These two prototypes for the 2008 Chrysler Voyager and Dodge Caravan minivans were caught prowling the streets of suburbanDetroit recently. This was the first time Chrysler Corp.’s next-generation minivans have been caught away from their protective test track, allowing us to get our best look yet at the all-important people-movers.

From the available evidence, it looks like the Dodge and Chrysler versions will once again share most of their body panels, contradicting reports that suggested that there would be greater styling differentiation between the two. It appears that the Dodge and Chrysler variants will once again differ primarily by their front fascias and taillights.

The mechanical bits of these vans will also be shared by Volkswagen, which will design its own body shell to be placed on the largely unchanged chassis provided by DaimlerChrysler. VW’s exterior design is reportedly still in process, with a final styling freeze to come soon. Volkswagen’s as-yet-unnamed variant is expected to hit the market one year after the Dodge and Chrysler models reach showrooms.