What are the features of the 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan?
The 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan emphasizes practicality for families, with seating for up to seven, versatile Stow ’n Go seating, and a range of tech and safety options that vary by trim. It pairs a capable V6 with ample cargo space and configurable interiors to suit daily driving and road trips.
Performance and Powertrain
Engine and Transmission
The 2016 Grand Caravan uses a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 283 horsepower and about 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive was not offered for this model year.
Key specifications include:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6
- 283 hp and 260 lb-ft torque
- Six-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive (standard)
- EPA-estimated fuel economy around 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
Overall, the Grand Caravan prioritizes steady, reliable performance suitable for family trips and everyday hauling rather than sporty acceleration.
Interior and Seating
Seating Configurations
The cabin centers on flexible seating and cargo arrangements. It can accommodate up to seven passengers, with Stow ’n Go seating that lets second- and third-row rows fold completely into the floor to maximize cargo space. Depending on trim, the second row may be captain’s chairs or a 3-passenger bench.
Interior versatility highlights include:
- Seating for up to seven
- Stow ’n Go second- and third-row seats that fold into the floor
- Configurable second-row arrangements (captain’s chairs or bench)
- Multiple storage compartments and cupholders throughout the cabin
When configured for maximum cargo, the Grand Caravan offers ample space for gear, groceries, or vacation luggage.
Technology and Entertainment
Infotainment Options
Tech features vary by trim, but the Grand Caravan offered modern connectivity and audio options for its time. Central control typically revolved around the Uconnect system with touchscreen interfaces, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity; higher trims could add navigation and a rear-seat entertainment setup.
Key tech and entertainment features include:
- Uconnect infotainment with touchscreen controls
- Bluetooth wireless connectivity and USB ports
- Available navigation system on higher trims
- Rear-seat DVD entertainment system on select packages
- Integrated rearview camera for parking assistance
Feature availability depends on trim level and options, so exact configurations vary from model to model.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Active and Passive Safety
Standard safety equipment focuses on core protection and braking performance, with higher trims offering added assistance. A rearview camera is commonly standard, while features like blind-spot monitoring or rear cross-path detection appear on optional packages or higher trims.
Representative safety features include:
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and stability/traction control
- ParkView rear backup camera (standard)
- ParkSense rear park assist (optional on some trims)
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-path detection (optional)
- Multiple airbags and reinforced safety structure
Overall, the safety suite aligns with mid-range family vehicles of its era, balancing essential protections with available advanced aids on higher-spec models.
Practicality and Convenience
Doors, Liftgate, and Everyday Use
Convenience features emphasize ease of access and cargo handling. Dual sliding doors are standard on many trims, with power-sliding doors and a power liftgate available on higher trims or as options. Other comfort and convenience items include remote keyless entry and climate control systems designed to keep rear passengers comfortable.
Notable practicality features include:
- Dual sliding doors (manual or power options depending on trim)
- Power liftgate available on higher trims
- Remote keyless entry
- Tri-zone (or rear-zone) climate control on select models
- Ample storage cubbies and cupholders across the cabin
These features enhance everyday usability for families, errands, and long trips alike.
Trim Levels and Availability
Trim Summary
The 2016 Grand Caravan was offered in multiple trims, typically including SE, SE Plus, and SXT, with higher-tier packages adding more features such as upgraded infotainment, leather seating, and additional safety tools. Availability of certain features depended on the chosen trim and optional packages.
Notes on configuration:
- SE, SE Plus, and SXT trims (feature distribution varies by trim)
- Higher trims add tech upgrades, leather seating options, and convenience packages
- All models used front-wheel drive; no AWD option was offered for the 2016 Grand Caravan
Trims determine the balance of space, tech, and comfort that best fits a buyer’s needs.
Summary
The 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan remains a pragmatic choice in the minivan segment, offering flexible seating and cargo configurations, a capable V6 powertrain, and a range of technology and safety features that scale with trim. Its core strengths lie in spacious interior utility, reliability, and value for families prioritizing practicality over performance.
