The Chrysler Pacifica carries many of the features now expected in crossover vehicles, but doesn't deliver the engine power or value of class leaders and ranks in the bottom half of both the affordable midsize and crossover SUV classes.
While the "Chrysler Pacifica" is a viable minivan alternative, our analysis shows that its engine power and third-row seating fall short of expectations.
The Chrysler Pacifica was one of the original large crossover wagons. In order to combine the driving attributes of a car with the utility offered by minivans and sport-utility vehicles, the Pacifica crossover had four front-hinged doors, an elevated seating position, five- or six-passenger seating and a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Compared to other crossover wagons, the Chrysler Pacifica was relatively upscale and offered a wide array of creature comforts wrapped in elegantly chiseled sheet metal. Most Recent Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica debuted for the 2004 model year, at which point it was offered only in base and Limited trim levels. A 3.5-liter V6 with 250 hp and 250 lb-ft became standard on all but the base front-wheel-drive model in 2005, and the 3.8-liter V6 was eliminated for 2006, leaving the 3.5-liter unit as the sole available engine. For 2007, the 3.8-liter mill returned in the base front-wheel-drive model, this time rated at 200 hp, and a 4.0-liter V6 replaced the 3.5-liter V6 in all other models. Base 2004 Pacificas featured two-row, five-passenger seating and were fairly comfortable, thanks to niceties such as dual-zone climate control, a power driver seat and a load-leveling suspension. The 2005 base model, meanwhile, lost some standard accoutrements and was priced lower going forward. The 3.8-liter engine is to be avoided, but the 3.5-liter and 4.0-liter V6s are decent performers.