Is a 2017 Dodge Caravan rear wheel drive?
The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is not rear-wheel drive; it uses front-wheel drive (FWD) and does not offer a rear-wheel-drive configuration. This layout is typical for modern minivans and emphasizes interior space, efficiency, and lower drivetrain complexity for 2017 models.
Drivetrain basics of the 2017 Grand Caravan
Understanding the core drivetrain setup helps explain why the Caravan isn’t RWD. Dodge paired a front-wheel-drive chassis with a V6 engine and a multi-speed automatic transmission, prioritizing passenger space and everyday practicality over traditional rear-drive performance.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard; there is no factory rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) option for the 2017 Grand Caravan.
- Engine and transmission: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (commonly the 62TE family) designed for smooth power delivery and passenger-focused usability.
- Performance and packaging: The FWD layout supports a flat cargo area and generous seating, but it does not offer RWD handling characteristics or AWD traction features that some rivals provide.
Before listing the key drivetrain facts, note that the following highlights describe the standard 2017 configuration and its typical implications for owners.
In summary, the 2017 Grand Caravan’s drivetrain is built around front-wheel drive, with power routed to the front wheels and no option for rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive on this model year.
Why Dodge chose front-wheel drive for this model year
Automakers widely adopt front-wheel drive for minivans to maximize interior space, simplify packaging, and reduce manufacturing costs. For the 2017 Grand Caravan, FWD helps maintain a low floor in the cabin, makes load leveling and seating configurations more versatile, and typically offers better fuel economy in city driving compared with rear-wheel-drive architectures.
- Interior practicality: The absence of a center driveline or heavy rear components leaves more cabin and cargo space for families.
- Maintenance and cost: FWD powertrains are generally less expensive to manufacture and service than RWD/AWD setups in a minivan context.
- Traction considerations: In snow or low-traction conditions, some buyers may prefer AWD, which the 2017 Grand Caravan does not offer; alternatives from other brands may provide AWD.
Before outlining the practical implications, here is a concise look at how FWD shapes ownership for this model.
Regardless of the drivetrain, the Grand Caravan remains a value-focused family mover, with the trade-off being that it does not provide rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive for those seeking traction-oriented variants.
Alternatives for buyers seeking AWD/RWD minivans (2017 era)
For readers who specifically require all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive in a minivan, a few rivals offered AWD options in the same general timeframe. One notable example is the Toyota Sienna, which provided all-wheel drive on select trims in 2017.
- Toyota Sienna (2017): available all-wheel drive on various trims, offering improved traction in adverse weather relative to a pure front-wheel-drive minivan.
Before listing the alternative, consider this single, representative option.
In practice, buyers who prioritize AWD often compare the Sienna or other newer models rather than the Grand Caravan, which remains FWD-only for 2017.
Summary
Bottom line: the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is not rear-wheel drive. It is built with front-wheel drive as the standard configuration, prioritizing interior space, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. If AWD or RWD is a strict requirement, consider rivals such as the Toyota Sienna, and verify the drivetrain options for any specific model year or trim you’re considering.
