2007 / 2008 Chrysler Town and Country

Besides a new mix of colors, Chrysler's 2007 Town & Country minivan is identical to the 2006 model. The Town & Country and its platform siblings, the Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan, are now in their seventh year. Expect a redesigned model in the near future.

Stow 'n Go seats fold flat into the floor for the second and third rows; the seats can be folded down with one hand in as little as 30 seconds. Other innovative features include an available media player that plays CDs, MP3s and DVDs.

Despite having more than a dozen competitors — many of which pack stronger engines and more safety features — the Town & Country continues to be a popular choice among minivan buyers. It's available in standard-length base as well as extended-length LX, Touring and Limited models.

Exterior
Standard-length models ride a 113.3-inch wheelbase, while long-wheelbase minivans have a 119.3-inch wheelbase.

A winged Chrysler badge spans the full width of the grille, which has four horizontal chrome bars. Sculpted headlights and round fog lamps are installed. Touring and Limited minivans get a roof rack and 16-inch cast-aluminum wheels, while other versions ride on 15-inch steel wheels. For 2007, the new colors are Cognac Crystal Pearl, Marine Blue Pearl Coat and Modern Blue Pearl Coat.

Interior
All Town & Country minivans seat seven occupants. Bucket seats are installed in the second row, and the third row features a 60/40-split bench seat that can be folded partially or completely.

With Stow 'n Go seating, the headrests don't need to be removed in order to fold down the seats. When the second-row seats are upright, two storage bins with integrated lids provide additional storage space. Standard cargo net bags adjust to fit each storage bin. Split-bench tailgate seating is made possible by flipping the third-row seat rearward.

The second-row seats move fore and aft about four inches, recline up to 40 degrees and have 13 positions. The third-row seatbacks recline up to 39 degrees and feature 12 positions. By pulling a single strap, the second-row seat tumbles out of the way for entry to the third row.

Three adjustable, removable bins fit into an overhead rail system, and one can hold an optional DVD entertainment system's screen. Cargo volume behind the rear seat is 15.3 cubic feet for standard-length models and 26.4 cubic feet for long-wheelbase minivans.

Under the Hood
Standard-length models and the long-wheelbase LX version use a 180-horsepower, 3.3-liter V-6. Touring and Limited long-wheelbase models get a 3.8-liter V-6 that generates 205 hp and 240 pounds-feet of torque. All Town & Country minivans use a four-speed automatic transmission.

Safety
Antilock brakes are standard, but an electronic stability system is not available. Optional side curtain airbags protect occupants in all three rows of seats. An inflatable knee blocker helps protect the driver. LATCH child-safety seat anchors are installed, and rear parking assist is optional.

Driving Impressions
Chrysler and Dodge minivans have for years set the minivan standard in ride comfort and driving ease. Despite increased competition, these models still serve as benchmarks. Performance is energetic with the 3.8-liter engine, and the Town & Country's light steering is appropriate. Automatic-transmission shifts are prompt and easy. These minivans excel in seat comfort and available space.

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