The Chrysler Grand Voyager II, specifically the 3.3 V6 (163 hp) variant, was produced between 1990 and 1995. This generation represented a significant update to Chrysler’s popular minivan line, offering increased space, improved features, and a more refined driving experience. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Grand Voyager II lineup, it slotted between the base 2.5L engine and the more powerful 3.8L V6 options. The Grand Voyager II, and the Dodge Caravan which shared many components, were key players in establishing the modern minivan segment in North America, offering a practical and family-oriented alternative to station wagons and larger SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Voyager |
| Generation | Grand Voyager II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 V6 (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 21.4 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 9.1 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 3750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 3750 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 oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2550 kg (5621.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 790 kg (1741.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 328 l (11.58 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3990 l (140.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 4896 mm (192.76 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3031 mm (119.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 205/70 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand Voyager II variant is the 3.3L V6 engine, designated as the 3.3L VH engine. This engine, part of Chrysler’s family of V6s, featured a 60-degree V-angle and a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and power delivery. The engine produced 163 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The 4-speed automatic transmission, a Chrysler-built Torqueflite A727 variant, was the sole transmission option for this configuration. This transmission was known for its durability and smooth shifting, although it lacked the fuel efficiency of more modern automatic transmissions. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and ease of maintenance over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3L V6 with the automatic transmission provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.3 seconds, making it suitable for everyday driving and family transportation. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel economy, resulting in a relatively relaxed driving experience. Compared to the 2.5L four-cylinder engine, the 3.3L offered significantly more power and torque, making it easier to accelerate with a full load of passengers and cargo. However, it fell short of the performance offered by the 3.8L V6 variants, which provided quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel. The front-wheel-drive configuration offered predictable handling, but lacked the sporty dynamics of rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.3L V6 automatic Grand Voyager II typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels offered options like upgraded sound systems, leather upholstery, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. The Grand Voyager II was designed with family comfort in mind, offering features like sliding rear doors for easy access and a spacious interior with ample storage compartments. The specific trim level determined the level of interior refinement and available features.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Voyager II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent wishbone suspension in the front and a rigid axle suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride, but wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, providing relatively light and easy steering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.3L V6 Grand Voyager II was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It offered a good balance of power, fuel economy, and features at a competitive price point. Compared to the base 2.5L engine, the 3.3L provided a noticeable improvement in performance, making it a popular choice for families who frequently carried passengers or cargo. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and that the overall driving experience wasn’t as engaging as some of its competitors. Fuel economy was rated at around 21.4 US mpg combined, which was typical for a minivan of its size and era.
Legacy
The Chrysler Grand Voyager II 3.3L V6 automatic powertrain proved to be relatively reliable, with many examples still on the road today. The 3.3L VH engine is known for its durability, and the Torqueflite A727 transmission is also considered to be a robust unit. However, like any vehicle of its age, regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term reliability. In the used car market, these Grand Voyagers are often sought after by those looking for an affordable and practical family vehicle. While not a performance icon, the 3.3L V6 Grand Voyager II played a significant role in popularizing the minivan segment and remains a recognizable and functional vehicle.
