20 MPG combined. Nobody buys a 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan expecting Prius-like fuel efficiency. They buy it because they need to haul a small basketball team, move furniture, or embark on cross-country road trips on a budget. That 20 MPG, while not stellar, is the cost of entry into the world of affordable minivan utility.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure is what you’ll likely see during stop-and-go driving, soccer practice runs, and countless errands. The highway number requires a gentler touch and a steady cruise. Don’t expect to see 25 MPG while barreling down the interstate at 80 mph with a fully loaded van. The naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 works hard to move the Grand Caravan’s considerable weight.

The six-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth, but its age shows, more modern eight- or nine-speed units can often improve fuel economy by keeping the engine in its optimal power band.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan to be $2,200. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and fuel prices based on the national average. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and how much you actually drive. Those who primarily use the Grand Caravan for short city trips will likely exceed that estimate, while those who spend most of their time on the highway might see slightly lower costs. This figure is a good benchmark, but individual results will vary. For all Dodge fuel economy data, you can check out the FuelEconomyHub database.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy often differs from EPA estimates. Grand Caravan owners frequently report combined MPG figures in the 18-22 MPG range. Heavy loads, aggressive driving, and excessive idling will reduce your MPG. Conversely, gentle acceleration and consistent highway speeds can nudge you closer to the EPA’s 25 MPG highway rating. Tire pressure also plays a critical role, properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2018 Grand Caravan’s fuel economy is on the lower end against other minivans. The Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica both achieve 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. That difference of 3 MPG on the highway can add up over the course of a year. Even the Toyota Sienna, with its standard all-wheel drive, manages a slightly better 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. While those vans offer better MPG, they typically come at a higher purchase price. The Grand Caravan’s affordability is a major selling point, and some buyers are willing to sacrifice a few MPGs to save money upfront. If you are interested in GRAND MPG across all years, consult our other data pages.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling. The Grand Caravan consumes fuel even when stationary, especially at cold start. Avoid unnecessary idling, particularly with the AC running. if you anticipate a delay of more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine.

Maintain your tires. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations. Also, rotate tires at the recommended intervals.

Drive smoothly. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Gradual acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently, and anticipating traffic conditions can reduce the need for sudden stops. Maintain a steady speed on the highway and use cruise control when appropriate.

Lighten the load. Extra weight in the vehicle decreases fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the Grand Caravan, especially heavy objects. The less weight the engine has to move, the better your fuel economy will be.