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:

• 

  This American car rock!! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Coolblue - August 29 - 10:00 am

  This is our first american car, and we didnt regret getting it. Not only with its attactive looking, and also the features inside the vehicle. First of all, its wider and longer than those Japanese cars. When we compare that with a van, this car beats them easily. AWD, with DVD and NAV thats the most features we love about. We certainly think DC did a great job in design the ease of use. Only words, what a wonderful job they did. One thing I dont quite like, is their rebates program. I dont think they should lower the price to make the sales goes up. They should build the reputation and customer will come. Just like the mercedes tactic.

• 

  Great car - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Callipyge - August 26 - 9:13 pm

  A great car to drive. Only negative is visibility while backing up at night.

• 

  feri - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By ferenc - August 24 - 10:00 am

  it is a great car.

• 

  good for a family - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Tdf - August 18 - 6:04 pm

  I bought our 2005 Pacifica at auction without much research but I was down to the Ford Freestyle and this. I like the handling and comfort though it has a little lag in power sometimes. The main reason I went with it is because this is one of the only cars or minivans that accommodates 3 children in car seats. with 2 in the second row and the third in the third row. The third row kid required a little assistance with clipping her seat for about 6 months, but I fold down the second third row seat and put her into the vehicle through the hatch. Overall I get about 18-19mpg in rural driving in the foothills of NC.

• 

  Dont Buy One!! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By harleygal78 - August 13 - 11:02 pm

  I bought my Pacifica AWD used in 2006 with 42,000 miles. Since then I have had to replace the inner and outer tie- rod ends, struts, axels, lower control arm, sway arm bushings on both front driver and passenger side. There still is a creaking noise in the front when you hit a bump. Mechanic has no clue what it is. Then I had a problem with the engine revving up when at stop sign the shutting off. Had to replace the erg valve control sensor.

• 

  What a Great Car - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Donald Clark - August 12 - 2:41 pm

  I purchased the car in April in exchange for my 1999 Expedition which was hurting me from a gas cost standpoint. The Pacifica has been very impressive. With the interior able to seat 6 and the exterior sharp look, it is a great car. I recently purchased some Kumbo Road Venture tires to replace the original tires. Well now the ride is excellent. I went on vacation about 670 miles each way and the car handled so well with great acceleration and braking power. If you are looking for the benefits of a big SUV with better gas mileage this is it. OH yeah the trunk can be opened and closed with the key or a switch in the car. This part is very cool especially when you go to the grocery.

• 

  Not happy Chrysler owner, last 1 4 ME - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Last Chrysler for me - August 5 - 8:59 pm

  Bought this car used in Jan 08, not too happy. Had to replace rocker arms last week, big money, no warranty even though only 50K miles. Some ABS or maybe rotor problem, dont even want to know the price for these repairs. Problems with cruise control, has mind of own, shifts up or down, wont resume speed if hit brakes. There is a loud clicking noise when turning slowly, the transmission shifts for no reason at times. This is the noisiest car Ive ever owned, there so many squeaks, clicks and rattles inside the passenger compartment that it is difficult to have a peaceful ride. Sunroof clicks if open or racked, the springs on the passenger seat, trim rattles on doors/dashboard, last 1 for me

• 

  Great Vehicle to Drive - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Darren - August 5 - 12:18 pm

  I have had the 2005 Pacifica for 1 month now and I am delighted to get into it each time. It looks great and has so many amenities. The gas mileage leaves something to be desired and it could use a bit more power but I still love it. The blind spots that others speak of have not been an issue with me. Grab one if you so desire.

• 

  Pacificas Rock - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Good Vehicle - August 5 - 3:40 am

  While this is not the best car it is a good car. For a big vehicle it transmits a fair amount of the road. There is a tendency to oversteer in sharp turns but it does not lean. The ABS feels funny when doing a normal stop. There is an awful harmonic when the rear windows are lowered partially with speed over 40 mph. It is roomy for carrying but lacks rear leg room and the 3d row is just for kids.

• 

  Great! Not a problem - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By EBM - August 4 - 10:45 pm

  Best car. Had it almost three years and not one problem (how often does that happen). Drives great, fun to drive, mileage good for the weight and size (17 city, 23+ highway), plenty of room, quiet, fun to drive (did I already say that?). Took it on three long trips and was a breeze. Felt very secure, true to the road, couldnt ask for a better car. Lease is up and I dont want to give it up. Might have to buy another one.