DaimlerChrysler SA has launched a mildly-facelifted version of Chrysler’s venerable Voyager MPV. The new range has been extended to include a 2,8-litre CRD diesel derivative with automatic transmission.
DaimlerChrysler SA has launched a mildly-facelifted version of Chrysler’s venerable Voyager MPV. The new range has been extended to include a 2,8-litre CRD diesel derivative with automatic transmission.
Since it’s official local launch in 1999, the Chrysler Voyager has achieved strong sales in the MPV sector of the market. DaimlerChrysler intends to build on the Voyager’s success by offering the latest generation of the MPV with new features, safety enhancements and cabin refinements.
Side curtain airbags now standard
The new Voyager has three-row, A to D-pillar side curtain airbags that provide full-length protection for passengers sitting at the opposite ends of all three rows of seats. There is also an enhanced seat belt reminder system, which if a vehicle is driven without the driver being buckled up, will periodically activate a chime and illuminate a light in the instrument cluster to remind the driver to fasten his or her seatbelt.
Multi-stage front airbags provide enhanced protection for occupants at various deployment levels based on the severity of the impact. The Child Seat Anchor System (LATCH/ISOFIX) continues to be standard in the second row of all models.
New front end, ‘quieter’ interior
The Voyager has been fitted with a new grille and quad headlights, which are said to embody “the new face of Chrysler” and incorporate design elements seen in some of the marque’s recently-launched models – such as the Crossfire. There are also new side mouldings, wheel designs and three additional exterior colours: Light Khaki, Dark Khaki and Deep Beryl Green.
Inside, the MPV has a new front fascia and an all-new sound system, integrated with AM/FM stereo and CD player in the centre stack unit and electric sliding side doors and rear liftgate. A rear park assist system and an interior overhead rail module (with up to six movable and removable storage bins and rear temperature controls) are standard on the Limited and optional on the LX.
Chrysler has further made a number of improvements that it claims significantly reduce the level of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness).
Mike Donoughe, the Chrysler Group’s vice president of family vehicle product team, said. “For our new Voyager, we’ve essentially created a library-like atmosphere to ensure that conversation may occur any time with anyone anywhere in the vehicle.”
The Voyager 2,8 CRD model is upgraded with a package consisting of acoustic treatments in the engine and passenger compartment. These include: a shock tower absorption pads, and acoustic oil pan and battery wraps, plenum/cowl acoustic treatments, absorber pads behind splash shields, cowl side fender absorbers, pillar, under hood and dash closeout silencers and improved dash seals.
110 kW 2,8 CRD with automatic ‘a first’
DaimlerChrysler SA claims the combination of 2,8-litre four-cylinder common-rail turbo diesel with a four-speed gearbox offers “best-in-class torque and strong performance while achieving significantly better fuel economy than direct competitors with smaller engines”. The Voyager’s 2,8 CRD produces maximum power at 3 800 r/min and peak torque of 360 N.m at 1 800 r/min and the manufacturer claims an average fuel consumption .
The Chrysler Voyager model range is equipped with a choice of three different engines: 3,3-litre V6 and 2,4-litre I-4 petrol engines, and the new 2.8-litre CRD engines. The 2,4 petrol produces 108 kW of power and 218 N.m of torque and the 3,3-petrol is mated with an automatic transmission and provides 128 kW of power and 278 N.m of torque.
Prices:
Voyager 2,4 R269 900
Grand Voyager 2,8 CRD automatic R339 900
Grand Voyager 3,3 SE automatic R309 900
Grand Voyager 3,3 LX automatic R362 900
Grand Voyager 3,3 LTD automatic R397 900