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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  Great vehicle - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Monique - April 19 - 7:53 am

  I love driving this car. I love the fact that every feature in this car helps you feel at comfort. The 10 point seat adjuster, power mirrors, radio stations, and pedals can be set, so that if there are more drivers your personal settings are not lost. I love the fact that the Pacifica has a unique look. It does not look like a van but has a lot of room inside. The Pacificas 6 cyl 240 horse power gives you a great pick up when needed, and the AWD helps all season with rain and snow. I also love the extra room for the kids and other family members when you needed. I feel safe driving the pasifica,with side airbags. I feel that this vehicle is the ultimate safety/traveling SUV this year.

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  Why drive anything else - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By KimPgh - April 17 - 9:31 pm

  This is my 2nd Pacifica. First one had many upgrades. I got the Limited AWD this time. Only thing missing is the kitchen sink. Chrysler improved the engine with the 4.0. It has great pickup vs 2004, has better gas mileage too. Passenger windows are same grade as the windshield keeps outside noise to a min. Love the DVD w/wireless headphones(no tangling). People in front can listen to their favorites on beautiful stereo system, with subwoofers. Nicer design on the outside. The Pacifica says move over. 4700 lbs of safety for my family. Suede and leather heated seats are a must. You can adjust everything to your liking. Looking forward to this car on long trips. This is the meaning of true luxury

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  My 4th Pacifica - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Wendy - April 16 - 11:05 pm

  My first Pacifica was bought back by Chrysler after 3 mo. The next one had minor problems and traded it in after 1 yr. 3rd one, Touring was great. Lease was almost up and with Chrysler push forward program, I got into a new one earlier. I went for the Limited with everything. I especially love the 4.0 engine. What a ride. The 07 is by far the best one yet.

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  Happier Than When I First Bought - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Annette Brady - April 15 - 8:42 pm

  I just returned from three months in Florida and am happier than my first report. Car averaged 18 mpg. for local driving. and 25.7 on the trip back to Ohio. Driving in the South you have to atay at 80+ to keep from being run over. Car is a dream on the road!!

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  Pacifica a winner - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By beaubear - April 10 - 2:00 am

  The new Chrysler Pacifica is a perfect blend of performance, safety, reliablity, sophisticated styling and luxury. We recently replaced a 99 VW Passat and couldnt be happier with the choice. It is especially nice on longer road trips, as it rides smoothly and has a lot of room for luggage. I think the exterior styling is stunning as well. Sort of looks like an angry, low slung, sure-footed mommymobile.

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  Above all expectations - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Peri - April 7 - 3:02 pm

  My Touring Signature Series performs much better than my expectations. The combination of the well-tuned 4.0 liter engine with the 6-speed gear, plus the smooth auto-stick gear, gives this car an outstanding perfomance. Moreover, the Pacifica looks awesome and stylish. It is worthy every single penny.

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  Happy Camper - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By GREGG - April 7 - 11:34 am

  The favorite options moonroof, heated seats, power lift gate, and nav system. I picked the Pac up in VA and drove it to NY. 24 MPG cruising at 75. I would think the mileage could only get better. The reach into the back from the back of the car with the 3rd row seats folded down is a bit of a stretch but tolerable to get those grocery bags. The Pac is a great cruiser. We will see how Mom does around town. So far, she is beyond thrilled with the car. If the Pac, long term, is 1/2 as good as the 96 T&C we had, we will all be smiling.

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  Great car - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By McdinTexas - April 4 - 11:58 am

  I have had this car for almost 16,000 miles and two years and have not had one problem with it. The Pacifica is a very solid vehicle and well built. The ride is what got my attention. This baby is a road cruiser and handles like a much smaller sporty car. This car rides better than my Cadillac. It sits high which is nice for easy entry and exit and view of the road. Five star crash rating brings in that safety factor I was looking for. The car has hauled almost everything from furniture to sheets of plywood with out any problems, very handy. The fit and finish are what you could expect from Benz or BMW. Well done Chrysler. Also get 18 city and 25 highway MPG.

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  Excellent in Winter - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Minnesota Dan - April 3 - 2:00 am

  We live in Minnesota and the vehicle got us everywhere we wanted to go in all weather conditions. It is also very fun to drive. We also enjoy all the positive comments and questions from people who want to know about the car.

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  Very Happy With Purchase - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By mrktwatchr - March 31 - 6:47 am

  Have had this vehicle for 9 months and we love it. Very comfortable and a dream to drive. its very stable on the road. Solid