The Chrysler Voyager II 3.3i Automatic, produced between 1990 and 1995, represented a significant offering in the burgeoning minivan segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the Voyager II lineup, it provided a balance between affordability and features, appealing to families seeking spacious and practical transportation. This variant utilized a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, offering a comfortable driving experience focused on usability rather than outright performance. The Voyager II, and the broader Chrysler minivan range, played a crucial role in establishing the modern minivan as a dominant force in the North American automotive market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Voyager |
| Generation | Voyager II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 i (163 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg, 25.9 UK mpg, 9.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp (98.5 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm (157.1 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 3750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1655 kg (3648.65 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2550 kg (5621.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 895 kg (1973.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 671 l (23.7 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3250 l (114.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 4525 mm (178.15 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2853 mm (112.32 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1578 mm (62.13 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| 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 | 205/70 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Voyager II 3.3i was the 3.3-liter (3301 cc) Chrysler LA V6 engine. This engine, part of the LA engine family, was a robust and relatively simple design, known for its durability. It featured a 60-degree V-angle, two valves per cylinder, and a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The 3.3L version utilized a 93mm bore and 81mm stroke. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing adequate, though not cutting-edge, performance. The engine produced 163 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission (typically the A727 or similar Chrysler-built unit). This transmission was a traditional hydraulic automatic, prioritizing smooth shifts and ease of use over outright efficiency or sportiness.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3i Automatic Voyager II offered a comfortable, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 12.1 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did contribute to a somewhat leisurely feel. The gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy and relaxed cruising, rather than quick acceleration. Compared to the available manual transmission or the more powerful 3.8L V6 options, the 3.3i Automatic felt noticeably slower. However, it excelled in providing a stress-free driving experience, particularly in city traffic. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, although it wasn’t designed for spirited cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Voyager II 3.3i Automatic typically included features such as air conditioning, power steering, power windows, and an AM/FM stereo. Upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded velour or leather available. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system (a popular choice for minivans), upgraded sound systems, and alloy wheels. The 3.3i trim level generally sat in the middle of the Voyager II range, offering a good balance of features and price. It was a step up from the base models, but lacked some of the luxury features found in the higher-end trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Voyager II utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent wishbone suspension at the front and a leaf spring suspension at the rear. The leaf spring rear suspension was a cost-saving measure, and while it provided adequate load-carrying capacity, it didn’t offer the same level of ride comfort as a fully independent suspension. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The steering was rack and pinion, with hydraulic power assistance for ease of maneuvering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Voyager II 3.3i Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and ease of use. However, some reviewers noted its relatively slow acceleration and somewhat dated interior design. Compared to other minivans of the era, such as the Dodge Caravan and the Ford Windstar, the Voyager II offered a competitive package in terms of price and features. Fuel economy was average for its class, around 21.6 US mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although the automatic transmission could be prone to issues if not properly maintained.
Legacy
The Chrysler Voyager II 3.3i Automatic, while not the most powerful or technologically advanced minivan of its time, remains a popular choice among used car buyers seeking a reliable and affordable family vehicle. The 3.3L LA V6 engine is known for its durability, and parts availability is generally good. While the automatic transmission requires regular maintenance, it is generally considered a robust unit. Today, these Voyagers are often found as budget-friendly transportation options, appreciated for their spaciousness and practicality. They represent a significant chapter in the history of the modern minivan, and a testament to Chrysler’s early dominance in the segment.
