2007 Detroit Auto Show:2008 Chrysler Minivans
New and Improved
The Chrysler Group showed off their new 2008 Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country Minivans at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this week. Actual vehicle introduction isn't until September 2007, however.
More Power
Powertrain improvements include a new, more powerful, 4.0L V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle - a first for the Minivan segment.
Restyled
While basically similar in terms of style and package, the new Minivans are, if anything, a little more biased towards package (less tumblehome, stiffer D-pillar) and less advanced in exterior appearance. Probably appropriate for a segment where swoopy styling is less important than functionality. Nissan tested the stylish Minivan segment with the Quest, and found it to be pretty small!
Low Demand Models Eliminated
No longer will Chrysler offer All-Wheel-Drive Minivans. Never was much demand. Couldn't have been much incrementality. Those prospects interested in more traction would probably be happier with an SUV or XSUV anyway. And the Short Wheelbase versions are also discontinued. Again, little or no loss. It is amazing how Chrysler invented the modern Minivan back in late1983 with a 100% SWB/4-cylinder product line. How times have changed!
New Interior Feature
Chrysler's "Stow'N Go" seating has been a real success. Now they will offer "Swivel 'N Go": swiveling seats with an available table for the kids to have lunch on or to play on. Might be some demand, we'll see.
Sales Prognosis
The Minivan market was down about 12% in 2006 vs 2005, but still almost 1,000,000 units per year. Some further decline can be expected as XSUV availablity and sales continue to increase.
How about Chrysler Minivan sales? I expect them to increase! Why? Because the 2008 product program is so strong? No. Rather because GM and Ford have announced that they are getting out of the Minivan business, and much of their volume may be captured by Chrysler. Once again, luck beats planning!
