Automatic Chrysler Voyager Takes Courage

2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-11-27 05:39

The revised Chrysler Voyager meets all the requirements that are placed on a van. The automatic version takes some getting used to.

Stefan Grundhoff

The Chrysler Voyager has been a best seller in the van market for years. In the 80s he was the founder of a new era of vehicles - the vans, which have meanwhile become an integral part of the market. But the pioneer of yore is getting on in years. Quality deficiencies and strong competition are making life difficult for the great American. Chrysler counteracts and adds: Especially the revised common rail diesel is supposed to boost sales thanks to the comfort automatic and economical consumption.

The new Voyager looks as good as ever. The latest facelift could have been a little bolder, but the family friend with the production site in Graz has always been one of the most attractive representatives in its class. The most important innovation is the four-speed automatic transmission, which is now available with the 2.8-liter diesel engine. The four-cylinder has an output of 110 kW / 150 PS and a powerful 360 Nm of torque, which is already available at 1800 rpm.

Switching stages can easily be mixed up

Just the thing for an automatic version. The driver initially wonders about the operation of the transmission. As in a US road cruiser or the Dash 8 taxi from the 1970s, the gears are engaged using a bulky steering column stalk. Only a small gear indicator in the odometer informs about the choice made. It is rustic when inserting the individual steps. The circuit is not very precise. One likes to confuse the switching levels D and L.

Technically, the four-speed automatic makes an aged impression. Especially in gears two and three, the transmission could be better matched to the high-torque engine. The automatic takes a lot of dynamism from the engine. Overtaking on the motorway takes courage. But a top speed of 180 km / h is always possible. In the practical test, the Voyager 2.8 CRD consumed an average of 9.5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers - a lot in this class. In addition, it does not meet the Euro 4 emissions standard without a particle filter.

The presentation of the 4.81 meter long front-wheel drive in the interior is more convincing. The space is huge. Those who want even more can opt for the 5.10 meter long Grand Voyager. But even the short version can shine with comfortable dimensions. Especially with six individual seats (440 euros surcharge), the American is the ideal touring limousine. There is a lot of space in the front and a clear dashboard. The cheap plastic armrests and the lack of adjustment options on the passenger side alone result in a deduction.

The trunk can be greatly enlarged

The large box between the seats, which can also be moved to the second row, is practical. In addition to various shelves, there is lighting and another 12-volt connection. We just miss a cooling option. The large sliding doors in the rear are a delight. They open electrically from the high-quality LX version. Dark panes (425 euros) are also recommended in view of the large windows.

In addition to the comfortable individual seats, the father of all vans has a lot of variability and a huge trunk. Depending on the seat configuration, between 660 and 3640 liters are available. They can be easily loaded via the powerful tailgate with a low loading sill. Removing the seats, on the other hand, could be easier.

The new Grand Voyager makes it easier. With the “Stow and Go” system, the seats can be lowered into the floor without a trace

Standard equipment is huge

The standard equipment of the Chrysler Voyager 2.8 CRD SE is befitting with automatic air conditioning, CD sound system, electric driver's seat and cruise control. Useful extras are a navigation system (1550 euros) and the non-standard fog lights. Otherwise, the safety equipment with front and full-length side airbags, knee airbags, ABS and traction control is up to date. ESP is not available and the extremely comfortably tuned American is not really missing.

The brakes have been reinforced. The rolling movements of the body and the imprecise steering are disturbing. The Chrysler Voyager 2.8 CRD costs 29,900 euros including automatic transmission.