4500 lbs vs Dodge’s 3600 lbs) would cost $30,200. So I’d really prefer the Odyssey EX-L, and it’s a fast 8.3 second 0-60 minivan that can get 25 mpg hwy!

Actually, I like the looks of the 05+ Odysseys better too. When I first saw the 08 Caravan, I thought it was ugly and had a ‘95 retro look. But the more I see it the more I get used to it and it seems like it’s looking better.

Anyone else looking at the Odyssey? What are your thoughts on the new 08 Caravans?

I am a Dodge fan but my 99 Sport is somewhat a lemon with $2400 in repairs in 1.5 years + a bad recirculation switch which is an $830 repair too (might cost more).

 

IMO I would choose the Odyssey but thats based on reliabilty the 08 Caravans do have a lot of nice features like those found on the Odyssey but after owning my 01 and all the problems it had I would probably choose a different brand my sister had 3 caravans a 98, 01, 03 and all had problems with them they bought an 07 odyssey and love it, after seeing it I understand why, however Chrysler did up the ante on the 08 though, but reliabilty is what I am concerned about

 

Caravans are some of the most reliable minivans in the market. Why do you think they are the best selling year in and year out? they also now have a lifetime powertrain warranty, just in case anything does happen, your covered. I don't know where your getting those pricing numbers on the Odyssey and Grand Caravan. The Caravan is much more affordable and always has more attractive leasing/buying options.

G.Caravan > Odyssey... every year so far..

 

IMO I likes the performance and handling of the GC over the Odyssey. I know that is contrary to most editorial reviews, but it's what I felt. I can't offer input on the reliability topic as my van is still too new. However, a neighbor of ours has an Odyssey and has had several electrical type issues and repairs on her '06.

I do believe the GC is best selling van out there. In our area we see far more GCs than any other van.

Did you test drive both of them? If not, you should and drive them hard to get a feel of their characteristics.

Good luck.

 

I haven't had a chance to test drive the Odyssey, but I have test driven the Grand Caravan and I though it's performance and handling was great. I drove the 4.0 V6 and was pleasently surprised at the pick-up it had. Since I haven't driven the Honda, I don't want to speak against it's performance, but I will agree with you watchout, I was impressed with the Caravan.

 

Are you sure on the prices? We were looking at a Honda but it was $10 000 more and had far less options. The two deciding factor for us was with 2 cars seat in the middle row the grand caravan is the only one with easy access to the rear bench and middle row stow & go.

 

I got the Honda quote from Russel Smith Honda in Houston. Dodge quote from Allen Samuels in Houston. Maybe these are prices local to Houston. I just collected brochures, no test drive because I can't afford buying a $30K+ minivan. Gotta get them 4 years used.