Plymouth Voyager is a nameplate for a range of vans that were marketed by Plymouth from 1974 to 2000. One of the few light trucks marketed by the division, the Voyager was initially a full-size van, later becoming one of the first minivans successfully marketed in North America.
96-678: For its first generation, the Voyager was a full-size van, serving as the Plymouth counterpart of the Dodge Sportsman (renamed Dodge Ram Wagon for 1980). For 1984, the Voyager was reintroduced as a minivan, becoming a divisional counterpart of the Dodge Caravan . For 1987, the model line was expanded with the extended-wheelbase Plymouth Grand Voyager and the luxury-trim Chrysler Town & Country for 1990. Three generations of
192-400: A 198 cubic-inch Slant-6 along with a 225 cubic-inch Slant-6 and a 318 cubic-inch V8 . For 1972, the 198 was dropped with a 360 V8 becoming a second optional V8. For 1976, B200 and B300 vans gained the option of big-block 400 and 440 cubic-inch V8s. A three-speed manual was standard, with the options of a 4-speed manual (added in 1976 ) and a 3-speed automatic. During its production,
288-540: A "Marginal" rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 's 40 mph offset test. The structural performance and restraints were graded "Acceptable", but the foot injuries were very high. In the NHTSA crash tests, it received 4 stars for the driver and front passenger in the frontal impact. In the side-impact test, it received 5 stars for the driver, and 3 stars for the rear occupant, and resulted in
384-537: A change that would prove beneficial to Chrysler, the government reclassified the Sportsman passenger van as a truck (instead of a passenger car), substantially increasing the ability of the company to meet CAFE implementation. After 1980, production ended at Saint Louis North Assembly (retooled to produce the Chrysler K cars ), with all production subsequently sourced from Pillette Road Truck Assembly. For 1980,
480-634: A factory customization package called the "Street Van" package. This was advertised alongside the Lil' Red Express and Warlock trucks as "Adult Toys." The Street Van package consisted of a "Street Van" logo on the passenger and driver's side door in lieu of the Tradesman logos, chrome trim on the grille and windshield, simulated wood grain inlays in the steering wheel horn cover and passenger-side glare shield, five-slot chrome wheels or white spoked "off-road" type wheels, chrome front and rear bumpers, chrome trim on
576-638: A fuel leak that could cause a fire hazard. Following the retirement of the Plymouth brand after the 2000 model year, the Voyager nameplate was continued by the Chrysler division. While used by all exported Chrysler minivans since 1988, in North America, the Chrysler Voyager served as the lowest-trim Chrysler-brand minivan. Offered only in a short-wheelbase configuration, the Voyager continued with matte-black bumpers and exterior trim. Following
672-479: A lower height (though taller than a station wagon, the design would be easily accommodated within a standard-height garage). Also, the smaller vans were intended primarily to carry people, not cargo, so design and comfort were prioritized over payload. The Ford project led to the 1973 Ford Carousel , a running prototype deriving its body and chassis from the Ford Club Wagon then in development for 1975;
768-579: A lower roofline. Lowered to a height of approximately six feet, the Carousel was designed with a height lower than the 6'4" Volkswagen Microbus. The Carousel prototype adopted its powertrain from the Econoline and the Country Squire, using a 460 V8 and Ford C6 3-speed automatic transmission. The prototype Ford Carousel is a five-passenger vehicle; a flat-folding rear seat (to match the height of
864-529: A model family that collectively rank as the 13th best-selling automotive model line worldwide. The Plymouth Voyager minivan was assembled by Chrysler at its Windsor Assembly facility in Windsor, Ontario, Canada; from 1987 to 2000, the Voyager was also assembled at Saint Louis Assembly in Fenton, Missouri (North plant from 1987 through 1995; South plant from 1996 until 2000). The full-size Plymouth Voyager van
960-406: A prototype vehicle that was developed by Ford in 1973. A derivative of the third-generation Ford Econoline/Club Wagon , the Carousel explored a number of the concepts that 1980s American-market minivans later put into production, serving as an alternative to both full-size station wagons and passenger vans. Called a "garageable family van", the Carousel featured two-box design (as opposed to
1056-539: A rebranded Fiat Ducato . Built on the B platform (later AB), the Dodge full-size vans entered production for the 1971 model year. Using a one-welded-piece "Uniframe" design, the platform was lighter and stronger, giving a lower cargo floor than previous American designs. While at the expense of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), the resulting lower center of gravity improved handling versus competing products with full frames. Produced over three distinct generations,
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#17327717717821152-409: A redesign with all-new trim and seats, with the dashboard redesigned to increase parts commonality with newer Chrysler vehicles (Dodge would use this design through 1997). 1979 brought a taller, longer hoodline and a larger grille (though large-block V8 engines were retired by Chrysler), and redesigned headlamp clusters (in contrast to Dodge, the Voyager was fitted with four headlamps as standard). With
