Voyager has a shorter wheelbase than many minivans, but the third bench in back still seats average-size adults in reasonable comfort. While the two-place middle bench seat may not be as fashionable as second-row buckets, it has definite advantages. All things equal, we prefer it. No, the middle bench won't keep squabbling siblings separated. On the other hand, it allows easier access to the third seat and more cargo options without removal.
Speaking of removal, Voyager's seats come out easily, latching and unlatching from the floor mounts with a couple of levers. It helps having two to heft them out, but a reasonably robust individual can manage in a pinch. Once the seats are on the ground they roll easily on their wheels.
Such conveniences are a critical part of a minivan's appeal, and when it comes to conveniences the Voyager's value equation gets a little tricky. The crank windows are no problem at all. Indeed, if you've repeatedly flicked the power switch on an electric window up and down, trying to get it open just the right amount, you might actually prefer the cranks. The biggest downside is the inability to roll down a passenger window while driving.
The side mirrors are another story. They're big enough for a good range of vision, and they fold inward to fit tight spaces or prevent damage at the bank machine. Yet they must be adjusted manually, and it can be a cumbersome process--particularly when a driver is alone. There is, on the other hand, a standard rear wiper. Might some buyers prefer electric mirrors to the rear wiper, particularly in households with multiple drivers? Probably. Value is as value does. The same conundrum can apply to other features Voyager lacks or includes.
There are no pockets or bins on Voyager's doors or seatbacks-just a cargo net between the front seats and an open space in the center portion of the dashboard. There are four hooks for clothes hangers in the headliner, and four hooks on the front seats to secure the handles on plastic grocery bags. The glove box is small, but that's balanced by a locking drawer under the front passenger seat. There are decent cupholders at every seating position; two power points in the dash (one switched with ignition) and a third near the hatch; map lights in front, a dome for both the second and third seats, and those handy flood lights in the rear hatch.
In overall cargo capacity, the Voyager doesn't give up much to longer-wheelbase vans such as the Town & Country. With the seats removed, it will handle most jobs the typical household demands, be it hauling sheets of building material or a 35-inch TV in the carton, all fully protected from the elements. It's when all seats are installed that the extended wheelbase vans have an edge. Voyager has noticeably less space behind the third seat. On the other hand, with a family of five buckled in and the third row stowed in the garage, the Voyager still leaves room for several suitcases or the accoutrements required for a typical weekend trip. Next Page