Which is bigger, Chrysler Pacifica or Dodge Caravan?
The Chrysler Pacifica is bigger in most modern measurements than the Dodge Grand Caravan. The Grand Caravan, a model line that has largely faded from U.S. showrooms, is typically smaller in exterior footprint and interior space compared with the Pacifica, which remains the current flagship minivan for the brand. Here is a closer look at how they compare across key size-related areas.
Dimension snapshot
To compare size, we examine exterior footprint, interior space, and cargo versatility. The Pacifica’s newer packaging generally yields a larger overall footprint and more adaptable cargo configurations.
- Exterior footprint: The Pacifica is typically longer and a bit wider than the Grand Caravan, giving it a noticeably larger presence on the road.
- Interior space and seating: The Pacifica usually offers more passenger volume and flexible seating layouts, though both vans can seat seven to eight people depending on configuration.
- Cargo capacity: Behind the third row, both vans provide practical cargo space; the Pacifica often provides more versatile storage options thanks to its modern interior packaging, while the Grand Caravan remains competitive with its Stow ’n Go setup.
In everyday use, most buyers will perceive the Pacifica as the roomier, more accommodating option on a day-to-day basis, especially when it comes to loading luggage or bulky items. The Grand Caravan, while still functional, reflects an older generation of minivan design.
Availability and model history
Context matters for size comparisons. The Dodge Grand Caravan has largely been phased out of U.S. dealerships in favor of the Chrysler Pacifica, which has served as the brand’s main minivan since its introduction. In some markets and years, the Grand Caravan name appeared in limited offerings, but there is no current, broad Dodge Caravan lineup in the United States.
What the numbers say (dimensions at a glance)
For precise measurements, consult the official specs for the exact model year you’re considering. The following points summarize the relative size without tying to a specific year range.
- Exterior length and width: The Pacifica generally presents a larger footprint than the Grand Caravan, contributing to a perception of greater overall size.
- Height and cabin volume: The Pacifica’s newer design tends to optimize headroom and interior space, reinforcing its status as the roomier option among modern minivans.
Taken together, these dimensional tendencies support the conclusion that the Chrysler Pacifica is the larger vehicle in current production contexts, with the Grand Caravan serving as a legacy model from an earlier era of minivans.
Bottom line
The Chrysler Pacifica is bigger than the Dodge Grand Caravan in most measurable ways, including exterior footprint and interior versatility. The Grand Caravan, once a staple of affordable family transport, has given way to the Pacifica in the U.S. market, though it remains a reference point for older minivan designs in places where it persisted longer.
Summary
Overall, if size and modern packaging are your criteria, the Chrysler Pacifica is the larger, more spacious option. The Dodge Grand Caravan represents an earlier generation of minivans and is no longer the current flagship choice in the United States. For buyers prioritizing space, flexibility, and contemporary features, the Pacifica stands out as the bigger vehicle in today’s market.
What is the Dodge equivalent to the Chrysler Pacifica?
Dodge Grand 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.
Why did they discontinue the Dodge Grand 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 is the difference between a Chrysler Pacifica and a Dodge Caravan?
The Chrysler Pacifica is the more modern and upscale option, featuring premium features, advanced technology, and a hybrid option, while the Grand Caravan is a more budget-friendly and practical choice with a slightly larger maximum cargo capacity. Both minivans share a similar V6 engine and offer innovative Stow 'n Go seating, but the Pacifica offers seating for up to eight passengers and available all-wheel drive, making it more versatile for larger families or those needing higher towing capacity.
Chrysler Pacifica
- Pros: More modern design, advanced technology and safety features, hybrid powertrain option, and available all-wheel drive.
- Interior: Typically seats up to 8 passengers, with a premium feel and advanced infotainment system.
- Towing: Can tow up to 3,600 pounds.
Dodge Grand Caravan (based on older platforms, but still sold as a budget option)
- Pros: More affordable, and offers a greater maximum cargo volume with the seats folded.
- Interior: Seats up to 7 passengers, and features a more basic, user-friendly infotainment system.
- Seating: The Grand Caravan is known for its versatile Super Stow 'n Go seating, which folds the second and third rows into the floor, but is still an older design.
Which one is right for you?
- Choose the Pacifica if: you want the latest technology, a more premium and luxurious experience, a fuel-efficient hybrid option, or all-wheel drive.
- Choose the Grand Caravan if: you prioritize a lower purchase price and need maximum cargo space for a budget-friendly price.
What is the Chrysler equivalent to the Dodge Caravan?
Its replacement will be the Chrysler Voyager, which is an entry-level version of the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, and will offer similar pricing and features to its Grand Caravan predecessor.
