While there's plenty of oomph under the Town & Country's hood its 215-hp engine is held back with 1,941 kg (4,279 lb) to 2,105 kg (4,641 lb) of curb weight, depending on options. Still, get it up to highway speeds where weight isn't as much of a factor, and the 3.8-L OHV V6 has no trouble taking on big hills in the passing lane or not. While currently adequate I can't figure out why Chrysler has not replaced this dated 3.8-L OHV engine with the 300M's wonderful 253-hp 3.5-L 24-valve, DOHC V6. After all, it would offer substantially greater performance while silencing its more powerfully equipped Japanese competitors in an instant. My guess? It's on its way.

While the Dodge Caravan is lithe through the corners the heavier Town & Country doesn't feel quite as athletic. It's not bad or anything, but just biased toward comfort rather than speed. The 4-speed automatic is effortless in operation and shifts down quickly without drama. While front-wheel drive is standard all-wheel drive is available with the Limited package. Whether AWD or FWD, the Town & Country is capable of towing relatively light loads - 907 kg (2,000 lb) with AWD and FWD vans and 1,610 kg (3,550 lbs) or 1,724 kg (3,800 lbs) respectively with the optional trailer towing package. You'll appreciate the standard 4-wheel ABS brakes when towing as well.

Chrysler minivans come in two trim packages, LXi and Limited. Standard LXi features include power windows and door locks with remote keyless entry, dual power-sliding rear doors, a filtered 3-zone automatic climate control system with rear A/C and heat controls, deluxe insulation, leather-faced seats, a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with audio controls for the AM/FM/CD/cassette Infinity Acoustic sound system, a security system, dual folding power heated exterior mirrors, power front seats, overhead console, removable center console that can be replaced between the rolling and removable middle row captains chairs, rolling and removable 50/50 split tumble forward rear seats, a luggage rack, fog lamps and 16-inch aluminum wheels.