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It was obviously USED as the MSRP for a 2005 GC SXT was $26,995 when it came out and the 2004 GC SXT had a much higher MSRP.
I don't know how this will post but I'll give it a try. Here goes.
Customer Preferred Package 29P $3,495
No Charge DVD ($1,150) And
Power Liftgate
Power Sunroof
Rear Seat Video System
In-Dash 6-Disc CD/DVD Changer
2nd-Row Overhead 7" Video Screen
Wireless Headphones
Video Remote Control
Leather Trimmed Bucket Seats
Premium Two-Tone Seat Accents
Heated Front Seats
Power Front Seats
Driver's Adjustable Lumbar Support
Vinyl Door Trim with Map Pocket
Premium Group $1,235
Air Cond. w/3-Zone Auto Temp Control
Cabin Air Filtering System
Power-Adjustable Pedals
ParkSense(TM) Rear Back-up System
Vehicle Security System
Vehicle Information Center
Touring Suspension
Removable Center Front Seat Console $195
Infinity(TM) Speaker System $425
SIRIUS Satellite Digital Radio $195
1-Year Service Provided by SIRIUS
Call SIRIUS @ 888-539-7474
O/Head Rail & Bins Sys Delete Credit
DESTINATION CHARGE $680
TOTAL PRICE:* $32,570
Here's what I paid, some numbers rounded.
30,200 Invoice
1,500 Cash rebate
1,500 Chrysler financial rebate
500 Chrysler loyalty rebate
300 Dealer rebate
1,500 Trade-in
My out-the-door price was $27,250, which included sales tax of 8%.
Considering the options I got, I believe I did all right. I was planning on waiting until Christmas to purchase the vehicle, but after I saw the rebates and the 29P package, I figured what the heck....go for it now. And besides, my wife is crazy about it.
I checked the trade-in value and considering it's condition, that was the right price.
A deal is only as good as the rebates. You take the invoice, subtract all the rebates, that's pretty much the best price anybody can do. How was $19,995 possible? Thanks for your clarification.
Actually we do:
"Depreciation
This is the amount by which the value of a vehicle declines from its purchase price. The purchase price employed for new cars is the vehicle's True Market Value® price in your state ..."
TCO FAQ (The FAQ goes on to say the trade-in value is based on TMV, private party, 15k a year).
Steve, Host
This is a really well equipped minivan and still priced in the mid $20K range, with or without the trade, not including sales tax which varies from state to state.
When I was doing my research, the 29P package didn't show up on anyone's inventory from the Dodge site. Then one day, it just showed-up. I had absolutely no idea it even existed. That's why I posted the options on the vehicle. Maybe it will help someone that reads this board.
Edmunds needs an update on the pricing of this vehicle.
I like to stay on the low (but not stripper) price end as well. No sense dumping a huge amount of money into a depreciating asset. We are still driving a 1996 short wheel base Caravan SE Sport, that we bought new but a leftover in March 1997 (I like bargain leftovers!). It has about 79,000 miles and still running and looking good. We will probably keep it several more years, and by then DC will probably have a new generation out.
I think loaded/luxury vehicles are a product of the leasing/long financing mentality of a lot of car buyers these days. They start thinking "For just a few dollars a month more payments, I can get all these bells and whistles". But, those few dollars a month add up, and they end up having continuous car loan or lease payments forever, rather than buying rarely and driving it for ten years or so.
So, I have to rationalize the decision in my mind or believe me, it would wear on me. I'm driving an 11 year old vehicle. It sill looks great and drives good, but I sure would like a new one. The Chrysler 300C is the vehicle I really want. Maybe someday after I digest the chunk of money that I put down on the GC.
I would prefer having the nice 60/40 split, fold-into-the-floor 3rd row seats without having the StowNGo 2nd row seats. I think 2nd row fold into the floor seats is overkill and would have preferred a larger fuel tank.
The seats though are another subject. They are low-back so they can fit into the StowNGo compartment. In order to get comfortable in them, one HAS to move the headrest up. This is a must because the bottom of the headrest is on the seat in the down position and will stick you in your back if you don't move them up.
I agree with you. I believe the 2nd row seats should be regular captain chairs.
Also, the short wheel base versions are still available with full size Captains chairs in the second row.
Funny, our 1996 short wheel base Caravan has never been a source of toe space complaints from passengers in the second row or the third for that matter, though the third row is rarely used, I must admit. This is a short wheel base van, which should be quite pinched for space and it is not. Not a huge space available, but with the upright seats, you don't really need a lot of fore aft space between rows.
But you know, this is the only thing Chrysler features over the competition, so they will stay with all seats stow-n-go.
Perhaps in the next generation (2007 redesign??) Chrysler will have a wonderful van, well competing with the imports, then they will be able to eliminate the second row stowing seats and still be ahead of the game...
Who knows?
Of course if you're using the van for children with safety seats it shouldn't be a big problem.
