2008 Chrysler Town & Country Flex Fuel

Could we treat a minivan as a car, with its car-based foundation, car-like comfort and ride, and more amazing electronics than an upscale sedan? Consider the minivan pluses: Extra elbow-room inside. Sliding side doors that can open the interior to the world. Low load floor that makes it easy to load or unload people or packages. But when there's the ability to cozy up to an E85 Ethanol pump for refueling, including it in our Green Car Buyer's Guide was a no-brainer. We couldn't resist.

Chrysler Town & Country Interior

For 2008, Chrysler's Town & Country (plus its sibling Dodge Grand Caravan) affirms its spot as the acknowledged minivan champ with its newest round of firsts in this fifth generation, more contemporary looking redesign. (RTM acknowledged its supremacy when it won RTM's 2008 ICOTY Truck of the Year award in January, 2008.) Tops among 35 overall changes are the Swivel 'n Go second row seats that swing around 180 degrees to convert the rear area into a kind of kitchen/den spot with a removable center table for playing games, snacking or having a cozy chat (or occasional spat among adolescent travelers). Dual drop-down video screens can play different DVDs or tap into three satellite TV kids channels to help restore the peace.

Up in front, adults can hear their own music choices through a separate audio channel while dual zone temperature controls and available first and second row heated seats keep them comfy. A voice activated navigation system has real time traffic access to avoid congestion ahead. Pinpoint lighting highlights the revised interior. Second row seats in Stow 'n Go models fold into the floor. Side curtain airbags are among standard safety features, and rear camera and back-up warning system are available.

There are five current models, with short-wheelbase models discontinued. The LX model's flex-fuel capable 3.3-liter, V-6 produces 175 horsepower and estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for a base price of $22,825.