1248-399: A running prototype ready for production approval, potentially for a 1975-1976 launch. While winning the support of Henry Ford II , the Carousel faced internal opposition from other Ford executives, who feared that an unproven vehicle design would have potentially threatened sales of the (highly profitable) Ford LTD Country Squire and Mercury Colony Park . After the 1973 energy crisis and
1344-414: A safety upgrade, outboard seating positions received 3-point seatbelts for 1992. For 1994, the model line underwent its most substantial revision since 1978. Distinguished by new front sheetmetal (adopting a grille styled in line with the redesigned Dodge Ram pickup trucks), the body shell underwent structural enhancements to improve crash protection. To modernize its appearance, exterior chrome brightwork
1440-491: A single motion. Additionally, seatbacks were designed to fold forward. Seat roller tracks were permanently attached to the floor and seat stanchions were aligned, facilitating the longitudinal rolling of the seats. Bench seat stanchions were relocated inboard to reduce bending stress in the seat frames and allowing them to be lighter. The 1996-2000 Dodge Grand Caravan (twin of the Voyager/Grand Voyager) received
1536-448: A sizable cargo area in the rear. The latching mechanisms for the benches were very intuitive and easy to operate. On base models, the front buckets were low-back items, upholstered with plain cloth or vinyl. On SEs, the buyer could choose between low-back buckets in deluxe cloth or high-back buckets in upgraded vinyl. LEs came standard with high-back front buckets, upholstered in either luxury cloth or luxury vinyl. In 1985 and 1986, there
1632-609: A station wagon, the rear door of the Carousel was equipped with a tailgate and retracting rear window. In line with the Club Wagon, the Carousel was equipped with front "captain's chairs". As a prototype, the Carousel adopted components from other Ford vehicles, including its dashboard from the Thunderbird, interior elements from the LTD Brougham (along with wheelcovers). In 1973, the Carousel had been fabricated into
1728-470: A tent that attached magnetically to the side of the vehicle allowing access in and out of the sliding side door. For 1987 the six- and eight-passenger options were withdrawn, leaving seating for five standard and seven optional on the base and SE, and seating for seven with high-back front buckets standard on the LE, Grand SE, and Grand LE. The deluxe cloth upholstery was now standard on base and all SE models, with
1824-467: A vertical one. The interior underwent a major revision with an all-new dashboard, trim, and seats; upgraded interior controls were now shared with Chrysler cars. In another revision, smaller engine covers increased space for front-seat passengers. The extended-length Maxivan/Maxivan was now a 26-inch extension, with the Maxiwagon receiving wraparound corner windows to improve visibility. During
1920-430: A wide array of power-operated features. In later years various trim packages were offered on SE models. The "Sport Wagon" package available from 1993 until 1995 featured accent color (gray) bumpers and molding , fog lamps, and special aluminum wheels. The "Rallye" package offered in 1995, took the place of the departed LX model. It was more luxury-oriented, with lower body two-tone paint — regardless of upper body color,
2016-541: Is unknown) would have slotted between the Ford LTD Country Squire and the Ford Club Wagon in terms of size and cargo capacity. The Ford Carousel derived its chassis from the third-generation Econoline/Club Wagon (then in development) with a 124-inch wheelbase length (the standard wheelbase length for the Econoline from 1975 to 1987). The Carousel was styled with its own body, distinguished by
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#17327717717822112-612: The Dodge B-series ) is a range of full-size vans that were produced by Chrysler Corporation from the 1971 to 2003 model years. Replacing the Dodge A100 , the Ram Van transitioned to a front-engine drivetrain configuration. Mostly offered as a cargo van and a passenger van, the model line was also initially offered as a cutaway van chassis . The B-series van line was produced across 32 years of production, making it among
2208-483: The Volkswagen Microbus had established popularity, designers sought to develop a safer and more practical vehicle. To utilize then-existing Chrysler powertrains, a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout was selected. In 1972, designers began developing clay models of a potential exterior design (along with interior layouts). However, the Chrysler small van project was shelved, as Chrysler management cited
2304-579: The "sailboat" Plymouth grille emblem and new badging in script font afterward. The Voyager retained the base, SE, and LE trims from its predecessor. To reduce model overlap, the LE trim was discontinued in the United States (in favor of an expanded Town & Country range). To allow the Plymouth brand to remain competitive, the Rallye option package was introduced on the SE trim; along with exterior badging,