1) Power accessory delay: When you shut off the engine, you still have 10 minutes to listen to the radio, open windows, and some other minor electronics. Of course, opening a door will cancel the delay feature. But in the T&C it will do the same for just about 30-40 seconds and then shut-off. Does it have a setting? Is 2005 the same, too?
2) Illuminated exit (if this is the right word): When you take out the keys of the ignition, the interior lamps comes on, to 'help' you exit. I'm so used to this feature, but the T&C don't have it. I would like to know if the 2005 T&C still does not have this feature.
My Windstar lease is almost over, and I'm thinking to replace it with a Chrysler/Dodge van. As a lease, I don't care about resale value and reliability since it's under warranty for the 3 years. Of course I don't want to sit at the dealer daily or weekly, but no van is that bad. Even my Windstar served me well, and I would even go with the Freestar if it would offer 60/40 rear folding seat, refined engine with better mileage.
So back to topic: Anyone with a 2005 Chrysler or Dodge minivan, can you please confirm my above concerns?
Thanks!
The "Illuminated Exit" feature exists. All the internal lights come on when you open the door and then begin automatically dimming to off at 10 seconds after door is closed.
C.B.
It also has illuminated exit, time delay headlights, key fob locking and unlocking, and triple zone temperature control. My LX is one of the least expensive T&C.
Businesses normally lease the cheapest, least equipped models. Does your T&C have bucket seats for 2nd row; 50/50 split and tumble 3rd row; Overhead console with compass/outside temperature and trip computer; and separately controlled temperature for driver, front passenger, and rear passengers with air conditioning vents in the ceiling above 2nd and 3rd rows and rear heater?
If NOT, it is definitely a "stripped down" model.
Now about the accessory delay, you agree that's just for about 40 seconds. In my Windstar it is 10 minutes, much more convenient. Not a deal breaker, though.
The headlight time delay is also very nice on the Chrysler vans. On the new Freestars, Ford introduced another good thing, when you press the unlock button on the remote, the "illuminated entry" feature turns the headlights on, too. So you can walk safely to your car in the dark. Chrysler still doesn't have that one. I guess every van has their own good things and shortcomings as well.
Both of these are minor features which sure wouldn't be a deal killer.
I prefer to have the interior lights come on when door is opened and go off when the door is closed as cars did in the olden days.
Every car today have it - interior lights come on when a door is opened and go off when it's closed.
The illuminated exit is just in addition of that.
In the older brochures ('02 and '03) Chrysler used to mention almost every detail. Not anymore! Only few exterior photos and stow-n-go seats.
Can somebody give me a link where I can see clear photos. Other minivans, especially the Ody and Sienna have tons of photos everywhere!
http://www.familycar.com/RoadTests/ChryslerTownAndCountry/Photos.- htm
link
Steve, Host
Door open and lights come on.
Door closed and lights go off immediately.
Everything is the exterior and stow-n-go. Wherever you're looking.
I looked on e-bay too. Not many 2005's there, but may help a bit. Thanks anyway.
Chrysler brochures have never contained the technical data found in both Odyssey and Sienna brochures and the Chrysler data is not organized as well for clarity.
The Odyssey brochure has too many exterior views that add nothing to providing me the information I want.
The Sienna has too many confusing options and many option groups are NOT even available for sale at the dealerships.
Buyers also preferred the Dodge Caravan by a wide margin over the Plymouth Voyager and the Dodge Grand Caravan over the Plymouth Grand Voyager.
At GM, buyers always preferred Chevrolet minivan label over Pontiac, Oldsmobile or GMC. Chevrolet has been perceived as being the lower price brand. At Ford, buyers also preferred the lower price Ford label over Mercury.
Do most people feel there is MORE value with Dodge than with Chrysler?
For 2005, the Dodge Grand Caravan SXT is a superior clone of the Chrysler Town & Country LX with more content and at a lower price (3.8L V6 vs 3.3L and Cast Wheels vs cheap plastic wheel covers).
Since I'm looking now to lease a new van to replace my Windstar, I was calling around and ask for prices (Price is my top priority here). I was told the Chrysler and Dodge minivans would be the best deal. Even the Freestars are priced higher (unless you take the leftovers from 2004).
So I tried my luck with a T&C Touring, and I asked to add the luxury package, b/c I need adjustable pedals (I am so used to that already in my Windstar) and the rear backup sensor, upgraded stereo and fog lights. - I was told that I need to get the 'leather' package first (which I hate) and add another $2000 something. So I said forget about it.
I went with Dodge Grand Caravan SXT w/ premium package (has all the above except for the Infinity stereo system which also requires leather - what's going on with these guys at Chrysler? Did they took a lesson from Toyota to make packages confusing, and require 20 features in order to get one other?) anyway, I got a better price on the Dodge (about $1,300 less).
