Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager Offer Global Appeal

• New minivan for international markets

The global appeal of the new Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager will be further strengthened in 2004 with a host of significant new product enhancements and design refinements. Enhancements include the availability of a new 2.8-liter common rail turbo diesel (CRD) engine which has been mated to an automatic transmission for the first time on Voyager and Grand Voyager.

The new 2.8 CRD engine is the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine in its class. The engine delivers an impressive 110 Kw (150 bhp) of power at 3,800 rpm and best-in-class torque figures of 360 Nm (266 lb.-ft.) at a low 2,100 rpm. In terms of fuel economy, the new 2.8-liter engine will return figures of below 9 liters per 100 km, which matches or surpasses its lower displacement competitors.

Chrysler Group engineers paid particular attention to ensuring excellent “launch ability,” the rapid take off from standstill. The accelerator pedal also features a kickdown detent that allows the driver to actively control the downshift of the transmission and the vehicle’s acceleration at higher speed.

“We are committed to providing our Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager customers with features that are tailored to meet their needs in markets outside North America,” says Thomas Hausch, Executive Director of International Sales and Marketing, Chrysler Group. “This new diesel powertrain and transmission – along with premium amenities, clever innovations and increased safety features – will reinforce Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager’s long-held position as the aspirational choice for minivan customers around the world.”

New safety features for international customers include a significantly improved passive restraint system. Three-row, A-to-D pillar side curtain air bags now provide full-length coverage for all three rows of seats, while a driver-side inflatable knee blocker and an improved seat belt alert further enhance driver and passenger safety. The Child Seat Anchor System (LATCH/ISOFIX) continues to be standard in the second seating row of all models.

The navigation system, which is currently an option in European markets, continues to be available on new Chrysler Voyagers.

For customers who prefer a manual transmission, a five-speed manual continues to be available, mated to DaimlerChrysler’s 2.5-liter CRD. Also available are the 3.3-liter engine teamed with an automatic transmission, while the 2.4-liter engine will continue to be available.

For international markets in 2004, Chrysler will offer two versions of its standard-wheelbase Voyager minivan, the SE and LX. Three versions of the extended-wheelbase Chrysler Grand Voyager minivan will be available, the SE, LX and the Limited version, which can be also equipped with all-wheel-drive. The new Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager will be introduced in markets outside North America in the second quarter of 2004. The overhead rail and park assist systems will also be introduced to minivans in markets outside North America in 2004. The Stow ‘n Go seating will be introduced to minivans in markets outside North America at a later date.

Chrysler’s minivans are now sold by authorized dealers in more than 100 countries.