2400-541: The 127-inch wheelbase, the front passenger door and the rear side doors are separated by a filler panel (with a small window), with all body lengths (including the Maxiwagon) sharing the same side glass. The side windows are smaller in size, sharing a beltline with the front door glass. Sharing its powertrain with the Dodge D-series pickup truck (redesigned for 1972), the van line was initially released with
2496-472: The 1983 model year, Plymouth discontinued the full-size Voyager van, transferring the nameplate to its 1984 minivan. As the Trail Duster had been discontinued after 1981, the full-size Voyager would become the final full-size truck offered by the Plymouth brand. During the early 1970s, Ford and Chrysler had begun work on smaller passenger vans as "garageable vans"; the vehicles were intended to feature
2592-614: The 2001 introduction of the RS-generation minivans, the Voyager was distinguished by a winged Chrysler emblem atop a black plastic grille (a shape adopted by the later PT Cruiser ). For 2004, Chrysler discontinued the Voyager in the United States and Canada, replacing the model line with the Dodge Caravan and a short-wheelbase Town & Country (the Voyager remained in Mexico through 2007). In markets outside of North America,
2688-533: The 3.9 L V6, 5.2 L V8, and 5.9 L V8 from the 1994 model revision, a 3-speed automatic was paired with the V6 and a 4-speed automatic was paired with the V8 engines. Dodge vans, particularly Tradesman vans from the 1971–1977 model years, were very popular as the basis for many custom vans during the custom van craze that occurred during the mid- to late 1970s and early 1980s. Dodge capitalized on this craze, creating
2784-741: The Aerostar shared many components with the Ford Ranger light pickup truck. Foregoing the previous two-box design, in a design similar to the European Ford Transit , the Aerostar used a one-box design with the hood and windshield sloped at a similar angle. After the 1997 model year, the Aerostar was discontinued; Ford had largely replaced by 1995 with the Ford Windstar and the Mercury Villager (the latter built in
2880-509: The B-series van utilized the majority of body sheetmetal from 1971 to 2003. Alongside passenger and cargo vans, the model line also served as a basis for cutaway chassis during the 1970s, serving both commercial markets and as a basis for recreational vehicles. Though popular in the latter market, Chrysler Corporation would end production of that design as a consequence of its late 1970s financial difficulties. The relatively limited changes for
2976-538: The B-series. A factory-produced cutaway van fitted with a cube van rear body, the Kary Van was produced in 10- and 12-foot lengths and two widths (derived from single- or dual-rear-wheel axle configuration). Derived from the B300 Tradesman, the cutaway body of the Kary Van would also serve as a basis underpinning bodies for Type C recreational vehicles during the 1970s. In 1979, Chrysler ended production of
Plymouth Voyager - Misplaced Pages Continue
3072-645: The B150, the Mini-Ram was a higher-trim passenger van with a larger fuel tank. For 1984, the Dodge Mini Ram and the Plymouth Voyager were retired from the B-series line, as both nameplates became part of the Chrysler minivan line; Plymouth would not again offer a full-size truck prior to its discontinuation. For 1986, the grille and badging trim were revised in line with Ram pickup trucks. In
3168-404: The Carousel was restyled with its own body, lowered to a height of approximately 6 feet. Though supported by both Lee Iaccoca and Henry Ford II, internal opposition from other Ford executives led to the cancellation of the Carousel project during 1974. At the same time, Dodge Truck Engineering began design work of its own "garageable van" (to market a small van as a practical second car). Though
3264-641: The Chrysler K-cars was offered in the Voyager for the 1987 model year and remained the base engine until mid-1987. Alongside the 2.2 L, an optional Mitsubishi 2.6 L engine was available producing 104 hp (78 kW). At launch, the Voyager's low horsepower to weight ratio had not been much of a concern. Its main competitors were the Toyota Van and the Volkswagen Vanagon , both of which offered similar performance. In mid-1987,
3360-413: The Dodge Caravan. For 1998, the third-generation B-series van was released. The most substantial revision of the model line since 1971, the body structure was upgraded to improve crash protection. Along with further reinforcement of the bodyshell, the powertrain was relocated further forward in the chassis (though wheelbases remained carryover), requiring a longer hood and front fenders. Alongside
3456-472: The Mitsubishi V6 increased output to 142 hp (106 kW). In 1990, a new 150 hp (112 kW) 3.3 L V6 was added to the option list. Sales of the 2.5 turbo dwindled as a result, and it was dropped at the end of the year. Both a three-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission and a five-speed manual were available with all inline-four engines , including the turbocharged 2.5 L (this
