Skip advert
Advertisement

Chrysler Voyager

It's popular with celebrities, but will the Chrysler Voyager make its fame in the used car market?

To some, it looked much like its predecessor, but those who know their cars will tell you the 2001 Chrysler Voyager was revised from the ground up. And it needed it. The outgoing model scored badly in the Euro NCAP crash test, and sales collapsed. The new version's stiffer structure meant it was a good deal more secure, and Chrysler breathed a sigh of relief.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Voyager is still not a great drive, though, and the 3.3-litre V6 is thirsty while the 2.5-litre CRD diesel is hard to find. However, the car has a definite image advantage over rivals, because it's a popular choice among celebrities, thanks to its American styling and smart blacked-out rear windows.

It's also surprisingly affordable, with excellent equipment levels and tempting prices, even at main dealers.

Checklist

  • Gearbox: early manual gearboxes were troublesome, with tiresome shifts prone to premature syncromesh wear. Chrysler introduced a revised unit, with many early boxes replaced under warranty.
  • Windows: don't underestimate the cost of seemingly minor faults - new electric window motors, for example, are in excess of £200. Also, some interior trim is very flimsy and breaks loose easily.
  • Electrics: heaters can be troublesome, so ensure hot air blows from both the front and rear vents, as replacement parts are pricey.
  • Seats: the seats are removable but heavy, especially the rear bench - check for damage to surrounding trim where past owners have had trouble getting it out.
  • Doors: the clever electric sliding doors are operated by the key fob, but can stick if guide rails are not cleaned regularly. This can cause the motors to burn out.

Driving impressions

The Voyager feels big, but is OK in town due to its great visibility and large glass area. The controls are heavy and the manual gearchange on diesels is cumbersome; autos are better, although the change is coarse and indecisive.

Advertisement - Article continues below
Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

Qashqai

2018 Nissan

Qashqai

52,849 milesManualDiesel1.5L

Cash £10,900
View Qashqai
5008

2022 Peugeot

5008

46,225 milesManualDiesel1.5L

Cash £18,506
View 5008
Puma

2023 Ford

Puma

67,042 milesManualPetrol1.0L

Cash £12,506
View Puma
EQC

2023 Mercedes

EQC

21,307 milesAutomaticElectric

Cash £26,000
View EQC

Engines are thirsty in 3.3-litre guise. The oil-burner is more efficient and quiet when cruising. Ride can be lumpy, but for interior luxury it takes some beating, as equipment levels are supreme.

Glass's view

The Voyager has never really set the new or used car markets alight, but it does attract steady demand from those looking for an alternative to some of the more popular large MPVs. Resale prices tend to be on the low side, which is good news for those seeking a bargain, but not great for owners looking to sell. The very well specified Grand Voyager is attractive for those with large load-lugging needs or big families, and again it offers tremendous value for money.
Jeff Paterson, senior editor, Glass's Guide

Life with a Voyager

My Chrysler hasn't been the most reliable - I've never encountered a major problem, but there have been plenty of tiny electrical niggles and irritations, such as bits of trim coming loose.
David Davies, Machynlleth, Powys

The Voyager is big, solid and chunky. I've read some criticisms, but to my mind it is by far the best of the full-size people carriers.
Russell Hayman, Honiton, Devon

Verdict

Improved rivals and safety concerns saw sales of the old Voyager take a dive. So crash protection is improved, while better engines and equipment levels ensure the Chrysler is class-competitive again. There are countless seating options and clever touches inside, although the Grand is the more practical. Top-spec models have electronically powered doors and tailgate. An enticing package in terms of value for money, but there are better models to drive.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,568 off RRP*Used from £12,295
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,721 off RRP*Used from £8,600
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,513 off RRP*Used from £5,500
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £18,725Avg. savings £4,199 off RRP*Used from £15,337
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price
BMW X7 - front

Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price

German firm’s flagship SUV could never be called cheap but it is exceptional value at £735 a month – making it our Deal of the Day for Sunday 27 April
News
27 Apr 2025
New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645
Kia PV5 Cargo on display at Commercial Vehicle Show - front 3/4

New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645

All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles
News
30 Apr 2025