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Is a Dodge Caravan fuel efficient?

The Dodge Caravan is a popular minivan, but its fuel efficiency is a mixed bag. While it offers a spacious interior and versatile seating, the Caravan's fuel economy lags behind many of its competitors in the minivan segment.


Fuel Economy Ratings for the Dodge Caravan


According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the 2023 Dodge Caravan with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and front-wheel drive has an estimated fuel economy of 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 20 mpg combined.


These numbers put the Caravan behind many of its minivan rivals, such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Pacifica, which all achieve higher fuel efficiency ratings.


Factors Affecting the Caravan's Fuel Efficiency


There are a few key factors that contribute to the Dodge Caravan's relatively low fuel economy:



  • Larger Engine Size: The Caravan's standard 3.6-liter V6 engine is larger than the four-cylinder engines found in many competing minivans, which tend to be more fuel-efficient.

  • Heavier Weight: As a full-size minivan, the Caravan weighs more than smaller, more fuel-efficient models, which requires more energy to move the vehicle.

  • Lack of Hybrid or Electric Variants: Unlike some rivals, the Caravan does not offer a hybrid or all-electric powertrain option, which could significantly improve its fuel economy.


While the Caravan's fuel efficiency may not be its strongest selling point, it remains a popular choice for families due to its spacious interior, versatile seating, and reputation for reliability.

Is Dodge cheap to maintain?


Average Annual Dodge Maintenance Cost
Compared to the industry average of $652, Dodge vehicles are slightly less expensive to maintain. They're not as costly as luxury vehicles, which can cost upward of $850 for annual upkeep, nor are they as inexpensive as popular commuter brands, like Toyota and Hyundai.



What Dodge car has the best gas mileage?


Most Fuel Efficient Cars:

  • Maximum 2023 Dodge Challenger MPG: Up to 19 city mpg and 30 highway mpg.
  • Maximum 2023 Dodge Charger MPG: Up to 19 city mpg and 30 highway mpg.
  • Maximum 2023 Chrysler 300 MPG: Up to 19 city mpg and 30 highway mpg.



Is Dodge Grand Caravan good on gas?


Under optimal conditions, this minivan earns an EPA-estimated 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway, for a combined 20 MPG.



What are the disadvantages of a caravan?


The prime disadvantage of a static caravan is that you can't just tow it with a car. Special transportation is required which can be quite expensive. Motor homes are more like recreational vehicles (RV) with its own engine. Motor homes don't need any additional vehicle to tow them.



Is a Dodge Caravan a reliable car?


The Dodge Grand Caravan Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 8 for minivans. The average annual repair cost is $673 which means it has average ownership costs.



Does a Dodge get good gas mileage?


Dodge has 4 of its vehicles listed among the most fuel-efficient American-made cars, according to fueleconomy.gov. The overall top 2 spots are occupied by hybrids, but 3 of our trucks made the list in the 7th through 9th place spots: * 9th place - 2014 Ram 1500 4WD with V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission.



Are Dodge Caravans good on gas?


Under optimal conditions, this minivan earns an EPA-estimated 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway, for a combined 20 MPG.



How many miles will a Dodge Caravan last?


Typically, a Dodge Grand Caravan will survive 200,000-300,000 miles with excellent care, which places high mileage for the vehicle around the 200,000-mile mark and good mileage at 150,000 miles. Anything better than these numbers is a testament to your effort.



Why does my car run better when the gas tank is full?


Key components like your car's fuel pump and fuel filter depend on gas being in the tank to mitigate wear. Fuel pumps in modern vehicles are submerged in gasoline to keep them cool during operation. As the gas level decreases, the pump must work harder, heating up as a result.



Why is my Dodge Caravan using so much gas?


Dirty Fuel Injectors: Fuel injectors spray fuel into the cylinders where it is mixed with air and ignited. Over time the fuel injector system can become clogged. This can lead to a drop in fuel efficiency as well as slow acceleration and the car not having enough power.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.