Used Grand Caravan vs. Used Pacifica

Shopping for a new family car can get confusing, especially when there are lots of different opinions chiming in. Should you get an SUV? What about a minivan? You could even pick a large sedan or a station wagon for your next ride. If you are in the market for a new car, you probably need some help. After searching for “the best used car dealerships near me,” you’ll have to choose between a range of makes and models. Those who reside near Hancock county owe it to themselves to check out Findlay Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.

Before landing on your ideal fit, you need to consider your budget and lifestyle. Economists almost universally agree that purchasing a used vehicle is a smart financial move. Unfortunately, the constant bombardment of automobile advertising starts to make it seem like every new car is worth the high purchase price. Block out the noise and instead consider a reliable used family vehicle like the Dodge Grand Caravan or Chrysler Pacifica. Here’s how these two vehicles stack up.

What to Expect in a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan

The Dodge Grand Caravan has been around since 1987, but we will stick to the 2017 model year. Not only are three-year-old used cars generally the best value, but the Chrysler Pacific first hit the market in 2017. However, if you are looking for something more affordable, the more recent release of the Pacific makes the Grand Caravan by far your best bet.

If there’s one thing the Grand Caravan and Pacifica have in common, it’s their ability to transport a large group comfortably. A 2017 Caravan seats seven passengers with ease, sweetening the deal with a range of interior refinements across its four trim levels. Starting with the base SE model, tri-zone climate control keeps everyone cozy and content at their preferred temperature. It can also be found with the Uconnect Hands-Free Group Package and optional second-row bucket seats. This package makes for a happy commute along with satellite radio, a USB port, and Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity.

If you opt for the SE Plus trim, you’ll also get second-row captain’s chairs, with upgraded upholstery and trim. For leather upholstery and an eight-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, you can’t go wrong with the Grand Caravan SXT. A power liftgate, remote start, and automatic headlights are just a few of the additional reasons to spring for the SXT. The SXT is also eligible for the Driver Convenience Group Package, adding heated front and second-row seats, voice controls, and additional storage options.

At the high end of the trims is the Grand Caravan GT. The GT maintains the perks of lower trims, including the driver convenience group from the SXT. When it comes to performance, the GT ups the game with performance-tuned suspension and higher-end wheels. On the inside, you can expect handsome black interior accents and full leather seating, as well as an eight-way power seat for the front passenger. An attractive driver information center, a 115-volt outlet, an upgraded nine-speaker audio system, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen display aren’t bad for a used minivan.

Steep Competition From the Chrysler Pacifica

There are five trim levels for the Chrysler Pacifica. The base package of the Pacifica is the LX, which comes with a bevy of features. Externally, you will find LED daytime running lights, heated mirrors, remote locks, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, push-button ignition and seating for seven (including the Stow ‘n Go seats with 60/40 third-row folding split) are excellent features.

The eight-way power driver seat and three-zone climate control keep everyone comfortable. Enjoy an extensive suite of technology, including a 5-inch center touchscreen display with Bluetooth, Uconnect Access, voice commands, and a rearview camera. The Pacifica LX also comes standard with a six-speaker sound system, auxiliary inputs, and USB access.

The next level up is the Touring model, which includes all the features of the LX, adding automatic headlights, satellite radio, keyless entry, and power-sliding rear doors. From there, you can opt up to the mid-level Touring-L to get roof rails, a remote engine starter, upgraded exterior trim, fog lights, LED taillights, and a power liftgate. All seats are leather on the Touring-L, and the front seats are heated. It also has a security alarm, rear-cross traffic alert, and automatic climate control.

Upping to the Touring-L Plus introduces an upgraded driver information display, heated second-row seats and steering wheel, an eight-way power front passenger seat, and ambient lighting. Drivers will enjoy a boost to the technology and entertainment systems, with a Blu-Ray player, a 13-speaker sound system, and an 8.4-inch touch screen. The Touring-L Plus model even has second-row entertainment with dual 10-inch touch screens.

The Pacifica’s top trim is the coveted Limited. Not only will you get two sunroofs, a hands-free liftgate, power-folding mirrors, LED fog lights, and Xenon headlights top it all off. The Limited’s upgraded leather upholstery, driver-seat memory settings, ventilated front seats, upgraded ambient interior lighting, and navigation system are well-suited for families looking for a touch of luxury. Did we mention that it also has an incorporated vacuum cleaner? You can’t get more family-oriented than that.

Head to Head in Power and Storage

Both the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan and the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica are fitted with a single engine option across all trim levels. Grand Caravan drivers get a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Chrysler Pacifica’s standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 with 287 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Although the two engines are relatively evenly matched, the Grand Caravan does have a slight edge in power.

The Grand Caravan also has an edge in cargo space, offering a maximum of 143.8 cubic feet, with 33 cubic feet behind the third row. Meanwhile, the Pacific comes with 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row. While the Pacific might be a somewhat more recent model, the Grand Caravan is more affordable, more powerful, and offers more cargo space.

There’s Nothing Like a Test Drive

While it’s possible to research specs and reviews all day, there’s nothing quite like the real-life experience of getting behind the wheel, turning the key (or pushing the button), and stepping your foot down on the gas pedal. Each individual used vehicle has its own unique story to tell. That’s why we encourage you to visit Findlay CDJR and check out our quality inventory in person. At our dealership, we let you compare and contrast your options across a range of automakers, all in one place.

Findlay CDJR is proud to stand by our Buy Smart Promise. We guarantee you the absolute best upfront pricing, cash offers on your trade-in vehicle, salespeople who work for you (not for commission), and multiple financing quotes with no waiting. We take the stress out of car-buying so you can enjoy a fun and rewarding exchange at our dealership. Visit us today and let us show you the difference that Findlay CDJR can make. After buying a used car from us, you will never want to step foot in another dealership again.