Chrysler unveils 2013 Town & Country S at LA Auto Show
The 2013 Chrysler Town & Country S made its debut in Los Angeles, introducing blacked-out styling, new entertainment tech and a 3.6-litre V6 for the minivan segment.
Chrysler officially presented the 2013 Town & Country S at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, introducing a new sport-inspired trim to its established minivan lineup. The Town & Country S is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more distinctive and stylish family vehicle, while retaining the practicality and comfort that the model is known for. With this unveiling, Chrysler aims to refresh interest in its minivan offering amid growing competition from crossovers and SUVs.
2013 Chrysler Town & Country S: Unveiling and Overview
Styling and Exterior Features
The S trim stands out from other Town & Country models thanks to a suite of black chrome and black accent styling cues. These include a black chrome grille, blacked-out headlamp surrounds, and dark-finished wheels, replacing much of the standard brightwork found on other trims. These visual changes are intended to give the Town & Country S a sportier and more contemporary appearance, targeting style-conscious families who want their minivan to look a bit different from the norm.
Chrysler offers the 2013 Town & Country S in four exterior colours: Billet Silver, Stone White, Deep Cherry Red, and Brilliant Black. These options give buyers some flexibility in personalising the look of their vehicle, further emphasising the S model’s focus on style.
Interior Upgrades and Technology
Inside, the S trim brings unique interior accents in keeping with its exterior theme. The most notable addition is the upgraded rear-seat entertainment system, which now features a Blu-Ray player. This marks the first time a minivan in this segment has offered Blu-Ray capability, underlining Chrysler’s efforts to lead in family-oriented in-car technology. The system is designed to provide rear passengers, especially children, with more advanced media options for longer journeys.
The Blu-Ray system is a significant step up from previous DVD-based options, offering higher-quality playback and compatibility with newer media formats. This addition is likely to be appreciated by families who spend considerable time on the road and value up-to-date entertainment for their passengers.
Trim Positioning and Pricing
The Town & Country S is positioned between the Touring L and Limited trims in Chrysler’s 2013 minivan range. This placement allows the S trim to offer a balance of style and equipment without reaching the price point of the top-spec Limited model. The starting price is set at $32,990 in the United States, making it accessible to families who want additional features and a sportier look without moving to the highest trim level.
With the S trim, Chrysler is targeting buyers who prefer the practicality and spaciousness of a minivan but are also interested in a less traditional, more visually striking alternative. The enhanced entertainment system and unique styling are key selling points for this demographic.
Powertrain and Driving Experience
Under the bonnet, the 2013 Town & Country S uses Chrysler’s familiar 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, delivering 238hp and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. There are no mechanical changes exclusive to the S trim, so performance and fuel economy remain consistent with other Town & Country models. The focus for the S is on appearance and equipment rather than changes to the chassis or powertrain.
This engine has been well received in the Town & Country range for its blend of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and longer family trips. The six-speed automatic gearbox ensures smooth shifts and contributes to the minivan’s overall ease of use.
Chrysler’s Strategy and Market Context
The introduction of the Town & Country S comes at a time when minivans face increasing competition from crossovers and SUVs, which have become popular family vehicles. By adding a more distinctive trim with advanced entertainment features, Chrysler aims to sustain interest in its minivan and attract buyers who might otherwise look to other vehicle types for style or technology. The S trim’s launch in Los Angeles, a city known for its focus on style and trends, reflects Chrysler’s intent to position the Town & Country as a modern and appealing choice for families.
Chrysler’s decision to offer Blu-Ray entertainment first in this segment is an example of the brand’s ongoing commitment to innovation in family vehicles. This move may prompt competitors to update their own in-car technology offerings in response, potentially benefiting consumers across the segment.
| Engine | 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 238hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Trim Position | Between Touring L and Limited |
| Starting Price (US) | $32,990 |
| Exterior Colours | Billet Silver, Stone White, Deep Cherry Red, Brilliant Black |
| Rear Entertainment | Blu-Ray system (first in segment) |