3552-526: The Rallye offered interior content featured in LE-trim Voyagers and Caravans. For 1998, the Rallye trim was renamed Expresso. Third generation Voyagers and Grand Voyagers were equipped nearly identically to their Dodge counterparts, save for front fascias, badging, and the wheels on LE-trim vans, which are shared with the Town & Country. However, to maintain its position as the entry-level minivan,
3648-588: The Tradesman replaced the rear side windows with metal panels and was fitted with a flat rear load floor. After 2015, the Ram ProMaster City (based on the Fiat Doblò ) replaced the C/V Tradesman. Rebadged models, mostly from Japanese or Korean manufacturers – Rebadged Chrysler/Plymouth models for external markets Ford Carousel The Ford Carousel (also spelled Carrousel ) is
3744-489: The Tradesman was offered strictly as a cargo van, the Sportsman was offered in three distinct trims: Sportsman, Custom Sportsman, and Royal Sportsman, with the latter rivaling the Dodge Royal Monaco station wagon in equipment and trim. Along with its highly sloped hoodline and short front fenders, this generation of the B-series van is distinguished by several exterior design features. On passenger vans with
3840-585: The Trail Duster was derived from the Dodge Ramcharger . In contrast to Dodge, Plymouth only marketed the Voyager as a passenger van; as with the Sportsman, the model line was offered with seating options for up to 15 passengers (depending on body length); the 18-inch longer Extended Body Voyager was derived from the Dodge MaxiWagon. 1974-1977 Plymouth Voyagers were visually similar to their Dodge counterparts, centering Plymouth badging within
3936-545: The Voyager and Caravan saw significant changes in body trim and feature content. Distinguished by a dark gray egg-crate grille (a body-color grille became an option in 1998), the Voyager used matte gray bumpers across all trim levels with matte gray side moldings. Before the calendar year 1996, the NS Voyager was produced with the Pentastar grille emblem and rear badging carried over from the previous model year, shifting to
Plymouth Voyager - Misplaced Pages Continue
4032-458: The Voyager followed its Dodge counterpart through a two-year transition of the model line into its second generation. 1978 brought major structural changes, as a redesigned B-pillar on long-wheelbase models saw the deletion of the filler panels between the front doors and side doors (on the driver side, one fewer window); On extended-length vans, the body was fitted with wraparound rear corner windows to improve rear visibility. The interior underwent
4128-524: The Voyager received minor cosmetic updates as well as the May 1987 introduction of the Grand Voyager, which was built on a longer wheelbase adding more cargo room. It was available only with SE or LE trim. First-generation Voyager minivans were offered in three trim levels: an unnamed base model, mid-grade SE , and high-end LE , the latter bearing simulated woodgrain paneling. A sportier LX model
4224-568: The Voyager was never produced with automatic headlights, fog lights, power driver's seat and power mirror memory, or auto-dimming rearview mirrors. All-wheel drive was also discontinued in some markets. The vinyl woodgrain-appearance side paneling was no longer available, as the new side sheet metal was no longer flat. Third generation Voyagers introduced a new system of rear seats to simplify installation, removal, and re-positioning— marketed as "Easy-Out Roller Seats". All Voyagers and Grand Voyagers were equipped with this feature. When installed,
4320-522: The Voyager's headlamps and taillights. In Mexico, the Voyager was sold as a Chrysler and shared the chrome waterfall grille with the Town & Country. This generation of vans brought additional innovations, including: The turbocharged engine and Convert-A-Bed feature were dropped. The 1996 Plymouth Voyager was redesigned from the ground up. The previous K-car automobile platform and architecture were replaced with modern components and utilized Chrysler's cab-forward design. The third generation redesign
4416-542: The base 2.2 L I4 was replaced with a fuel-injected 2.5 L I4, which produced 100 hp (75 kW), while the Mitsubishi G54B I4 was replaced with the new fuel-injected 3.0 L Mitsubishi V6 producing 136 hp (101 kW) in March of that year. A turbocharged version of the base 2.5 L producing 150 hp (112 kW) was available in 1989 and 1990. Also in 1989, revisions to
4512-486: The body height of most versions of the Club Wagon were to be nearly 7 feet tall, having only several inches of clearance through an average garage door opening; the increased size decreased the functionality as a personal vehicle. In 1972, Lee Iacocca directed the Ford Light Truck design studio to create a "garageable van" derivative of the "Nantucket" program under the "Carousel" codename. Along with lowering
4608-422: The chassis upgrades, the interior underwent its first major redesign since 1978. Coinciding with its relocation forward, the engine cover was reduced in size, increasing space both between the front seats and for both front-seat passengers. The dashboard was redesigned, both to allow for the introduction of dual airbags and shared componentry with contemporary Chrysler vehicles. The front doors were distinguished by
