Is a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan all-wheel drive?
No. The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is not equipped with all-wheel drive; it is a front-wheel-drive minivan with no factory AWD option for that model year. This matches Dodge’s lineup at the time, which focused AWD availability on other models such as the Pacifica in later years.
Drivetrain and powertrain details for the 2017 Grand Caravan
To understand why the Grand Caravan isn’t AWD, here are the core drivetrain specifications shoppers should know.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) across all trims
- All-wheel drive availability: None; no factory AWD option for 2017 Grand Caravan
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission
- Engine: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 producing about 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque
- Fuel economy (approximately): EPA estimates around 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway for FWD configurations
In short, the 2017 Grand Caravan was designed as an affordable, FWD-only minivan, with its powertrain tuned for city and highway cruising rather than all-wheel traction.
Alternatives for AWD minivans from that era
If all-wheel drive is a priority, buyers in the 2017 period had other options with available AWD. Here are the main alternatives to consider from around the same time.
- Toyota Sienna — offered AWD on multiple trims, providing traction in slippery conditions
- Chrysler Pacifica — available with AWD on several trims, expanding capability beyond the Grand Caravan
These alternatives highlight the market shift toward AWD minivan options, especially for buyers in regions with inclement weather or rough road conditions.
What to consider when shopping for an AWD minivan
For buyers who require all-wheel drive, it’s important to weigh the trade-offs. AWD adds weight, can impact fuel economy, and may require higher maintenance costs. If you’re targeting a 2017-era vehicle, the Toyota Sienna or Chrysler Pacifica would be the more suitable options to explore for genuine AWD capability.
Summary
The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is not an all-wheel-drive vehicle. It remains a front-wheel-drive minivan with a V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, and there was no factory AWD option for that model year. If AWD is essential, consider alternatives such as the Toyota Sienna or Chrysler Pacifica from the same era, which offered factory AWD configurations.
Is the Dodge Grand Caravan AWD?
Yes, the Dodge Caravan has been available with all-wheel drive (AWD) on select models from its history, but it was discontinued in 2005 due to the introduction of the Stow 'n Go seating, which took up the space needed for the AWD system. While modern Grand Caravans are front-wheel drive, used models from before 2005 can be found with an AWD option.
- History: The first AWD option was offered in 1991, and it was available on some models until 2004.
- Discontinuation: The AWD system was removed from the lineup in 2005 to make way for the Stow 'n Go second-row seats.
- Modern models: Since 2005, all Grand Caravans have been front-wheel drive, but some newer models in the Dodge lineup, like the Durango, do offer an available AWD system.
Is the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan all wheel drive?
All 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan models come with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 260 pound-feet of torque and 283 horsepower. This engine is paired with front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Is a Grand Caravan front-wheel drive?
Since its introduction in 1983 the Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan run on a front wheel drive platform.
Is a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan front or rear wheel drive?
Overview
| Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
|---|---|
| Drive Type | front wheel drive |
| Total Seating | 7 |
| Cargo Capacity | 31.1 cu.ft. |
| Curb Weight | 4,510 lbs. |
