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Next-Gen Chrysler Minivans To Get 9-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive
by
Derek Kreindler
(IC: employee)
Published: February 18th, 2014
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Much of the news surrounding the next-generation Chrysler minivans has involved the location of their assembly, with Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne looking to secure government funds for the new vans. The latest report from Automotive News manages to dredge up some product details on the vans themselves.
Judging by the AN report, the new minivans will employ Chrysler mainstays like the 9-speed automatic transmission, the UConnect infotainment system and a revised Stow ‘N Go seating system. For the first time in roughly a decade, all-wheel drive will return, presumably the same system shared with the Chrysler 200 and Jeep Cherokee.
Derek Kreindler
More by Derek Kreindler
Published February 18th, 2014 10:29 AM
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I don't get the point of an AWD minivan either. It seems to me like a purchase that would be made by someone who is too stubborn to just buy an AWD crossover...
I think that the point of a AWD minivan is that it gets people OUT of a silly crossover that doesn't do well at hauling families. As an owner of a silly CUV with AWD, I can say that it's fantastic in the snow. Sadly, it converted itself to FWD (dead transfer case) and is total crap in the slippery stuff now. Where it (was) good in the snow, it is absolute rubbish at hauling kids and stuff. No room beyond 3rd row, hard to get in and out of (with child seats), etc. More AWD minivans would make the CUV pointless--which is probably why few are made.
Could someone please enlighten me, why do we need AWD on a minivan? I've been driving minivans for 14 years, Caravan for 5, I live in a hilly area in Canada (no shortage of snow and ice this year!!) I have snowtires on separate rims, never been stuck. In the summer the snows hide in the basement, I don't have to constantly drag them around all summer like AWD components. If driving conditions are so bad my 2WD van can't get through probably nobody should be driving. This year I've been passed by several SUV and Pickups in bad conditions, then later we see them in the ditch. I can see if you're a paramedic in Vermont and you must must get to work you just might need AWD, but how many of those drive minivans?
Because it is a lot easier to get your bass boat out of the water on a slippery ramp with awd instead of fwd. And it is tough to beat a minivan in usable cargo space.