4704-562: The collapse of Chrysler Europe, the model line continued to be manufactured by Renault, which phased out the Dodge branding entirely after 1987. After 1993, Renault phased out the model line in favor of its own Renault Master . In 2012, Chrysler's Ram brand revived the Tradesman nameplate as the Dodge Grand Caravan C/V cargo van was rebranded as the Ram C/V Tradesman. Sold only as a two-passenger cargo van,
4800-466: The configuration, the base model could seat up to six, the SE could seat up to eight, and the LE could seat up to seven. The two bench seats in the rear were independently removable (though not foldable), and the large three-seat bench could also be installed in the second-row location via a second set of attachment points on the van's floor, ordinarily hidden with snap-in plastic covers. This configuration allowed for conventional five-passenger seating with
4896-476: The deletion of the front vent windows, with the sideview mirrors relocated in their place (shared with the Dodge Ram / Dodge Dakota , bringing power-operated mirrors for the first time). To free up interior cargo space, the spare tire was moved from the interior to an underfloor location. Through its production, the third-generation van saw few functional changes following its 1998 introduction. Carrying over
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#17327717717824992-580: The development of the Chrysler minivans for the 1984 model year. While the overall construction of the 1984 Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan would differ greatly from the Ford Carousel (in their basis upon the Chrysler K-car compact sedan), they would follow a similar two-box layout, marketed as family vehicles with smaller garage footprints than full-size station wagons. At the same time Chrysler commenced minivan production, Ford revisited
5088-481: The exception of its Plymouth badging, the Voyager was essentially indistinguishable from its Dodge Royal Sportsman counterpart. For 1981, the Plymouth Voyager gained a degree of brand differentiation as Dodge dropped the Sportsman/Tradesman branding in favor of Dodge Ram Wagon/Van, featuring large RAM badging on the door. In contrast, the Voyager retained the badging introduced in 1979. Following
5184-428: The final full-size van line to standardize automatic transmissions. In 1991, Chrysler began development of a CNG-fueled version of the Ram Van, using the 5.2 L V8. After a short initial prototype production period, the variant was launched into larger-scale production for 1992; approximately 2,000 were produced primarily for fleet sales. From 1994 to 1998, Chrysler continued development with CNG powertrains using
5280-714: The first mass-produced vehicles to include dedicated cup holders . Original commercials for the 1984 Voyager featured magician Doug Henning as a spokesperson to promote the Voyager "Magic Wagon's" versatility, cargo space, low step-in height, passenger volume, and maneuverability. Later commercials in 1989 featured rock singer Tina Turner . Canadian commercials in 1990 featured pop singer Celine Dion . 1984-1986 Voyagers could be equipped for five, six, or seven passengers, with an eight-passenger variant available only in 1985. Five-passenger seating, standard on all trim levels, consisted of two front bucket seats and an intermediate three-passenger bench seat. In 1985, on base and SE models,
5376-410: The first-generation vans saw gradual changes added each year. For 1972, front disc brakes were added along with full chrome door handles (replacing black push buttons). For 1973, electronic ignition replaced the previous points-type system and power brakes became standard. For 1974, a redesigned plastic grille was added (moving the Dodge lettering to the hood). To better match its Ford and GM competitors,
5472-514: The front axle forward allowed for a substantial increase in interior space. Dodge introduced the Tradesman and Sportsman in two wheelbases: 109 inches and 127 inches. Initially introduced in two body lengths, an extended-length "Maxivan/Maxiwagon" variant was introduced during 1971. Consisting of an 18-inch rear body extension, the Sportsman Maxiwagon could be fitted with four rows of rear seats, allowing for up to 15 passengers. While
5568-436: The front buckets could be replaced by a 40/60 split three-passenger bench seat, bringing the total number of occupants to six. Seven-passenger seating was an option on SEs and LEs, with dual front buckets, an intermediate two-passenger bench, and a rear three-passenger bench. Eight-passenger seating was available on SE models only, with both the additional middle two-passenger bench and the three-passenger front bench. Depending on
5664-513: The gauges, smaller chrome side-view mirrors, patterns and plans to create custom interiors, and membership in the "Dodge Van Clan." For 1976 and 1977 only, the YH 3 Street Van could be ordered with a single driver seat, no dash pad, plain steering wheel, and Street Van door decal delete. The decals were placed in the glovebox at time of manufacture. Most of these were sent to conversion companies to be customized to customer specification. This package
5760-605: The grille (a design shared by Fargo vans and 1971-1973 Dodges). Dependent on body size, the Voyager was sold in PB100, PB200, and PB300 series. In 1976, the Voyager was joined by the Voyager Custom and Voyager Sport (to better match its Dodge counterpart). For 1977, the single-panel rear door (introduced in 1975 as an option) became standard (trading places with the two-panel rear door). The rear seat mountings were redesigned, allowing for easier removal. For 1978 and 1979,
