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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I love my Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Buffalo-kid - February 7 - 10:00 amI fell for the Pacifica while renting one on vacation in April. So, this summer I bought one! I loved how it had enough room for all the luggage of four adults that over-packed. I didnt even know there was a third row of seats under our luggage, until I started shopping for new SUVs. I had an SUV back home, and it rode like an SUV. In my Pacifica, I feel like im in the lap of luxury in my leather seat with the 10 way adjustment. Ive received so many complements on the look of the car, and they dont even know about all of the cool toys on the inside.
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A Good Choice - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Eric - February 2 - 7:30 amI drove the car because of its unique looks and the all wheel drive. After test driving a Rendezvous, Envoy XL, MDX and (last) Pacifica, I was amazed! The Pacifica hands down was the best looking and most comfortable of the group. Now, after driving it for 2 years, Im still impressed. The drive is almost sporty, I get 20mpg on a mix of city/highway driving and its only been to the shop one time (other than oil changes). The all wheel drive has been outstanding during our Minnesota winters and the heated seats (front AND back) keep everyone warm and cozy while listening to the awesome stereo.
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I love my Pacifica! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By jwiesner - January 29 - 10:00 amThis car is smooth, roomy, and stands out from the crowd.
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Disappointing. Well be keeping our TOWN & COUNTRY - 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
By duraflex - January 24 - 3:14 amAnticipated that the new Pacifica would be a new and greatly improved version of our 2014 Chrysler T&C and the Pacifica is NOT. Although it rides noticeably quieter and somewhat smoother - thats about it. It doesnt handle any better and it has less interior room and worse visibility than the T&C. The second row seats fold into the floor more easily but they are not more comfortable. Pacifica uses a keyless ignition system which I find annoying. The gears are shifted by turning a small dial - why ? Its so awkward and weird and offers no advantage over a gearshift lever. The radio/media system has a big screen but is not intuitive and daunting and distracting to decipher. Cost-wise, you get far less bang for your buck than with a T&C. If you are in the market for a minivan, I would strongly recommend the T&C over the Pacifica any day.
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Worth It - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
By Robert - January 23 - 5:56 pmThis is the first new car we bought since our marriage 12 years ago. My wife wanted a 300C, but I wanted the Dodge Magnum. Finally, after consideration for our kids and long- distance traveling, practicality took hold and we "settled" on a loaded Pacifica, but what a great choice we made! I just returned from our latest trip to Eureka Springs, AR from our home in Oklahoma. The wife & kids had a great time but the most fun I had was driving on extremely steep, windy roads. I was astonished at how effortlessly the car took to the road. I passed several vehicles going as fast as they dared. I got 19.2 mpg for the 273 mile roundtrip, but 23.6 mpg on return leg by keeping speeds < 65 mph
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Only this could pry Mom away from her Sienna - 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
By Hate Toyota Stories - January 18 - 5:35 pmMy wife loved her Sienna. Me personally, I hated it but nothing ever broke except the automatic door shutter. I can live with one thing broken on a 100k van used for a day care. Anyway, I just didnt like it. We sold it when we went overseas. When we moved back to the states I got her to buy a Mazda5 for the fuel mileage. Worked fine while we had 2 kids but when we had a 3rd kid it become close to worthless. Theres just no room in it. Not only that, I had to put up with the constant drone of hearing how great the Sienna was. "The Sienna could do this and that and that better.... blah, blah, blah..." It was like listening to fish stories. The inside got bigger and it got even better gas mileage every time she talked about it. So, we went to look for a minivan. I was thinking Odyssey, she was insisting on Sienna. On a whim we went to go look at a T&C, friend has the Dodge version and swears by it. So off we go after looking at the Hondas and Toyotas all day. And there it was. I guess the dealer just got them in. Never even knew what the Pacifica was. Hadnt seen a commercial for it and I dont exactly look for vans or really even care. Looked at a Limited. Wife loved the sunroofs. And the seats. And the storage. And pretty much everything about it. Nice test drive. Rode good, very quiet. Went home that night and talked about our choices. She was dead set on the Pacifica. I about fell out of my chair. After 7 years of listening to the Toyota hype she swapped brands. 2 weeks later Im still shaking my head. Anyway, we had them find what we wanted in the color we wanted. Took them a day to have it transported to us. We just wanted the safety package with the adaptive cruise and the tow package (and 220amp alternator). I put 10 inch TV/DVD players in myself for $300 vs buying the entertainment package for $999. Weve only racked up 1000 miles but I actually love driving it. It really is a great van and very well thought out. It actually does get 28-29 on the highway at 70mph. Didnt expect that. And it is very quiet. Very nice van and were both really happy. Looking forward to taking a trip in it. Havent heard a single damn Toyota fish story since we bought it.
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very pleased! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Greg - January 5 - 1:43 pmIm happy to say that weve fell on love with our Pacifica. While my wife actually wanted a Town&Country, shes grown to love her new vehicle- even though it doesnt have an aisle down the middle.I love the safety features and the fact that it has enough power to move it rather effectively. It also has such a wide stance that it gives it a uniquely different look for which I applaud Chrysler for inventing. Overall, I believe weve selected a very good vehicle right down to having one of the best dealerships for any problems we may encounter. I only wish theyd provide free gas for the life of the loan!!!
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WOW - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By LarrysCar - January 5 - 2:00 amReal Nice. Very good in the snow. I am 6.3 and I fit in the middle row of seats. Not one problem in the first 3 months. Everyone who gets a ride loves it. The only little thing I had is at ten below zero the low tire light comes on, at 5 below it goes off. I have a bad back and this AWD car I can drive for hours. Most SUV after 10 minutes I am hurting.
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A winner in most every way - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
By HAL POTE - January 2 - 3:46 amA real joy to drive, especially in the mountains. The all-wheel drive is sweet and makes cornering a breezing at speed. A bit slow after the one-two shift unless under full throttle. Ample room and interior seating is fully adjustable and folds easily. Cargo space is cavernous and we love it. Expect only about 17-18 mpg in denver commuting or 75mph interstate driving.
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My new car living up to very good reviews - 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
By Ricchard Depew - December 31 - 6:22 pmOnly have owned the car for 2 weeks. Excellent features, car has lots of acceleration. Love the many seat adjustments including heated seats.
