The Plymouth Voyager II 3.3i V6, produced between 1997 and 2000, represented a significant iteration of the Voyager minivan, a mainstay of the American family vehicle market. This variant, equipped with the 3.3-liter V6 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground within the Voyager II lineup, offering a balance between affordability and performance. It was part of the second generation of the Voyager, which shared a platform with the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Caravan, collectively known as the NS platform. The Voyager II aimed to provide a comfortable and practical transportation solution for families, competing directly with offerings from Honda, Toyota, and other minivan manufacturers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Plymouth |
| Model | Voyager |
| Generation | Voyager II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 i V6 (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 4850 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 3250 rpm (202.83 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 3301 cm3 (201.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1605 kg (3538.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4140 l (146.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4730 mm (186.22 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2880 mm (113.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Voyager II 3.3i was the 3.3-liter V6 engine, internally designated as the 3.3L EER. This engine was a member of Chrysler’s second-generation V6 family, known for its relatively simple design and durability. It featured a 60-degree V-angle, two valves per cylinder, and a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 160 horsepower at 4850 rpm and 275 Nm (202.83 lb-ft) of torque at 3250 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 42RE) was chosen for its smooth operation and ease of use, catering to the target audience of family drivers. While not a performance-oriented setup, the combination provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 8.9:1 allowed it to run reliably on regular unleaded gasoline.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3L V6 and four-speed automatic transmission delivered a comfortable, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles, but it wasn’t a quick minivan. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth shifts rather than aggressive performance. Compared to the higher-output 3.8L V6 option, the 3.3L felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. However, the 3.3L offered better fuel economy and a slightly more refined driving experience due to its lower engine speed at cruising speeds. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, although it wasn’t particularly sporty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Voyager II 3.3i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the SE and EX, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded sound systems, cruise control, and power seats. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, leather upholstery, and a sunroof. The interior design was functional and family-oriented, with ample storage compartments and comfortable seating. The Voyager II prioritized practicality and convenience over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Voyager II utilized a body-on-frame construction, which provided a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup prioritized ride comfort over handling precision. The braking system featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, providing relatively light and easy steering effort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Voyager II 3.3i was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable minivan option. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliable powertrain. However, it was often criticized for its lack of performance compared to some of its competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the 3.8L V6-powered Voyager II, the 3.3L offered a lower purchase price and slightly better fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 3.8L, however, provided significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The Plymouth Voyager II 3.3i V6 has become a relatively affordable and readily available used car. The 3.3L V6 engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, although it is not without its potential issues, such as oil leaks and intake manifold gasket failures. The four-speed automatic transmission is also generally reliable, but may require servicing as it ages. Today, these Voyagers are often sought after by families looking for a practical and inexpensive transportation solution, or by those seeking a classic American minivan from the late 1990s. While not a collector’s item, the Voyager II 3.3i remains a testament to the enduring popularity of the minivan segment.
