REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Practical Luxury

For minivans priced above $40,000, DaimlerChrysler has a 50 percent market share in the luxury minivan segment it created 10 years ago with the Chrysler Town & Country. Redesigned for 2001, the T&C offers improved refinement and a long list of new comfort and convenience features.

Available in only one wheelbase, the T&C has the LX, LXi and Limited trim levels. The base LX is reasonably well equipped, but the LXi offers more of the features expected in an upscale vehicle. The Limited loads on luxury with a larger engine, leather, power everything and enhanced safety features.

LX and LXi models feature a 3.3-liter, 180-hp V-6 engine. A 3.8-liter 215-hp V-6 is optional on the LXi and standard on the Limited. All engines are coupled to a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The interior package includes several industry firsts, such as a removable, powered center console that may be latched into place either between the front or middle-row seats. Docking into brackets attached to the floor, the console provides power through an outlet in its front compartment. When the console is removed, the bracket functions as a storage tray complete with rubber liner. The instrument panel can be highlighted by an electroluminescent instrument cluster, and all passengers can stay comfortable with a new 3-zone climate control system. Audio systems include an instrument-panel-mounted 4-disc CD changer.

To optimize passenger and cargo-carrying flexibility, the third row is split, allowing removal of either or both seats. Optional center bucket seats tilt to improve rear entry and exit, fold and tumble for added storage capability, and have rollers to help with installation and removal.

Entry and exit are minivan-easy, at least for the first 2 rows. Getting to the rear seat is a bit of a chore. The seating position is high and all passengers enjoy a good view of the road ahead, but the driver’s view to the rear is blocked when there’s a full load of passengers. Cargo space with the third seat in place is adequate, but becomes huge when the third seat is removed. On the road, the Town & Country can only be described as minivan-like. The ride is smooth, handling is mediocre and powertrain performance is adequate - exactly what most minivan buyers expect.

With a touch of luxury, the Town & Country fills the needs of many who find cramped family sedans or hard-riding SUVs unacceptable.

PROS
Room/comfort
Power doors and liftgate
Convenience

CONS
Autostick not pertinent
Mirrors too small
Reliability still a concern

CRASH TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)
Driver: * * * *
Passenger: * * * * *

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