Dodge Caravan - Generation III (1996–2000)

Generation III (1996–2000)

With Generation III, the Chrysler minivans were available in long- and short– wheelbase models; three- and four-door configurations; and eight different powertrains, including electric and compressed natural gas; on a single, flexible platform.

In development for nearly 5 years from early 1990 to December 26, 1994 (final design approved in May 1992), the 1996 model was introduced on January 4, 1995 at the 1995 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) using the Chrysler NS platform. It included a number of innovations, including a driver's side sliding door (optional initially, to become standard equipment later), a first for Chrysler and a non-compact minivan for the United States & Canada (the Honda Odyssey had introduced the first four-door non-compact minivan for the United States & Canada in 1994, although the first-generation Odyssey had rear-hinged doors). With Generation III, Chrysler introduced a seat management system marketed as Easy Out Roller Seats. A conventional door handle and lock was added to the rear hatch, eliminating the confusing pop-and-lift maneuver which had been required on earlier models.

Base models of the Caravan were offered in most states with either a 2.4 L four-cylinder or the 3.0 L Mitsubishi V6, except in several northeastern states, where the Mitsubishi V6 didn't meet emissions standards. In those locales, the 3.3 L engine was offered as the V6 option from 1997 through 2000. The manual transmission, never popular, was dropped; only some early 1996 models and European Chrysler Voyager were the only ones equipped with manuals. The 2.4 L four-cylinder engine produced more power than the Mitsubishi 3.0 had in the first two generations.

The 1996 Caravan, along with the Plymouth Voyager and the Chrysler Town & Country won the North American Car of the Year award. The Caravan itself won Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year 1996 and appeared on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1996 and 1997. 1999 also saw the addition of a one year only 15th anniversary "Platinum Edition", to mark Caravan's 15th year of production. This package was offered on various trim levels, and included Platinum Metallic paint, and fender badges. The 2000 model year offered packages which included the "2000+" and "Millennium" package, however these were little more than unique fender badges on vans with popular equipment.

In 1998, the 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan got new front styling on all trims above SE, and the Sport and ES models received even more sportier styling. The ES model was the first minivan to receive the "AutoStick" transmission and 17 inch wheels. A cargo net between the driver and front passenger seats was added. Some other changes during this generation included new colors, and interior fabric. Color keyed door and lift-gate handles were standard across the whole range, in addition to a new keyless entry remote. The 3–Door with 1 sliding door is discontinued and it's replaced with 2 sliding doors as a 4–Door. Chrysler had updates of the Plymouth Voyager in 1996 for the 1997 model year and the Chrysler Town & Country in 1997 for the 1998 model year, prior to the 1998–2007 DaimlerChrysler era; it was the only exterior update of the NS Dodge Caravan.

In the back of the van, in the third row of seats to be exact, it included speakers, cupholders, and a box with a car charger on the back of the compartment on the left side of the van.