Is Toyota Sienna bigger than a Dodge Caravan?

Yes, the Toyota Sienna is generally larger than the Dodge Caravan in terms of overall dimensions and interior space. The Sienna is considered a full-size minivan, while the Caravan is a mid-size minivan, resulting in the Sienna having a more spacious cabin and cargo area.

Comparing the Toyota Sienna and Dodge Caravan

The Toyota Sienna and Dodge Caravan are both popular minivan models, but they differ in their size and capabilities. Let's take a closer look at how these two vehicles compare:

Exterior Dimensions

• The Toyota Sienna has a longer overall length of 200.6 inches, compared to the Dodge Caravan's 203.8 inches.


• The Sienna is also slightly wider, with a width of 78.1 inches, while the Caravan measures 79.6 inches wide.


• In terms of height, the Sienna stands at 68.9 inches, while the Caravan is 68.8 inches tall.

These differences in exterior dimensions translate to a more spacious interior for the Toyota Sienna.

Interior Cargo Space

• The Toyota Sienna offers 39.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, compared to the Dodge Caravan's 32.3 cubic feet.


• With the second and third rows folded, the Sienna provides a maximum cargo capacity of 150.0 cubic feet, while the Caravan offers 140.5 cubic feet.

The additional interior space in the Sienna allows for more flexibility in carrying passengers and cargo.

Seating Capacity

• Both the Toyota Sienna and Dodge Caravan can seat up to eight passengers.


• However, the Sienna's larger dimensions provide more legroom and headroom for passengers, especially in the third row.

In summary, the Toyota Sienna is the larger and more spacious of the two minivans, offering more cargo capacity and a more comfortable interior for passengers. The Dodge Caravan, while still a capable minivan, is the smaller and more compact option between the two.

Why did they discontinue the Dodge Caravan?

The Dodge Caravan was discontinued primarily because of a shift in consumer demand away from minivans and toward SUVs, as well as the company's strategic decision to focus on higher-performance vehicles. Additionally, declining birth rates and a negative image associated with minivans contributed to the shrinking market, and Stellantis (formerly FCA) phased out the model to streamline its lineup and produce more profitable models.
 
This video explains the rise and fall of minivans: 55sWheels HistoryYouTube · Jul 16, 2025
Market and strategic factors

• Decline in minivan sales: The overall minivan market has shrunk significantly as consumers increasingly prefer SUVs and crossovers, which were marketed as more adventurous alternatives. 
• Company strategy: Dodge (and its parent company, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) decided to refocus on its muscle car and performance lineup, like the Challenger and Charger, which was a more profitable part of the brand. 
• Aging platform: The Grand Caravan's design was aging, and it was seen as less modern compared to newer competitors and even its Chrysler sibling, the Pacifica. 
• Market saturation: The minivan market was already a staple of American family life, so it had a lower growth potential. Many manufacturers had already introduced their own minivan models, and the market was saturated. 
• Declining birth rates: A drop in the birth rate meant that families no longer needed as many large, three-row vehicles, making the minivan less appealing to the average consumer. 

Replacement and production

• Chrysler Voyager: To fill the gap, Chrysler introduced the Voyager, a less-expensive version of the Pacifica, for the 2020 model year. 
• Production: Production of the Dodge Grand Caravan officially ended in the summer of 2020. 

This video explains what the discontinuation of the Dodge Caravan means for the Charger: 58sKnockout 360YouTube · Mar 3, 2020

What year of Toyota Sienna to stay away from?

The Toyota Sienna years to generally avoid are the 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2011, and 2017-2018 models due to common issues like sliding door problems, transmission troubles, and engine/suspension concerns. While many Siennas are reliable, these specific model years have more reported complaints and recalls.
 
Model years to avoid

• 2004: This first year of the second generation had the most owner complaints, particularly for sliding door issues. 
• 2005: This year is associated with problems such as a faulty automatic sliding door and climate control issues. 
• 2007: The 2007 model is often cited for engine and transmission problems, as well as recall issues with the transmission shift lever assembly. 
• 2008: Common problems include minor electrical issues and airbag/seat belt concerns. 
• 2011: This model year is known for premature suspension wear and engine problems, including stalling and rough idling. 
• 2017-early 2018: The 8-speed transmission in these models has been linked to issues like whining, jerky operation, and oil leaks. 

Other considerations

• Some sources suggest avoiding the 2006 model due to problems like failed oxygen sensors and sludge buildup, though it is still considered reliable overall. 
• While the 2011-2016 models with the 6-speed transmission are generally considered reliable, the 2017-2018 models with the 8-speed transmission are the ones to approach with caution due to transmission problems. 
• Regardless of the model year, it's always wise to get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic before buying any used car.

What is comparable to a Dodge Caravan?

When it comes to family-friendly minivans, the Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Grand Caravan have long been trusted by drivers for their versatility, comfort, and advanced features. At Hilltop Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Richmond, CA, we're here to help you decide which of these two vehicles best suits your family's needs.

Can a Toyota Sienna fit a full-size mattress?

Yes, a full-size mattress can fit in a Toyota Sienna, but it requires removing the middle row of seats and squeezing it in, as a full-size mattress is 54 inches wide and the Sienna is only about 48 inches wide at the wheel wells. Successfully fitting the mattress depends on removing seats, securing it properly, and understanding it will be a tight fit.
 
To fit a full-size mattress in a Toyota Sienna 

• Remove the middle row seats: You will need to remove the second-row seats to maximize the space. 
• Squeeze it in: A standard full mattress is 54 inches wide, while the Sienna's interior is narrower, particularly between the wheel wells. Be prepared to squeeze the mattress, which may require bending or compressing the sides slightly. 
• Secure it tightly: Once inside, use ratchet straps or other tie-downs to secure the mattress firmly to prevent it from shifting. This is crucial for safety, especially in case of an accident. 
• Be prepared for a tight fit: While it is possible to fit, it will be a snug fit and might not leave much extra room. The mattress will bend around the wheel wells, but it will fill the space well.