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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  Wow! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Vicki - July 28 - 9:51 am

  I love this ride! I love the memory seats with the controls on the door. It only takes the push of one button after my husband, who is a foot taller than me, has driven it. With my short legs the adjustable pedals put an end to my sitting on the steering wheel. The front, rear, side and roof air bags I hope I will never have to use but a great comfort to have, just in case. Its great at the drive in!

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  Class and room - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Pack fan - July 23 - 3:52 pm

  I recently purchased my first Pacifica and love it. There is room like a van but stability like a sedan. Everything is at your fingertips and I average over 21 MPG. Storage is phenomenal and the ease of getting in and out helps when going anywhere with my dad. Everyone is impressed with its stylish look and the stereo rocks

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  What a nice surprise - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By David - July 22 - 11:19 pm

  I had to get a car for a new sales job where I travel daily. Needed more room for people, and displays. I traded in my Lexus which I just loved, I never thought that the Pacifica could ever compare with the Lexus. Was I surprised. I got a 2007 touring model with the 4.0 and 6 speed trans. This is by far the quietest, nicest riding, comfortable car I have ever owned. The stock stereo with Sirius satellite is unbelievable with a pounding bass and clear sound even at high levels. The ride rivals that of the finest European cars. ( I have owned BMW and Lexus prior). The 4.0 has plenty of get up and go and very fun to drive. Love the interior and get plenty of compliments on the styling.Love it

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  Speed sensors - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Leah - July 19 - 3:53 pm

  The car is decent. Nice style and plenty of room for a family, but I must have a lemon. I have had my ABS sensors in all four wheels replaced 2 times and my axle has broken twice, for no reason, just city driving, to the grocery store and mall. The first time I had the problem with the ABS sensors the car was only a few months old and its happened every year. Now I am working on the 3rd time I must have these sensors changed and they have no clue why I keep having this problem. Of course, now the car no longer has a warranty and I have to pay for it. DESPITE the fact that the same work has been done 2 other times. Just beware and be cautious.

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  Great Option, Buy a Pacifica - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By JPacips - July 17 - 9:32 am

  We purchased our Pacifica to replace my wifes VW Passat. With only 1 kid, and a growing family we needed something larger, but not as large as a mini van. Not quite to soccer mom status yet. The 4.0 L is a great engine with adequate power, and plenty of pep. 6sp transmission is very smooth. Handles great. The back hatch is almost exactly 48" inches wide (at its widest) I just put a sign in it the other day with all 4 back seats down, worked great. The one major draw back is backing up. There is a pretty big blind spot, and it takes some getting used to. Back up sensors would be helpful(didnt come with ours). My wife loves to drive it, we highly recommend this car! too bad no more after 08

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  Great Car! - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Greg - July 17 - 1:24 am

  After many months of research and test drives we decided on the Pacifica Limited AWD. Am I ever happy with our choice. It drives and rides like a dream. The craftsmanship inside and out is impeccable. With all the goodies that came as standard equipment coupled with the optional packages, the price was very surprising. This is my 6th Chrysler. My 95 Concorde has 300,000 mi. on and is still going strong. Hopefully my Pacifica will give me the same kind of service!!

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  many repairs at 50k - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By sue - July 17 - 12:08 am

  Have all the bells and whistles, have had little problems. Reached 50k and now had to replace the evaporator for the AC plus drier/freon/oil for $1900. Also the front brakes for $250. The motor mounts are cracked, $700, The total repairs for this plus other items was $6,600. Never had that kind of problems with any other car I have owned.

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  Piece of Junk - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By cro - July 15 - 11:14 am

  This is the worst car I have ever owned. To say that I hate it is an understatement. There is ZERO visibility in the rear. It makes lots of mystery noises that several mechanics cannot place. The gas consumption is horrible. Im looking to trade it in but the money offered is not good. I cant even give away this piece of junk. Dont think about getting one!

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  Incredible Vehicle - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By NCPACIFICA - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Though we have not had this car very long, I can tell this is the best all around car we have had. We came off an Expedition Eddie B. to this car, and the space of the Pacifica its incredible. You must get in one to believe it. Interior and ride are just like a Mercedes Benz! The car is simply beautiful in and out, as well as comfortable and practical.

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  Thank you - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By KMeade - July 11 - 12:17 pm

  I had a Ford Explorer XLT and I wanted something smaller but still big and this did it for me. I like the gas and the controls on the steering wheel. I love the space and the truck lots of leg room and very comfortable. Could have done better about the backup view. But I can work it.