4th generation Dodge Caravan dimensions (2008–): full overview of dimensions, body and trunk

Dodge Caravan The fourth generation is one of the most popular minivans in North America, which was produced from 2008 to 2020. This car is famous for its spacious interior, practicality and convenience for family trips. However, before buying or renting, it is important to know exactly its dimensions: maneuverability on the road, the ability to park in a garage, and even the choice of car seats for children depend on them.

In this article we will look at all sizes in detail. Dodge Caravan 4 - from the length and width of the body to the volume of the trunk in different configurations. You will learn how dimensions affect operating comfort, compare them with the main competitors and give advice on choosing a modification to suit your needs. We will pay special attention to the nuances that are often missed when buying a used minivan.

Main dimensions of Dodge Caravan 4th generation (2008–2020)

Fourth generation Dodge Caravan retained the classic minivan layout, but received a more modern design and improved ergonomics. Basic body dimensions remained virtually unchanged throughout all production years, with the exception of minor updates in 2011 and 2017.

Here are the key parameters that determine the external dimensions of the car:

• 📏 Body length: 5146 mm (202.6 in) - standard for full-size minivans.
• 📐 Width without mirrors: 1998 mm (78.7 inches), with mirrors - up to 2200 mm.
• 📊 Height: 1750 mm (68.9 inches) - allows comfortable seating for passengers up to 190 cm tall.
• 🔄 Wheelbase: 3078 mm (121.2 inches) - guarantees stability and smoothness.
• 🚗 Ground clearance (ground clearance): 130 mm - Typical for the class, but requires caution on bad roads.

These sizes make Caravan one of the most spacious minivans in its class, but at the same time retaining acceptable maneuverability for urban conditions. For example, the turning radius is about 6.1 meters, which is better than many crossovers of similar size.

Comparison with competitors: who is more spacious?

In the minivan market Dodge Caravan 4 competes with models such as Chrysler Town & Country, Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey. Let's compare their key dimensions in the table:

Model	Length, mm	Width, mm	Height, mm	Wheelbase, mm	Trunk volume (max.), l
Dodge Caravan 4	5146	1998	1750	3078	4072
Chrysler Town & Country	5151	1998	1760	3078	4072
Toyota Sienna (2011–2020)	5085	1986	1776	3030	4248
Honda Odyssey (2011–2017)	5141	1994	1735	3000	4161
Kia Sedona (2015–2020)	5115	1985	1780	3060	4040

As can be seen from the table, Dodge Caravan slightly inferior Toyota Sienna in terms of trunk volume, but exceeds Honda Odyssey along the length of the wheelbase, which has a positive effect on the comfort of passengers in the second and third rows. I wonder what Chrysler Town & Country - it's actually the same Caravan, but with a more premium finish, so their dimensions are identical.

⚠️ Attention: When choosing between Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country Pay attention not to the dimensions, but to the equipment. Town & Country often equipped with more expensive options such as leather trim or a multimedia system Uconnect with a big screen.

Trunk dimensions: from 930 to 4072 liters

One of the main advantages Dodge Caravan 4 is a transformable interior that allows you to change the volume of the luggage compartment depending on your needs. As standard, the minivan is equipped with a system Stow 'n Go, which allows the second row seats to be folded into the floor, freeing up additional space.

Here's how the trunk volume changes in different configurations:

• 🪑 All the seats are up (7 passengers): 930 liters - enough for everyday shopping or small luggage.
• 🚼 Third row folded (5 passengers): 2500 liters - suitable for transporting large cargo or strollers.
• 🛋️ Second and third rows folded (2 passengers): 4072 liters - the maximum volume for moving or large purchases.

System Stow 'n Go It is convenient in that the second row seats fold into special niches in the floor, forming a flat loading area. However, this system also has a disadvantage: When the second row seats are folded, access to the hidden storage compartments under the floor is blocked. This is important to consider if you plan to use these compartments for tools or a spare tire.

Fold down third row seats to carry long cargo

Use luggage organizers to avoid items moving around

Check tire pressure when fully loaded (recommended: 2.4–2.6 bar)

Do not exceed maximum load capacity (up to 680 kg for most versions) -->

Influence of dimensions on operation: parking, garage, maneuverability

Despite its impressive size, Dodge Caravan 4 quite well adapted for urban use. However, there are several nuances that are worth considering:

1. Parking on narrow streets: The vehicle's width (1998 mm) may cause difficulties when parking between other cars. We recommend using parking sensors or a rear view camera, which were available in top trim levels.
2. Garage restrictions: height 1750 mm requires a garage with a gate of at least 2 meters. Also consider the length of 5146 mm - a standard 5 meter garage may be a bit cramped.
3. Maneuverability: thanks to short overhangs (front - 900 mm, rear - 1168 mm) and electric power steering, Caravan It handles predictably when cornering, but takes some getting used to when changing lanes at high speed.

