The Chrysler Grand Voyager III, specifically the 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic variant, was produced between 1996 and 2000. This model represented the third generation of Chrysler’s popular minivan, known for its spacious interior and family-oriented features. In the North American market, the Grand Voyager competed directly with the Dodge Caravan, Ford Windstar, and Honda Odyssey, offering a compelling blend of space, comfort, and available all-wheel drive. The 3.8L V6 with an automatic transmission occupied a mid-range position in the Grand Voyager lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base 3.0L engine while remaining more affordable than the higher-trim options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Voyager |
| Generation | Grand Voyager III |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (178 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19 l/100 km (12.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg) |
| 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 | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 178 Hp @ 4300 rpm |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 3150 rpm (239.71 lb.-ft. @ 3150 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EGA |
| Engine displacement | 3778 cm3 (230.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 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 | 2035 kg (4486.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2605 kg (5743.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 670 l (23.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4880 l (172.34 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 5070 mm (199.61 in.) |
| Width | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3030 mm (119.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic 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 Grand Voyager III 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic is the 3.8-liter (3778 cc) EGA V6 engine. This engine, a member of Chrysler’s well-regarded LA engine family, featured a 90-degree V-angle and a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and power delivery. The valvetrain employed two valves per cylinder, operated by a single overhead camshaft. The 42RE four-speed automatic transmission was paired with the engine, chosen for its durability and suitability for the vehicle’s weight and intended use. This transmission featured electronic control for smoother shifting and improved fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system was typically a viscous coupling system, automatically engaging the rear wheels when slippage was detected at the front, providing enhanced traction in inclement weather.
Driving Characteristics
The 178 horsepower and 239.71 lb-ft of torque produced by the 3.8L V6 provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the Grand Voyager. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 12.3 seconds, making it suitable for everyday driving and highway merging. The automatic transmission, while smooth, was geared more towards fuel efficiency than outright performance. The 4×4 system added weight, slightly impacting acceleration and fuel economy, but significantly improved handling and stability in slippery conditions. Compared to the base 3.0L engine, the 3.8L offered a noticeable improvement in power, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. However, it didn’t match the responsiveness of the higher-output engines available in other Grand Voyager trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8L V6 4×4 Automatic Grand Voyager typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels added features like leather seats, upgraded sound systems, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. Optional extras included rear entertainment systems, power sliding doors, and upgraded suspension packages. The interior design was functional and family-focused, with ample storage compartments and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Voyager III utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured an independent wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed a solid axle with leaf springs. This setup prioritized ride comfort and load-carrying capacity over sporty handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. Steering was provided by a hydraulic power rack and pinion system, offering responsive and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Grand Voyager III 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive. However, some reviewers noted that the 3.8L engine could feel strained when fully loaded or climbing steep hills. Fuel economy was also a concern, averaging around 12.4 mpg in the city and 20.6 mpg on the highway. Compared to the 3.0L base engine, the 3.8L offered a worthwhile performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 4×4 system added to the cost and complexity, but provided a significant advantage in regions with harsh winters or challenging road conditions.
Legacy
The Chrysler Grand Voyager III 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The 3.8L V6 engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues such as oil leaks and timing chain wear. The 42RE automatic transmission is also generally reliable, but can be prone to overheating if subjected to heavy use. In the used car market, these Grand Voyagers are often sought after by families looking for an affordable and spacious minivan with all-wheel drive. While not the most fuel-efficient or performance-oriented option, the 3.8L V6 4×4 Automatic Grand Voyager remains a practical and versatile choice for those needing a capable and comfortable people mover.
