Which automaker introduced the first minivan in 1983?

The automaker that introduced the first widely recognized modern minivan in 1983 was Chrysler. Its first-generation minivans went on sale in November 1983 as 1984 models, chiefly under the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager names.

Chrysler developed the vehicles during the late 1970s as compact, car-like alternatives to large vans and station wagons. Built on the front-wheel-drive S platform, they combined a relatively low floor, passenger-car driving characteristics, flexible seating, and a sliding side door. Those features helped create a major new family-vehicle market in North America.

The launch was not initially branded primarily as a Chrysler model: Dodge sold the Caravan and Plymouth sold the Voyager. Chrysler added a minivan wearing its own nameplate in 1990, when the Town & Country became a luxury-oriented version. The longer-wheelbase Grand Caravan and Grand Voyager arrived for the 1987 model year.

The word “first” can be confusing because earlier vehicles, including some European vans and unconventional multi-purpose cars, had similar layouts. In ordinary automotive history, however, Chrysler is credited with introducing the modern American minivan that popularized the format.