5856-463: The idea of a garageable van. In 1984, the company revealed the Ford Aerostar ; much like the Carousel, it was a prototype of an intended production vehicle. In mid-1985, the Aerostar commenced sales in production form. While fuel economy had played a key role in the demise of the Carousel, it would become a major factor behind the design of the Aerostar. In place of the full-size van platform,
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#17327717717825952-540: The interior, including the dashboard controls and instrument cluster from the Plymouth Reliant. The model line was designed with a passenger-side sliding door (like a full-size van), but its front-wheel drive chassis allowed for a lower floor height (closer to a sedan/station wagon); the rear door used a one-piece liftgate, similar to a hatchback or smaller station wagons. The Voyager was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1985. For 1987,
6048-472: The lack of funds and that it was a design that had no competition from either Ford or GM. At the end of 1977, Chrysler started development on a new small van project that would ultimately become the Chrysler minivans. Following the firing of both Lee Iacocca and Hal Sperlich from Ford, the two joined Chrysler in similar capacities during 1978. Beginning life as a modified version of the Dodge Omni ,
6144-525: The last two years of its existence, Fargo offered a rebadged variant of the Tradesman and Sportsman in Canada for 1971 and 1972 only. Plymouth also received a rebadged variant of the Sportsman, called the Voyager for the 1974 model year. While never as popular as the Dodge version, Plymouth marketed the Voyager in this format through 1983, after which the nameplate was transferred to the new minivan that
6240-399: The load floor) was developed for the vehicle. As part of its development, several interior configurations were designed, including two rear bench seats and side-facing perimeter seats. To further attract buyers of station wagons, the roofline of the Carousel was styled with glass (in line with the mid-1950s Chevrolet Nomad ); the exterior was fitted with simulated woodgrain siding. Similar to
6336-593: The longest-lived platform designs in American automotive history. Much of the exterior and chassis underpinnings saw only gradual changes during their entire production, with three distinct generations developed. Alongside its use by Dodge, the full-size van range saw rebranding during the 1970s for both Fargo Trucks and Plymouth (marking the debut of the Plymouth Voyager nameplate). For much of its entire production run, Chrysler produced B-platform vans at
6432-479: The lower body was painted "Driftwood Beige" — silver aluminum wheels, and special badging. The font first used for the Rallye's badging was adopted for all of Plymouth's badging from 1996 onward. Interiors were more differentiated in this generation than on the first with a redesigned dashboard for 1994 featuring a passenger-side front airbag. and a seating package, marketed as the "Quad Command" seating package, available on SE, LE, and LX models. Quad command replaced
6528-501: The luxury vinyl optional on SEs. On LEs, luxury cloth came standard and for the first time, leather seats were available on the LE models. For the first three years of production, two inline-4 engines with 2 barrel carburetors were offered. The base 2.2 L was from the Chrysler K-cars and produced 96 hp (72 kW) horsepower. The higher performance fuel-injected version of the 2.2 L engine later offered in
6624-515: The model line across its production made the Dodge Ram van popular with fleet buyers, service companies, and upbuilders because of the compatibility of components across various model years. In two size extremes to the market segment, Dodge was the first American manufacturer to popularize extended-length passenger vans, with the 1971 "Maxiwagon" introducing 15-passenger seating. Conversely, the Ram van
6720-518: The model line received a sliding door; initially offered on Maxivans/Maxiwagons, the configuration later became an option for the entire model line. For 1975, an optional single-piece rear door became an option for Sportsman vans; the side-opening door remained unique to the B-series line through the end of its production. 1976 saw the launch of the Street Van customization package for Tradesman vans (see below), with minor interior revisions; in 1977,
6816-583: The model line were sold until the closure of the Plymouth brand during the 2000 model year. The Voyager nameplate has also seen use multiple times under the Chrysler brand. From 1988 to 2016, the Chrysler Voyager nameplate was used for export-market minivans. Following the demise of Plymouth, Chrysler reintroduced the Voyager as a Chrysler for North America, discontinuing the model after 2003. The Chrysler minivans (including versions sold under Chrysler, Ram, Lancia, and Volkwagen nameplates) are
6912-551: The modern minivan segment in the United States, followed by the introduction of the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari and the Ford Aerostar . For 1984, the Plymouth Voyager name returned, introduced as the Plymouth version of the Chrysler minivans, joining the all-new Dodge Caravan. Though the two vehicles shared a distinct model architecture, the minivans shared powertrains with the K-Cars, along with portions of
