The Plymouth Grand Voyager II, specifically the 3.0 V6 variant producing 152 horsepower, was a key model in Plymouth’s minivan lineup from 1996 to 2000. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it slotted between the base 2.5L engine and the more powerful 3.5L V6 options. This generation, internally known as the NS, represented a significant update to the original Grand Voyager, offering increased space, improved safety features, and a more refined driving experience. The Grand Voyager II competed directly with popular minivans like the Dodge Caravan/Voyager, Ford Windstar, and Honda Odyssey in the North American market, aiming to provide a comfortable and practical transportation solution for families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Plymouth |
| Model | Grand Voyager |
| Generation | Grand Voyager II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 (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) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 152 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 51.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 239 Nm @ 4000 rpm (176.28 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2972 cm3 (181.36 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.1 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1669 kg (3679.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4140 l (146.2 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 | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, 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 S |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grand Voyager II 3.0 V6 was the 3.0-liter (2972 cc) Chrysler 3.0L V6 engine. This engine, part of Chrysler’s OHV engine family, featured a 60-degree V-angle. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and power delivery. The engine employed a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design, operating two valves per cylinder. The 3.0L V6 produced 152 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 176.28 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine was a 3-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient shifting. This transmission was chosen for its ease of use and suitability for family-oriented driving, although it lacked the responsiveness of a manual transmission or more modern automatic gearboxes.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0L V6 automatic Grand Voyager II offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and highway merging, but it wasn’t designed for quick bursts of speed. The 3-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, had relatively wide gear ratios, which could sometimes result in the engine feeling strained during acceleration or on inclines. Compared to the base 2.5L four-cylinder engine, the 3.0L V6 provided a noticeable improvement in power and responsiveness. However, it didn’t match the performance of the optional 3.5L V6, which offered significantly more horsepower and torque. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but it wasn’t particularly engaging for driving enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Voyager II 3.0 V6 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like leather seating, a power driver’s seat, upgraded sound systems, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, sunroof, and upgraded interior trim packages. The interior design was functional and family-friendly, with ample storage compartments and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Voyager II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension consisted of coil springs at both the front and rear, offering a comfortable ride quality. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. Steering was handled by a hydraulic power rack and pinion system, providing light and easy steering effort. The vehicle rode on 205/75 R14 tires, which offered a good balance of ride comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Plymouth Grand Voyager II 3.0 V6 was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and practical features. However, some reviewers noted that the 3-speed automatic transmission felt dated compared to the newer 4-speed automatics offered by competitors. Fuel economy was average for its class, with the 3.0L V6 achieving around 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Compared to the 2.5L base model, the 3.0L V6 offered a significant improvement in performance, making it a more appealing option for families who frequently carried passengers or cargo. However, the 3.5L V6 provided even more power and refinement, albeit at a higher price point.
Legacy
The 3.0L Chrysler V6 engine, when paired with the 3-speed automatic transmission, proved to be a reasonably reliable powertrain. While not without its quirks, such as potential for oil leaks and occasional transmission issues, it generally provided years of dependable service. Today, the Grand Voyager II 3.0 V6 can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. Its spacious interior and practical features continue to make it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s age and potential maintenance needs. Parts availability is generally good, but finding qualified mechanics familiar with older Chrysler minivans may require some effort.
