The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan has been fully redesigned. A new 4.0-liter V6 is available, married to a six-speed automatic transmission that features a manual mode for those who prefer to shift gears themselves, even in a minivan. Even with the optional larger engine, expect a quieter ride, thanks to thicker glass, deeper carpet padding, additional seals and isolated front suspension components.

Dodge’s “Swivel ‘n Go” seats and an optional square table means the family van can now double as a living room on wheels. The third row also offers power fold-flat seats! No other minivan on the market has these flexible seating features. The 2008 model is also roomier inside than its predecessor, and there’s more storage space behind the third row of seats.

But what makes this new minivan “cool” is Dodge’s new entertainment technology. An optional three-zone video system allows the front, middle and rear-seat passengers to watch or listen to totally separate entertainment sources. Your toddler and your teenager can watch separate DVDs, while you enjoy your favorite music for a change! The new Caravan also offers Sirius Backseat TV, which features the Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and the Disney Channel. The Dodge Grand Caravan (and its twin, the Chrysler Town & Country) are the only vehicles, minivan or otherwise, to currently offer this feature.

The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan starts at $22,520 and is available in two trim levels. The base SE comes with power windows and locks, A/C, keyless entry, a CD/MP3 player, and a flip-down kiddie mirror to check on the troops. The SXT adds a more powerful engine, a power driver seat and adjustable pedals, power sliding doors and rear A/C. The SXT also offers an optional hard-drive-based audio system, rear DVD entertainment (one or two systems), a 115-volt household-style outlet, satellite radio, navigation, and a backup camera. Also available are surround-sound, leather seating, retractable sunshades, remote start, three-zone climate control and hands-free phone. These exciting options do add up, however, and can easily hike the price of this family-mobile over $40,000!

In the past, the Dodge Grand Caravan has been ranked near the bottom of its class by Consumer Reports for quality and reliability. Not anymore! Consumer Reports applauded Dodge for its vastly improved new design, and ranked the 2008 Grand Caravan third in predicted reliability, just behind the esteemed (and more expensive) Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey. Dodge has also improved its safety equipment. Traction control, stability control, antilock brakes with brake assist as well as three rows of head curtain airbags are all standard on both trim levels.

A long list of unique equipment and technology, plus vastly improved safety and reliability ratings, mean the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan (or the Chrysler Town & County) should definitely be on your short list when shopping for a family-friendly vehicle. You can even get an orange one.