The Plymouth Grand Voyager II 2.4 i 16V, produced between 1996 and 2000, represented a significant iteration of Plymouth’s popular minivan offering. Falling within the second generation of the Grand Voyager (designated NS), this variant was positioned as a mainstream option within the lineup, offering a balance of practicality, space, and affordability. It was built on the Chrysler NS platform, shared with the Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country, and aimed at families seeking a versatile and comfortable vehicle. The 2.4-liter engine and three-speed automatic transmission combination was a common configuration, designed for everyday driving rather than outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Plymouth |
| Model | Grand Voyager |
| Generation | Grand Voyager II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V (152 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 152 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 226 Nm @ 4000 rpm (166.69 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EDZ |
| Engine displacement | 2429 cm3 (148.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101 mm (3.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 670 l (23.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4880 l (172.34 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 5070 mm (199.61 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3030 mm (119.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil 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 | 205/75 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grand Voyager II 2.4 i 16V is the EDZ engine, a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating four valves per cylinder, which contributed to its 152 horsepower output at 5200 rpm and 226 Nm (166.69 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The three-speed automatic transmission was a Chrysler-sourced unit, designed for smooth and reliable operation. While not offering the quickest acceleration, it prioritized comfort and ease of use, particularly in city driving. This transmission was selected for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the target demographic of family buyers.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4-liter engine and automatic transmission combination in the Grand Voyager II delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, and passing maneuvers required planning. The three-speed automatic, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of more modern transmissions or even the available manual transmission options. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and low-end torque, making it suitable for everyday commuting and hauling passengers. Compared to the higher-output V6 engines offered in the Grand Voyager lineup, the 2.4L felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. However, it provided a more economical driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Voyager II 2.4 i 16V typically came standard with features expected of a family minivan in the late 1990s. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, often denoted by specific packages, added features like upgraded sound systems, alloy wheels, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, leather upholstery, and a sunroof. The interior design was functional and spacious, with seating for up to seven passengers. The second-row seats often featured a “Stow ‘n Go” system, allowing them to fold flat into the floor for increased cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Voyager II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with coil spring suspension at all four corners. The front suspension incorporated stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. The chassis was designed to accommodate the vehicle’s size and weight, providing a stable and predictable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Plymouth Grand Voyager II 2.4 i 16V was generally well-received as an affordable and practical family minivan. Critics noted its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the 2.4-liter engine was often criticized for its lack of power, particularly when compared to the V6 options. Fuel economy was rated at approximately 19.9 US mpg in the city and 25 US mpg on the highway. Compared to the V6-powered models, the 2.4L offered a lower purchase price and better fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the automatic transmission over time.
Legacy
The Plymouth Grand Voyager II 2.4 i 16V, while not the most powerful or technologically advanced minivan of its era, remains a popular choice in the used car market. The EDZ engine, when properly maintained, is known for its durability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of transmission issues and routine maintenance requirements. The Grand Voyager II’s spacious interior and practical features continue to appeal to families seeking an affordable and versatile vehicle. Its legacy lies in providing reliable transportation for countless families during the late 1990s and early 2000s, and its continued presence on the road is a testament to its enduring practicality.
