The Chrysler Town & Country V, specifically the variant equipped with the 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 254 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Chrysler’s minivan lineup from 2008 to 2016. This generation (often referred to as the fifth generation) represented a significant evolution for the Town & Country, moving away from the cab-forward design of previous models and embracing a more contemporary, sculpted aesthetic. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level, this 4.0L V6 Automatic offered a balance of power, space, and features aimed at families seeking a comfortable and capable vehicle for both daily commutes and long road trips. It was part of the broader Chrysler minivan strategy, competing directly with models like the Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, and Toyota Sienna.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Generation | Town & Country V |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (254 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 254 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 351 Nm @ 4100 rpm (258.88 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 3952 cm3 (241.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15.4 l (16.27 US qt | 13.55 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2096 kg (4620.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2585 kg (5698.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 489 kg (1078.06 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 track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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 EER V6 engine, internally designated as the EGJ. This engine is a 60-degree V6, utilizing a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The multi-port fuel injection system delivers fuel directly to each intake port, optimizing combustion efficiency. The 254 horsepower output at 6000 rpm and 351 Nm (258.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4100 rpm provided adequate power for moving the relatively heavy minivan. The 6-speed automatic transmission, a Chrysler-developed unit, was chosen for its smooth shifting and ability to keep the engine within its optimal power band. This transmission featured a torque converter for smooth launches and a wide range of gear ratios to balance acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.0L V6 Automatic Town & Country offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided sufficient power for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, although it could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. Compared to the base 3.3L V6 engine, the 4.0L offered a noticeable improvement in performance, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. However, it didn’t match the quicker acceleration of the optional 3.6L Pentastar V6 that became available in later years. The gear ratios were tuned for everyday driving, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.0L V6 Automatic trim typically included features such as power windows, power locks, air conditioning, a CD player with auxiliary input, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the Touring and Limited, added features like leather upholstery, a premium sound system, power sliding doors, and a rear entertainment system. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and upgraded wheels. Safety features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and multiple airbags were standard.
Chassis & Braking
The Town & Country V utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. The front suspension featured MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension aimed to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. The hydraulic power steering provided a reasonably responsive feel, although it lacked the precision of some competitors. The relatively heavy curb weight of around 2096 kg (4620.89 lbs) meant that the braking system needed to work diligently to bring the vehicle to a stop.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Town & Country V for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available features. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials weren’t as upscale as those found in some competing minivans. The 4.0L V6 engine was considered adequate for most drivers, but it wasn’t the most powerful option available in the segment. Fuel economy was average for a minivan of its size and weight, with EPA estimates around 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Compared to the base 3.3L V6, the 4.0L offered a worthwhile performance upgrade, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy. The later introduction of the 3.6L Pentastar V6 ultimately superseded the 4.0L as the preferred engine choice for many buyers.
Legacy
The Chrysler Town & Country V 4.0L V6 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although like any vehicle, it’s susceptible to age-related issues. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and spark plug replacements. The 6-speed automatic transmission has generally held up well over time, but some owners have reported issues with the torque converter. In the used car market, these models represent a good value for families seeking a spacious and comfortable minivan. While not the most fuel-efficient or technologically advanced option available today, the Town & Country V 4.0L remains a practical and affordable choice for those needing a versatile vehicle for everyday transportation.
