Blog Posts by Margaret Zewatsky

I've been to many auto shows and have seen a bunch of concept cars, but it has been a long time since I've seen a full size minivan on the revolving platform. At the 2012 North American International Auto Show, a Chrysler 700C, in all its glory, was on display and showing what could be the next generation of minivan for Chrysler. 

I'm glad the automaker is still investing in the segment even though the minivan segment only represented 3.3% of CYTD November 2012 vehicle registrations and sales trends have dwindled over the years. This segment, both loved and hated, as I've discussed before, is still a highly regarded necessity for many families. Here at Polk, I appear to be the minivan's greatest fan. 

The excitement of the 700C came right after I sat in a new Dodge Caravan, maybe for the last time. This will be the last model year of the Dodge Caravan, according to the Chrysler auto show spokesperson. The plan is to discontinue the Caravan and focus attention on the Chrysler Town & Country. The Chrysler Town & Country has won the Polk Automotive Loyalty Award for 11 consecutive years in the Minivan category. This year they had a loyalty percentage of 31.5. (See the photo from this year's win on January 10, 2012.)

We shall see if customer loyalty transfers from the Dodge Caravan to the Chrysler Town & Country or if sales shift to other vehicle segments or competitor minivans. 

Posted by Margaret Zewatsky, Product Marketing Manager, Polk (01.13.2012)