The Chrysler Town & Country V, specifically the variant equipped with the 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 200 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of the American minivan market from 2008 to 2016. Representing the fifth generation of the Town & Country (and mechanically identical to the Dodge Grand Caravan), this configuration occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering a balance between affordability and capability. It aimed to provide a comfortable and practical family vehicle without the premium price tag of higher trim levels or the fuel economy focus of the base four-cylinder engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Generation | Town & Country V |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (200 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 152.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 312 Nm @ 4000 rpm (230.12 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 |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.2 l (16.06 US qt | 13.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2042 kg (4501.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2585 kg (5698.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 543 kg (1197.11 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 671 l (23.7 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 5144 mm (202.52 in.) |
| Width | 1953 mm (76.89 in.) |
| Height | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3078 mm (121.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Town & Country variant is the 3.8-liter EGH V6 engine. This engine, a member of Chrysler’s well-established third-generation 3.8L family, utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. The OHV design, while simpler than overhead cam configurations, contributed to the engine’s durability and relatively low manufacturing cost. The 60-degree V-angle provides a good balance between smoothness and compactness. The 6-speed automatic transmission (often the 62TE) was chosen for its smooth operation and improved fuel efficiency compared to older 4-speed automatics. This transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch to reduce slippage and improve highway fuel economy. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for everyday driving, prioritizing acceleration from a stop and comfortable cruising rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 200 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque provided by the 3.8L V6 and 6-speed automatic offered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically took around 9-10 seconds. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration or when descending hills. Compared to the base 3.3L V6, the 3.8L offered a noticeable improvement in power, making it easier to carry a full load of passengers and cargo. However, it didn’t match the responsiveness of the higher-output 3.6L Pentastar V6 found in later models or the torque of the diesel options available in some markets. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but wasn’t particularly sporty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8L V6 automatic trim typically fell into the mid-range of the Town & Country lineup. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, a basic audio system with CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels added features like leather seats, a DVD entertainment system, power sliding doors, and upgraded audio systems. Optional extras for the 3.8L variant often included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The interior design was functional and family-oriented, with ample storage compartments and comfortable seating.
Chassis & Braking
The Town & Country V utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension consisted of independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. Rear brakes were typically discs, offering improved stopping power compared to drum brakes. All models were equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard. Steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Town & Country V with the 3.8L V6 for its practicality, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine felt underpowered when fully loaded or when climbing hills. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to the base 3.3L V6, the 3.8L offered a worthwhile performance upgrade for a relatively modest price increase. Compared to the more expensive 3.6L Pentastar V6, the 3.8L represented a more budget-friendly option for families who didn’t require maximum power. The 3.8L also offered a simpler and potentially more reliable powertrain compared to the more complex diesel options.
Legacy
The 3.8L V6 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powertrain when properly maintained. While not known for exceptional fuel economy, it offered a good balance of performance and longevity. In the used car market, Town & Country models equipped with the 3.8L V6 are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and practical minivan. Common maintenance issues include oil leaks, cooling system problems, and occasional transmission issues. However, these issues are generally well-documented and relatively inexpensive to repair. The Town & Country V with the 3.8L V6 remains a popular choice for families seeking a spacious and reliable vehicle.