7008-544: The nameplate remained in use through 2016 for all export versions (as both a Chrysler and a Lancia). After skipping the 2008-2020 fifth generation, the Voyager nameplate returned to use in North America for 2020 production, slotted below the Chrysler Pacifica and effectively replacing the Dodge Grand Caravan . Dodge Ram Van#First generation (1971–1978) The Dodge Ram Van (also known as
7104-624: The new vans adopted a front-wheel drive layout. The models grew in size as designers determined the Omni/Horizon chassis would be too small with an underpowered powertrain. Following the project approval, the "T-115" small van program was funded through a large portion of the Chrysler federal loan guarantees. The Chrysler minivans launched a few months ahead of the Renault Espace (the first MPV/minivan in Europe)— effectively creating
7200-596: The now-demolished Pillette Road Truck Assembly plant in Windsor, Ontario , Canada; prior to 1980, the model line was also produced at Saint Louis North Assembly ( Fenton, Missouri ). In 2003, the Dodge Sprinter (a rebranding of its Mercedes-Benz namesake ) was introduced, replacing the B-series van entirely from 2004 to 2009. Since 2014, the Ram division has offered the ProMaster to the full-size van market,
7296-566: The one-box configuration of the Volkswagen Microbus ) and three-row forward-facing seating. Designed and styled by Dick Nesbitt (designer of the Ford Mustang II ), the Carousel prototype was built for Ford by Carron & Company of Inkster, Michigan . In 1972, Ford truck designers had begun final design work on the "Nantucket" design program, the codename for the 1975 Ford Econoline/Club Wagon. While moving its engine several inches forward would increase passenger space significantly,
7392-459: The option was shelved. For 1980, the 3-speed column-shifted manual was retired in favor of the overdrive-equipped 4-speed (floor-shifted) manual. For 1988, the standard transmission became a 5-speed manual (with the 3.9 L V6); a 4-speed automatic became optional for the V6 and the 5.2 L V8, with a heavy-duty 4-speed automatic for the 5.9 L V8 added in 1990. As part of the 1994 update, manual transmissions were discontinued; Dodge became
7488-476: The powertrain line. Following the retirement of the big-block 400 and 440 V8s by Chrysler, the 360 V8 now served as the largest-displacement engine (doing so through 2003). The long-running 225 Slant-Six returned as the standard engine (later advertised in its 3.7 L metric displacement); in 1988, it was replaced by a 3.9 L LA V6 adopted from the Dodge Dakota. The 318 (later 5.2 L) returned as
7584-460: The recession of the mid-1970s, Ford was forced to cut back on new vehicle development. In 1974, Henry Ford II called for the end of the Carousel program, as it did not replace any existing Ford or Lincoln-Mercury model line. In 1978, Lee Iacocca was fired from Ford; several months later, Director of Product Planning Hal Sperlich also left the company. Soon after, both executives were hired in similar roles at Chrysler Corporation. This would lead to
7680-399: The roof of the Club Wagon passenger van approximately one foot (to six feet tall, closer in size to the first-generation Econoline ), another design objective of the Carousel program was to give the vehicle more "automotive-like" styling. For its marketing, "Carousel" was intended for marketing to buyers of full-size station wagons and passenger vans; a production vehicle (a production name
7776-399: The second- and third-row seats (either bucket or bench seats) are latched to floor-mounted strikers. When unlatched, eight rollers lifted each seat, allowing it to be rolled fore and aft. Tracks had locator depressions for rollers, thus enabling simple installation. Ergonomic levers at the seatbacks released the floor latches single-handedly without tools and raised the seats onto the rollers in
7872-410: The second-row bench with two individual bucket seats with a center aisle to the third-row bench. Interior options varied with trim levels and packages. Cloth seating was standard on all models; leather seating was a standalone extra-cost option on LE and LX models. Only badging and minor cosmetics differentiated the Voyager from its Dodge Caravan rebadged variant. The Chrysler Town & Country shared
7968-422: The single-panel rear door became standard on all Sportsman vans. For 1978, the B-series van began a two-year transition towards its second generation. Much of the body behind of the rear doors was revised, deleting the filler panel of long-wheelbase vans; the side and rear windows now extended slightly below the beltline of the front doors; and the taillamps were enlarged, switching from a horizontal orientation to
8064-469: The standard V8 option, adopting fuel injection for 1988 (the 5.9 L V8 doing so for 1989). For 1992, the "Magnum" generation of the 3.9 L and 5.2 L engines was introduced, featuring multiport fuel injection; the 5.9 L followed suit for 1993. For 1979, Dodge planned to offer the Mitsubishi 4.0 L (243 CID) inline-six diesel engine (offered as an option on Dodge pickup trucks), but