Of course that T&C with Luxury package would be perfect for me - without the leather. I would love the better stereo, the exterior additions of body side cladding and some chrome, the nicer gauges inside, auto-dimming mirrors in and out. But if I have to take leather first, I am rather going to the Dodge Caravan.
Again, a message to all car manufacturers: Please leave 1) leather seats; 2) power sliding doors & Liftgate; 3) Navigation system; and 4) Rear DVD player STAND ALONE OPTIONS! that will satisfy most people! There are so many customers out there who love gadgets but not leather or don't need NAV systems (as they don't travel usually in unfamiliar places).
And especially the leather of the Chrysler/Dodge Caravan which is different than many other cars and feels like a school bus seat. If they would have butter-smooth leather like some other cars do have, I wouldn't mind to get it...
OK, I'm running out of (words) [time] - let me stop to talk that much. :-(
I do NOT want leather seats; power sliding doors & Liftgate; and Navigation. I also do NOT like the 2nd row "Stow-N-Go" seating.
That is why I prefer the 2005 Odyssey EX over the Grand Caravan SXT or T&C LX.
However, I do like my 2002 T&C LX complete overhead console with outside temp/compass and Trip Computer plus triple zone temperature control. Sadly, the 2005 Ody EX does NOT have the compass and trip computer. The Sienna options are an overpriced, sick joke.
They are also trained not to climb on the seats at all, especially with shoes. A big NO NO in my car. They know a car is not a playground, just a relaxing, loving place where they listen to some nice music or a conversation with their parents.
That's why my 2002 Ford Windstar lease is almost over, and my car still looks almost brand new, and many friends and relatives asked me recently "Is this a new car?", to which I answered "Yes, it was 3 years ago"! and that big WOW.... "it looks so good"...
So in my case I don't see the need for leather, especially that it's not comfy for the driver - although most leather seats are heated, but not cooled in hot summer days, and particular this Chrysler van leather is not comfortable at all. The 96-00 model years leather were much more smooth. But since 2001 it has been changed to a school-bus feel (IMO).
Anyway, if it is a stand-alone option as I mentioned above, it will be perfect for everybody. You take your choice and be happy.
I wouldn't trust anything to clean that off of cloth, either.
In my teenage years, a friend of mine threw up in the backseat of my Barracuda. Had to sell it
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However, one grand daughter has vomited more than once in her parents van. We don't let her ride in our T&C.
Can someone check and see if their 2005 is the same or that I have a unique problem and they should be backlit?
Thanks,
C.B.
Do you have dual lamps on your sun visor or just one?
Is the visor mirror lamp brightness adjustable?
Do you have a visor extender?
Infinity stereo system has 10 speakers or now just 8?
Is your glove box lighted?
Too bad. All your answers will be negative. They have taken away so many good features, included these posted above (windshield wiper de-icer, dual liftgate lamps, and more.)
One lighted control they never had but most others do have them, is illuminated audio controls on the steering wheel. Did they ever have illuminated cruise control?
Chrysler used to offer on all vans fog lights. Now, you have to take the Limited (or Touring with the leather & luxury package) to get it.
Chrysler thinks that they will make up for all those things with stow-n-go seats. NO NO!
More powerful? Ride? did you notice a muffler noise like some other owners?
What else do you like/dislike?
Post everything, and let's hope Chrysler will listen up and change them in the 2007 redesign!
We like the ride and it seems to be somewhat more comfortable in that respect than the 98. We have no muffler noise problem. We have almost 2000 miles on ours and, so far, I have nothing to go back for on warranty repairs or adjustments. At this stage with the 98, I had a fairly lenghthy list of concerns because I tend to be very picky.
My only concern is the leaving off the "niceties" mentioned in my post and subsequent answers by you and others.
Thanks to all for the very prompt answers to my query.
C.B.
BTW, regarding the lack of controls backlighting, the good news is my wife and I both are now in our mid-seventies so we don't drive much at night anymore.
The 3.8L was making in '98 just 180 horsepower - the same the 3.3L makes today. The 3.8L today is rated for 215 horsepower.
In '96-'96 the 3.8L produced just 166 hp.
And did you also noticed that Chrysler eliminated the storage bins from the third-row? There is still a hole in the sidewall compartment, but no cover anymore.
And it's 2005 and there is still no cover for the bottom part of the dash, which is useless IMO. Even the Ford Freestar now have a standard cover so you can hide some things inside, like CD's or a small box of tissues. I would like to know any usage you can get of that big hole, below the cupholders.
My lowly T&C LX also has 50/50 split fold forward 3rd row, 2nd row bucket seats, Triple Zone temperature control, complete overhead console with outside temp and compass + Trip Computer.
My lowly T&C LX has MANY features not contained on more expensive Sienna LE and Odyssey EX.
Too bad DaimlerChrysler is de-contenting as Honda and Toyota are slowly adding the features that DaimlerChrysler minivans have had for years.
However, DC minivans still provide the nicest minivan for the money.
I drive a 2003 Town & Country in my business, among other cars.