The Dodge Grand Caravan used to be a very popular minivan. It shared many of the same advantages minivans of today still possess. For example, it’s more spacious than most SUVs but far more affordable. The Grand Caravan started just under $30,000 for the base model in its final model year. However, many reviewers recommended other options in the segment even when it was in production. In 2023, there’s no way to buy a new Grand Caravan, but there are some seriously great Dodge Grand Caravan alternatives for under $45,000.

Why do you need a Dodge Grand Caravan alternative?

This is one of the plainest and most obvious reasons someone could require an alternative model. Simply put, the Dodge Grand Caravan was discontinued a few years ago. Following the 2020 model year, the automaker announced the minivan would exit production. Buyers set on getting a Grand Caravan can find used models if they search hard enough, but many experts don’t recommend it. Even in its final model year, Car and Driver called its design “ancient,” and its gas-guzzling V6 engine is no longer relevant. As a result, you’re much better off buying one of these modern alternatives.

Buy a Chrysler Pacifica instead

The closest thing you can get to a new Grand Caravan in 2023 is the Chrysler Pacifica. Although it’s evolved far past the old Dodge, the Pacifica is from the same automotive brand, Stellantis, and its roots grew from the Dodge minivan. According to Edmunds, the Touring base model starts at $38,690 for 2023. One other model, the Touring L, starts below $45,000, just under $43,000. Fortunately, this minivan is lightyears ahead of the Grand Caravan at this point.

First, the Pacifica has excellent standard equipment and technology. For example, a power liftgate, three-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, remote ignition, a 10.1-inch infotainment system, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, just to name a few. Additionally, it uses a 3.6-liter V6 engine making 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Chrysler minivan averages 20 mpg combined but also comes with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It gets 30 mpg combined and can drive 32 miles on all-electric power.

The Honda Odyssey is a Grand Caravan alternative

Next, another Dodge Grand Caravan alternative for under $45,000 is the 2023 Honda Odyssey. In the lineup, three trims fall under the price mentioned above. The base model EX is just $38,635, while the EX-L starts at $41,705. Finally, the mid-range Sport model starts at $42,505. Whichever trim level you prefer, each is an excellent alternative to the discontinued Dodge minivan.

The Odyssey uses a 3.5-liter V6, good for 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, it averages 22 mpg for combined highway and city driving. However, the Honda model excels regarding standard equipment. It has a rear seat reminder system, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated mirrors, forward collision mitigation, lane departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

Great Dodge Grand Caravan alternatives under $45,000

In conclusion, although the Dodge Grand Caravan was discontinued following the 2020 model year, alternatives under $45,000 are still available. Finding a used minivan at this price is easy. However, few remain that are affordable as new vehicles. Models like the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica offer many of the same features and amenities as the Grand Caravan, plus significant technological improvements, fuel economy, performance, and more.