8160-510: The variant in response to its financial difficulties. The Dodge 50 series is a light commercial vehicle that was built by Chrysler Europe (and later Renault Trucks ) from 1979 to 1993. Using the cab assembly of the 1971–1978 Dodge Kary Van, the Dodge 50 mated the American-designed cab with a British-designed chassis. The model line was powered by Peugeot/Renault gasoline engines and Perkins 4-cylinder diesel engines. Following
8256-503: The windows were revised, with sliding side doors receiving a single-pane window (in line with the single-panel rear door). For 1981, the model line underwent a major rebranding. In line with its pickup truck counterpart (which became the Dodge Ram pickup ), the Dodge Tradesman and Sportsman nameplates were retired in favor of Dodge Ram Van and Wagon; the B-series nomenclature remained, revised to B150, B250, and B350. Derived from
8352-412: Was a rare combination). V-6 engines were only offered with the venerable fully hydraulically operated TorqueFlite , until the computer-controlled Ultradrive 4-speed automatic became available in 1989. The Ultradrive offered much better fuel economy and responsiveness, particularly when paired with the inline-four engine. The Plymouth Voyager was modified for 1991 with new sheet metal. The S platform
8448-493: Was added in 1989, sharing much of its components with the Caravan ES. Safety features included 3-point seat belts for the front two passengers and lap belts for rear passengers. Standard on all Voyagers were legally mandated side-impact reinforcements for all seating front and rear outboard positions. Safety features such as airbags or ABS were not available. The Voyager, along with the Dodge Caravan , are considered to be
8544-499: Was also a five-passenger version with a back seat that could be folded flat with the pull of a handle into a bed that filled the rear compartment from the back of the front seats to the rear. This option was known as the Magic Camper. The Magic Camper back seat had an extra rear-facing cushion that formed the back-most section of the bed when folded flat and the seat, though very heavy, was removable. The Magic Camper option included
8640-616: Was assembled from 1974 until 1983 at the Pillette Road Truck Assembly in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant in Fenton, Missouri. For the 1974 model year, Plymouth debuted light trucks under its own brand (for the first time since 1942), introducing the Voyager full-size van and the Trail Duster SUV. The Voyager was a Plymouth counterpart of the Dodge Sportsman van, while
8736-400: Was available from the 1976 model year until it was discontinued in the early 1980s.This was not an overly popular option from the factory, and Street Vans are somewhat rare. The chrome-plated metal Street Van emblems found on later Street Vans (emblems through mid-1978 were stickers) in good shape are quite valuable to collectors or restorers. For 1973, Dodge introduced the Kary Van variant of
8832-404: Was built on the new Chrysler NS platform and included a driver's-side sliding door, a minivan first. The Voyager was listed on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1996 and 1997. In a shift from previous minivans, the third-generation Voyager was marketed as the entry-level Chrysler minivan rather than as a direct counterpart of the Dodge Caravan. While sharing the same bodyshell,
8928-529: Was introduced for 1984 as a rebadged Dodge Caravan . For 1979, Dodge completed the two-year transition to its second-generation B-series vans, with the front portion of the body undergoing a redesign. The front fascia received a taller hoodline and grille (styled in line with Dodge Ram pickup trucks), with parking lamps wrapping into the front fenders. Higher-trim Sportsman vans were fitted with four rectangular headlamps while lower-trim versions (and Tradesman cargo vans) were fitted with dual round headlamps. In
9024-460: Was reduced (limited to the bumpers and grille). While the dashboard introduced for 1978 remained carryover, the interior saw revisions to the door panels and seats. In a branding change, the van line adopted the nomenclature of the Dodge Ram pickup trucks, becoming the B1500, B2500, and B3500. For 1995, a driver-side airbag was added. For the second-generation Ram vans, several changes were made to
9120-461: Was still used, though renamed the "AS platform". These were the last Voyagers that were derived from the Chrysler K platform . Trim levels were carried over from the previous generation. 1991 Voyagers were available in base, mid-grade SE , high-end LE , and high-end LX . The LX which was available only on short-wheelbase Voyagers, was marketed as a sport-luxury minivan and came with the most standard equipment including alloy wheels, fog lamps , and
9216-613: Was the final full-size short-wheelbase van, as the 109-inch wheelbase B1500 was offered through 2003. From 1971 to 1978, Dodge produced two models of the B-series van: the Dodge Tradesman cargo van and the Dodge Sportsman passenger van. In line with the D-series pickup truck (which underwent a final redesign for 1972), the van was marketed with three payload series: ½ -ton "100", ¾ -ton "200", and 1-ton "300". Only five inches longer than its A100/A108 predecessor, moving
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