SE Plus vs. an LX, sure. But if you want features in the Grand Caravan, it quickly adds up. The minimum asking price for models with automatic tri-zone temperature control and power sliding doors from my local dealer was $36k after $8k cash on the hood with a lot of features added on, Security Group, Tow Package, Entertainment Package, etc. I was just interested in a Crew Plus with absolutely no packages. I guess the dealer doesn't make money on those.
$36k I'm buying an Odyssey EX or Sienna LE.
they make money on those at dodge... if you pay closer to msrp that is... those advertised specials are not only a cheaper car with less markup, but a 3k+ discount which puts us in the red on those...
now, with that being said, currently, say you want a crew plus with no options, sale price is 33095 without taking off any dealer discount. we make money, but don't stock many of those. like everyone in here, customers start seeing the price get to the mid-30's and start wondering what they get elsewhere. and while they may get more stuff on the GC, the price isn't cheap enough to warrant them looking like they want the cheap route to their friends!
so yeah... 31500 would buy you a crew plus... that's heated leather, touchscreen, back up cams, power doors and all that you would expect on the more expensive vans. keep in mind it's like an ex-l for the mid 40's that would be comparable (but the GC would be missing things like a sunroof, blind spot etc that can be put on)
but with that being said, i do agree that the sienna and odyssey seem better put together...