The Chrysler Town & Country IV, specifically the 3.8 V6 AWD Automatic variant, represents a significant iteration in Chrysler’s long-running minivan lineage. Produced from 2001 to 2007, this generation (often referred to as the NS platform) aimed to blend family practicality with a more refined driving experience and available all-wheel drive. This particular configuration, with its 3.8-liter V6 engine and automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground in the Town & Country lineup, offering a balance between affordability and capability. It was positioned above the base 3.3L V6 models and below the more premium trims with optional features like integrated child safety seats and upgraded entertainment systems.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Generation | Town & Country IV |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (218 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.9 l/100 km (16.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 218 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 332 Nm @ 4000 rpm (244.87 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EGH |
| 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 | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.64 l (13.36 US qt | 11.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 566 l (19.99 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4754 l (167.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 5095 mm (200.59 in.) |
| Width | 1996 mm (78.58 in.) |
| Height | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3030 mm (119.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Town & Country variant is the 3.8-liter (3778 cc) EGH V6 engine. This engine, a member of Chrysler’s robust “third-generation” 3.8L family, featured a 90-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 responsiveness. The engine produced 218 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 244.87 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s valvetrain employed two valves per cylinder, operated by a single overhead camshaft. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 42RE or 45RFE), chosen for its smooth operation and suitability for family hauling. The all-wheel-drive system was an active system, engaging the rear wheels when traction was lost, providing enhanced stability in inclement weather.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8L V6 and four-speed automatic combination in the Town & Country IV delivered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.5 seconds, making it competitive with other minivans of the era. The automatic transmission was tuned for comfort and fuel economy, resulting in relatively smooth shifts but lacking the responsiveness of a manual transmission. The AWD system added weight, slightly impacting acceleration and fuel economy, but significantly improved handling and traction, particularly on slippery surfaces. Compared to the base 3.3L engine, the 3.8L offered noticeably more power for highway merging and passing maneuvers. However, it didn’t possess the sporty feel of some competitor’s V6 options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8L AWD Town & Country typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the Touring and Limited, added features like leather upholstery, alloy wheels, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras included a DVD entertainment system, sunroof, and upgraded safety features. The interior design was functional and family-oriented, with ample storage compartments and comfortable seating for seven passengers. Stow ‘n Go seating, a Chrysler innovation, was not available on AWD models due to the space requirements of the rear axle.
Chassis & Braking
The Town & Country IV utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The AWD system added to the vehicle’s overall weight, requiring a slightly more robust braking system compared to front-wheel-drive models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler Town & Country IV, particularly the 3.8L AWD Automatic variant, was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive. However, some reviewers noted the somewhat dated interior design and the lack of a more modern transmission with more gears. Compared to competitors like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, the Town & Country offered a more traditional minivan experience, with a focus on practicality and affordability. Fuel economy was average for the segment, with the AWD system reducing mileage compared to front-wheel-drive models. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the transmission and electrical systems.
Legacy
The 3.8L V6 and 4-speed automatic powertrain combination in the Town & Country IV proved to be relatively durable, with many examples still on the road today. While not known for exceptional fuel efficiency, the engine’s robust design and readily available parts make it a relatively affordable option for budget-minded buyers. In the used car market, these Town & Country models are often sought after for their spaciousness, all-wheel-drive capability, and relatively low price point. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential maintenance issues, such as transmission problems and corrosion, particularly in areas with harsh winters. The Town & Country IV, and this specific variant, solidified Chrysler’s position as a major player in the minivan segment, offering a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and capability.
