Overview & Reviews
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. Unfortunately, the Pacifica didn't possess particularly great interior packaging. While the first two rows were spacious for occupants, the third row was acceptable only for children and left very little space for cargo behind it when deployed. The rearmost seat does, however, fold flat into the floor in convenient 50/50 sections.
The Pacifica's Mercedes Benz-derived suspension garnered wide praise for its carlike ride and handling. But early Pacificas suffered from reliability woes and mediocre engines in a price bracket where potent and refined powertrains were the norm. Not helping matters were the large wagon's hefty weight and relatively unsophisticated four-speed automatic transmission, both of which took their toll on fuel economy. A significant update for 2007, however, brought about a new V6 engine, a new six-speed automatic for most models and updated styling.
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. The original base model was relatively well-equipped, but it was offered with fewer features and a lower price when the Touring trim level slotted in above it in 2005. At first, Pacificas were powered by a 3.8-liter V6 with 210 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. Reviewers faulted the gruff engine, which was barely up to the task of battling the Pacifica's formidable mass, especially on fully loaded all-wheel-drive models. Given that early 2004 Pacificas also had some well-known repair issues, we'd play it safe and restrict our search to 2005 and newer models.
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. The 4.0-liter engine cranked out a respectable 255 hp and 265 lb-ft, and it was teamed with a new six-speed automatic transmission (the base engine continued with the old four-speed unit). All Pacificas were rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds.
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. Starting in 2005, Touring models received additional standard features, a much longer options list and six-passenger seating via the addition of a two-passenger third-row seat and the replacement of the regular second-row bench with two bucket seats and a center console. The 2005 base model, meanwhile, lost some standard accoutrements and was priced lower going forward. The best-dressed and most luxurious Chrysler Pacifica was the Limited, which featured cleaner styling, bigger wheels and a long list of luxury features, including an upmarket audio system and a power liftgate.
In Chrysler Pacifica reviews, our editors found the crossover wagon's strengths to be its exceptional comfort for four, sedanlike driving characteristics, top-notch safety scores and upscale interior. The 3.8-liter engine is to be avoided, but the 3.5-liter and 4.0-liter V6s are decent performers. Downsides include a lack of legroom in the third row and a lack of overall utility when compared to the top available minivans.
User Reviews:
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We love it - 2008 Chrysler Pacifica
By Retired - March 12 - 9:01 pmReplaced a 2006 3.5 4 spd with this 2008 4.0 6 spd. 06 had a transmission problem that could not be fixed before we had to travel. What a difference. Must faster from the light, better milage on the highway but about the same mpg here in the Arkansas mountain community. Did replace air filter with K&N and use synthetic oil. Rides and drives better than any vehicle we have owned. Can drive 800 miles a day with no problem. Sorry theyre going to discontinue. Guess with the bumper to bumper lifetime warranty well drive it until it wont go.
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The Luxury SUV that Jeep should have.... - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
By David - March 4 - 7:53 pmI have had my Pacifica since 2/1/05. I have about 1,900 miles on it now and I LOVE driving it. I had a 99 Jeep Grand Cherokee which I loved, but wanted more luxury inside a better ride and better handling, with All Wheel Drive. "BAM" out comes the 2005 pacifica to fill the bill. This has to be my most favorite vehicle to date. It does all the SUV and Van things, has almost all the goodies you could want, but it looks and rides like an expensive luxury machine. Dare I say Mercedes ? Easy enter and exit, awesome leather interior, as much cargo room as my jeep with the third row seats down and super handling on snow and icy roads. THUMBS UP Chrysler.. NICE JOB !
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Sad to see this baby go - 2008 Chrysler Pacifica
By jtg1961 - March 4 - 7:34 pmThis is the second Chrysler Pacifica Ive owned. I was happy with my 05 but wanted to upgrade to the 08 with 4.0L engine and 6 spd transmission. The difference with the extra power and smoother shifting is incredible. Too bad they didnt get it right initially but they have it right now, just in time to discontinue the line. What a shame, this is one of the best vehicles Chrysler has ever made. I bought one of the last of the 08 model year and hopefully itll last a long time. The lifetime powertrain warranty should ensure that it does.
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Love our 2005 Touring FWD - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
By TBrown - February 3 - 5:16 amWeve owned this car just over two weeks, and we love it. We still have lots to learn about this vehicle, in terms of manipulating all of the controls which are readily available at your finger tips from either front seat. The overall interior design is excellent, with only a couple minor exceptions/possible improvements. If you have kids and you dont like minivans, you need to look at the Pacifica with 3rd row seating. From the standpoint of vision, the Pacifica feels more like a SUV because you sit higher than you would in a sedan, but it drives like a sedan. As a driver you feel safer, but not intimidated behind the wheel. Backing up in tight spaces is taking some getting used to.
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Truly and all in one vehicle - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Kym Beegl - February 2 - 10:00 amThe styling is a head turner. The interior really takes you by suprise. The power vs my old 300M with same engine should be boosted in future Pacificas. Sound system is truly remarkable. Overall out of 1-10 I give the new Pacifica a 9, only due to lack of power from the engine
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Found a new favorite! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Kraz_Eric - January 25 - 12:53 amI have finally found a new favorite car. I bought it used, with less than 100,000 miles and only one owner. It looks and feels nearly new. It handles well, with the basic outward size and feel as a large sedan, but the internal size is spacious and comfortable. Plenty of room for family and cargo. I truly love the style and comfort of this vehicle. It looks both classy and sporty. It is as comfortable as any luxury auto. And has the space of a mini van. I have found the perfect vehicle only to learn that 2008 will be its last year.
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Love my Pacifica - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
By berdan - January 21 - 3:36 pmI have four children who are older, I came from many minivans. We couldnt give up the space because sometimes the kids are with me for traveling. Also I like having space for when I buy furniture. I like a car that I feel safe in. This car offers all that. It drives like a dream. The seats are not so comfortable! A road trip to Florida proved that they are not meant for comfort.
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Crossing Over - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Larry McCarthy - January 21 - 2:00 amWe started our search for a new vehicle envisioning ourselves driving off in a new Santa Fe. We deceided to test drive the Jeep liberty to have something to compare to the Santa Fe. When we walked into the dealership we saw for the first time the Pacifica. It had everything we wanted and then some. If you "Dare to be different", then this is a vehicle to consider. Comfortable, roomy, quiet, unique, stylish, all apply to the pACIFICA. Sure I wish it pumped out just a few more horses, but the 3.5L, 250hp standard engine is smooth, and quiet. So far, so good.
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Just got mine...LOVE IT!! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Pud2 - January 15 - 2:00 amWe just picked up our new 2004 Butane Blue(delivered from factory last week!) Pacifica. Absoluteley AWESOME car/SUV/mini- van/whatever! Have put 500 miles on it this week, no problems or issues yet....seems to be VERY well built, drives super, and a luxury interior that cannot be beat! I am getting about 19.5 MPG at this stage, not bad for a new one, I am sure it will get better as it breaks in. We have no "power" issues...a drag racer its not, but power is fine for everyday driving...yes, INCLUDING passing! If you are in the market for a "crossover" type vehicle, consider the Pacifica...you will be pleasantly surprised!
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beat out Lexus rx330 - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Lacy11 - January 15 - 2:00 amI just sold my RX300 for the Chrysler Pacifica. I tried driving both and hands down the chrysler beat the 330. Love it!
