Midway through 2002, the Chrysler Town & Country line expanded to five trim levels, with the new high-value eL joining the existing LX, eX, LXi, and Limited. For 2003, the LXi and Limited are offered with either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive; all eL, LX, and eX models are front-wheel drive.
All models are built on a long, 119.3-inch wheelbase, making the Town & Country among the biggest minivans on the market.
The standard engine in the eL and LX is a 3.3-liter overhead-valve V6 producing 180 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. A 3.8-liter overhead-valve V6 developing 215 hp and 245 lb-ft is optional in eL and LX, standard in eX, LXi, and Limited. All models come with a four-speed automatic transmission with adaptive electronic control (so it learns your driving style and shifts accordingly). All come with four-wheel-disc brakes and ABS (anti-lock brakes).
Retail prices range from $23,870 for the eL to $37,945 for the Limited AWD, the latter loaded with leather and other features. Chrysler's Town & Country Limited feels like a luxury vehicle that happens to be a minivan. In between, a broad range of models meet varying needs and price ranges.
The model lineup can be a little confusing, because the bargain-priced eL comes with some standard equipment (such as three-zone climate control) that the $25,165 LX does not. On the other hand the LX offers some options (including the rear-seat video system) that are not available on the eL. Both come with power windows, heated mirrors, cruise control, tilt steering, seven-passenger seating, multi-stage air bags and ABS. Both feature dual sliding doors, with power an option for the passenger side.
The eX ($26,315) represents a definite step up, with a power-up and power-down rear liftgate, dual power sliding doors, a removable powered center console, AM/FM/CD/cassette stereo with six speakers, second-row bucket seats and split 50/50 roller seats in the extreme rear, a power eight-way driver's seat, and three-zone temperature control. The eX also comes with traction control and 16-inch tires and aluminum wheels. Dual power sliding doors, a security alarm, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls have been added to the eX equipment list for 2003.
The LXi ($29,460) adds automatic temperature control, an air filtration system, 10-speaker Infinity audio, a universal garage door opener, an electroluminescent instrument panel, and, new for 2003, an Electronic Vehicle Information Center (trip computer, etc.), auto-dimming mirrors, third-row lamps and assist handles, and a roof rack. Color-keyed lower bodyside cladding distinguishes the LXi as an uplevel model.
Leather upholstery is optional on both eX and LXi. Options added last year include DVD video and remote audio for the rear seat passengers (complete with wireless headphones) and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
The ultimate-luxury Limited ($35,620) coddles its occupants with premium-grade leather, memory seats, and a six-disc CD changer. It is distinguished externally by its color-keyed roof rack and chromed aluminum wheels.
All-wheel-drive editions of the LXi and Limited list for $33,333 and $37,945, respectively.
Side-impact airbags are optional on all models ($390).
In addition to the Town & Country line, Chrysler also markets the Voyager minivan, which is built on a 113.3-inch wheelbase and, with more basic equipment and appointments, represents a strong value in the family-transport market. (See separate NewCarTestDrive.com review of the Voyager line.)