The Chrysler Voyager III 3.3 V6, produced between 1995 and 2000, represented a significant iteration of Chrysler’s popular minivan offering. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Voyager III lineup, this variant aimed to balance affordability with a respectable level of performance and family-friendly features. It was primarily marketed towards North American families seeking a spacious and practical vehicle for daily transportation and longer journeys. The Voyager III, built on the NS platform, was a key player in the highly competitive minivan segment during the late 1990s, competing with models like the Dodge Caravan, Ford Windstar, and Honda Odyssey.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Voyager |
| Generation | Voyager III |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 V6 (158 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.3 l/100 km (13.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 158 Hp @ 4700 rpm |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 3250 rpm (202.83 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EGA |
| 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 capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2485 kg (5478.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1439 l (50.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 4733 mm (186.34 in.) |
| Width | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2878 mm (113.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| 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 III 3.3 V6 was the EGA engine, a 3.3-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilized a 60-degree V-configuration, contributing to a relatively smooth power delivery. The EGA engine featured a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The engine’s valvetrain employed two valves per cylinder (two intake, two exhaust), a common design for engines of this era. The 3.3L V6 produced 158 horsepower at 4700 rpm and 275 Nm (202.83 lb-ft) of torque at 3250 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, providing drivers with a degree of control over the engine’s power band. The transmission was designed to handle the engine’s torque output and deliver reasonable fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3 V6 with the five-speed manual transmission offered a reasonably engaging driving experience for a minivan. Acceleration to 60 mph took approximately 10.8 seconds, which was adequate for merging onto highways and passing slower traffic. The gear ratios were tuned to prioritize everyday drivability, with a focus on providing sufficient torque for comfortable cruising and hauling passengers. Compared to the base 2.4L four-cylinder engine, the 3.3 V6 provided a noticeable increase in power and responsiveness. However, it didn’t offer the same level of performance as the higher-end 3.8L V6 option. The manual transmission allowed for more driver involvement and control, but it also required more effort in stop-and-go traffic compared to the available automatic transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Voyager III 3.3 V6 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a cassette player, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, leather upholstery, and a power sunroof. The Voyager III prioritized practicality and comfort, offering a spacious interior with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. The third-row seating could be folded flat or removed entirely to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Voyager III 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 quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, providing responsive and easy steering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler Voyager III 3.3 V6 was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable price. However, some reviewers noted that the 3.3 V6 engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Compared to the base 2.4L engine, the 3.3 V6 offered a significant improvement in performance, but it came at a higher price. The 3.8L V6 offered even more power, but it was considerably more expensive. Fuel economy was average for a minivan of its size and class, with the 3.3L V6 achieving around 17.3 l/100 km in urban driving and 9.3 l/100 km on the highway.
Legacy
The Chrysler Voyager III 3.3 V6 has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with many examples still on the road today. The EGA engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues. Common problems include oil leaks, coolant leaks, and occasional sensor failures. The five-speed manual transmission is also generally reliable, but it may require occasional servicing. In the used car market, the Voyager III 3.3 V6 represents a good value for buyers seeking a spacious and practical minivan at an affordable price. Its combination of comfort, practicality, and reasonable performance makes it a popular choice for families and budget-conscious buyers.
