When consumers think of minivans, what comes to mind? If the Dodge Grand Caravan or the Chrysler Pacifica minivan was on the list then we’re on the right track, and it shouldn’t be too much of a surprise. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the automobile group that Chrysler and Dodge work under, is known as the grandfather of minivans, dating all the way back to Nov. 2, 1983 (before FCA existed) when the Plymouth Voyager rolled off the line at the Windsor Assembly. More than 30 years later, and the FCA has over half of the United States consumer market, 54-percent, purchasing Dodge and/or Chrysler minivans. Overall, FCA sells twice as many minivans as any other automaker on the market today, and after 35 years of sales, Fiat Chrysler just sold its 15 millionth minivan.

15 Million Milestone

“Reaching 15 million minivans sold isn’t just about hitting a number, it’s about the memories families have made and the children who have grown up driven to school or practice or on a family road trip in a Chrysler Pacifica or Pacifica Hybrid, Dodge Caravan or Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country or Voyager over the past three and a half decades…We continue to lead and innovate to keep our current minivan lineup the absolute best at hauling people and things and help this generation of owners make memories that will last a lifetime.” – Tim Kuniskis, Global Head of Alfa Romeo and Head of Passenger Cars – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America

Of course, it’s a large milestone, and how could it not? There 15 million units driving around the world are minivans with the Dodge or Chrysler badge. Although in recent years Chrysler dropped down to two vehicles, the automaker is steadily growing. As it currently stands, the FCA minivan lineup consists of the Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Chrysler Voyager, and Dodge Grand Caravan. The Chrysler Voyager is known as the lower-end trims of the original Pacifica with added accessibility options for the handicapped and elderly. Such additions included BraunAbility rear- and side-entry conversions, a wider entryway, more interior space, and an enhanced ramp securement system.

Still keeping it fresh, Chrysler has also recently unveiled the new Chrysler Pacifica Red S Edition. Oddly the color red has nothing to do with this appearance package, available in six exterior paint colors – Ceramic Grey Clear Coat (new), Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Coat, Billet Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, and Maximum Steel Clear Coat. The main changes are small, with the addition of a Red S liftgate badge and Black Noise Chrysler wing badges with Velvet Red insert and Gloss Black exterior finishes, 20-inch wheels with a Black Noise finish, Rodèo Red Nappa leather seats with Light Diesel Grey stitching and piping, and Silver Metal Brush hydro bezels on the instrument panel and door trim. There are some technology upgrades too, with the Advanced SafetyTec Group, a 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, KeySense technology, and Uconnect Theater. With the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica minivan starting at starting and MSRP of $33,495 (plus destination fee), consumers can get the Red S Edition package for an additional $3,995.

Here at NowCar, we’re always looking for ways to find you the best deal. With the holidays coming up, treating yourself and your family to a minivan is a thoughtful and safe gift for years to come. Shop for a car online with NowCar to save money and find your new minivan.

Photo Source/Copyright: FCA Media