We review the Chrysler Grand Voyager (2010) from price to economy and all its features
SIZE matters — certainly when it comes to people carriers.
The Grand Voyager is the daddy of the class, having sold a whopping 12million since its launch in 1988.
And the new model is a massive hit again — certainly in size.
Parents will love the depth of the boot and loading height — I found it a doddle to throw in all the usual paraphernalia and still hang on to my kids.
It's also a big bonus that the side doors open electronically from the key fob — it makes putting the kids into their seats with bags of shopping in a busy supermarket car park a much easier task.
Mobile living room … Swivel 'n Go seating
Inside, the Voyager also has Chrysler's latest gimmick — the Swivel 'n Go seating system, which turns the new Grand Voyager into a mobile living room.
The system allows the middle row of seats to turn 180 degrees so passengers can talk to others in the third row. Add a table and it's an office or playroom.
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And the new Voyager is possibly the most family-friendly vehicle you can get. As well as Swivel 'n Go, there's Stow 'n Go, which allows you to fold the second and third rows of seats under the floor.
It's a £750 option together with an electric folding, reclining third rear bench seat.
Although the quality of some plastics and fabrics inside are dubious, the family side of the Grand Voyager is outstanding.
Massive hit … Grand Voyager
However, the driving experience is less exciting.
On the road, the 2.8-litre turbo diesel's refinement has improved but it is still tiresome in low-speed city traffic. And it sounds a bit agricultural at times, too. And, although fine cruising at motorway speeds, it struggles with the weight.
But economy is 30mpg plus.
Handling is reasonable for a vehicle nearly 17ft long — but the Voyager wasn't built for driving pleasure. For a big people carrier the Grand Voyager is competitively priced at £25,995 for the LX.
That undercuts a Renault Grand Espace, and the top-of-the-range, leather-clad, all-singing, all-dancing Limited costs £32,995.