It's not hard to understand why the Dodge Caravan is consistently among the top-selling minivans in America. Not only does it do workmanlike duty as a cargo-hauler, it also delivers the kind of spaciousness, comfort, styling, ride quality and handling that buyers have come to expect from the company that has dominated the minivan field for the past 15 years. And the Caravan does it for a price that makes it one of the better values in the minivan field.
Chrysler realizes minivan buyers aren't all the same, so the company offers a model to suit the tastes, needs and budget of every imaginable buyer. Each comes in short- and long-wheelbase versions to suit space requirements. Chrysler Town & Country rides like a luxury sedan, while Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan are designed to offer value. The base Dodge Caravan doesn't skimp on the essentials, but is priced nearly $14,000 less than the Town & Country LXi.
A few changes were made for 1999. The rear floor pan and spare-tire winch were redesigned to increase the angle of departure, which means the back of the vehicle is less likely to scrape the ground when traversing steep driveways, gullies, or other obstacles that challenge the Caravan's ground clearance. Designers have upgraded the appearance with a body-colored grille and door handles. Light Cypress Green was added to the palette. On the top-line Grand Caravan ES, 17-inch touring tires and 17-inch aluminum wheels are now standard, as is a rear spoiler.
Inside, a front-seat cargo net has been added. A small trip computer is now available for the top-line Grand Caravan ES. A next-generation airbag has been added. Head restraints for the middle and rear seats are now standard, and a child safety seat is available on models with the quad-seat configuration.