Experienced owners note that when towing a trailer (maximum weight up to 1600 kg), handling deteriorates, so it is important to properly distribute the load and use stabilizers.

Body features: what you need to know before buying

Body Dodge Caravan 4 made of galvanized steel, which provides good protection against corrosion. However, there are several weak points that you should pay attention to when inspecting a used car:

• 🚪 Rear doors: often suffer from problems with electronics (for example, opening sensors may fail). Check for smooth operation and absence of squeaks.
• 🔥 Paintwork: Microcracks may appear on the roof and hood over time due to temperature changes. Examine these areas in bright light.
• 💧 Door seals: If they are worn out, water may enter the interior, especially in the area of the sills. Check the rugs for moisture.
• 🔩 Bumper mounts: after minor accidents, bumpers are often fastened, which leads to backlash. Ask the seller to show the fasteners.

Also pay attention to the condition sliding doors - this is one of the most vulnerable parts Caravan. The door mechanism requires regular lubrication, and the guides can become deformed if opened inaccurately. Check for gaps between the door and the body, and make sure that the door does not “sag” when opened.

⚠️ Attention: If upon inspection you find rust on spars or jacking points, this is a serious reason for bargaining or refusing to purchase. These body parts are safety critical and are expensive to repair.

How to check the body for hidden corrosion?

Use a neodymium magnet - if it doesn't stick to the metal, it probably has putty.

Inspect the welds in the trunk and under the hood - rust often starts there.

Check the drainage holes in doors and thresholds: if they are clogged, moisture will accumulate inside.

If the seller recently painted the car, ask for documents from the paint booth - this will reduce the risk of “repainting” after an accident.

How to choose a size modification?

Dodge Caravan 4 was offered in several trim levels, which differed slightly in size and interior layout. Here are the key differences:

1. Basic equipment (SE, SXT):

— Standard body length (5146 mm).

— Second row seats — bench for 3 places (does not fold into the floor).

— Trunk volume in 7-seater configuration: 930 l.

2. Configurations with the Stow 'n Go system (Crew, R/T):

— The same external dimensions, but with folding second row seats.

— Possibility of transforming the interior into a cargo compartment with a volume of up to 4072 liters.

— Additional storage compartments under the floor (volume ~20 l each).

3. Long version (Grand Caravan):

— Body length increased to 5237 mm (91 mm longer than the standard version).

— The wheelbase remains the same (3078 mm), but the trunk has been increased.

— More comfortable third row of seats due to additional legroom.

If you need the most practical option for transporting goods, choose modifications with Stow 'n Go. For families with children, the extended version is suitable Grand Caravan, where third-row passengers will not feel cramped.

Frequently asked questions about Dodge Caravan 4 sizes

What is the maximum weight that can be carried in the trunk?

Maximum load capacity Dodge Caravan 4 amounts to 680 kg (including passengers). However, this value may vary depending on the trim level and engine type. For example, models with an engine 3.6L Pentastar V6 have a slightly larger load reserve than versions with 3.3L V6.

When the trunk is fully loaded, we recommend distributing the load evenly and avoid overloading the rear axle - this can lead to suspension sagging and poor handling.

Is it possible to install a roof rack or box on the roof?

Yes, on Dodge Caravan 4 You can install roof rails and rack mounts. Maximum roof load - 75 kg (indicated in the instruction manual). However, keep in mind that a high trunk will increase the overall height of the car by up to 2 meters or more, which can create problems when entering some parking lots.

We recommend using original roof rails for mounting. Mopar or certified analogues from Thule or Yakima.

Will the Caravan fit in a 2m high garage?

Standard height Dodge Caravan 4 - 1750 mm, so it will easily fit into a garage with a door height of 2 meters. However, pay attention to two points:

1. If a roof rack or antenna is installed, the total height may increase to 1800–1900 mm.

2. When the sliding doors are open, the width of the car increases to ~3 meters, so it can be cramped in a narrow garage.

What tire sizes are recommended for the Caravan 4?

Factory tire sizes for Dodge Caravan 4 depend on the configuration:

• Basic versions: 215/65 R16 or 225/65 R17.
• Top trim levels (R/T): 225/60 R18.

Hub Bore Diameter (PCD) - 5×114.3, departure (ET) - usually 45–50 mm. When choosing custom rims, make sure they do not interfere with suspension components or brake calipers.

What is the ground clearance of the Caravan 4 and can it be increased?

Ground clearance (ground clearance) Dodge Caravan 4 amounts to 130 mm. This is typical for minivans, but insufficient for off-road use. You can increase clearance in two ways:

1. Install spacers for springs (for example, from Daystar or Supreme Suspensions). This will add 20-30mm of clearance, but may degrade handling.

2. Replace springs and shock absorbers with reinforced ones (for example, Moog or Monroe). It is more expensive, but retains factory suspension characteristics.

Remember that an increase in ground clearance may require wheel alignment adjustments and affect the life of the CV joints.