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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MY 2004 Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By carboy - January 17 - 2:03 pmThings I like is that i can haul lot of things with 3 row down, but am able to put my son and 2 dogs in in back and they can watch a dvd. Fuel Mileage could be a little better but going to complain.
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You just would not believe it! - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
By James - January 15 - 12:26 amI have owned BMWs and other luxury cars, but for the money you just cant beat this one! It is just a pure delight to drive. It is quite and smooth and wind noise is virtual non existent. Road noise is about the same as a 745i but just a tad bit louder. The seats are just right, not to firm or soft; they just seem to hug and hold you. Like most people are saying in here, the leg room is outstanding! As for the wife, she loves the drive height as she can see over the small cars and loves the way it handles. Parking is no problem here! We look forward to a long relationship with this one.
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Worth a Look - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By ramzey28 - January 14 - 2:00 amThis vehicle is worth a look at...Dare to Compare. I think the Pacifica will win hands down for the price. Best of all worlds. A great combination of SUV, Wagon, and Minivan. Well laid out..with features to die for. Would like to see rear sensors, 5 speed auto. with 30 more hp., 1"+ ground clearance.
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The perfect family/adult car - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Kiersten - January 7 - 2:00 amThe family car meets the luxury car... This vehicle is everything the family needs (6 six) and everything the young parents(w/ babysitter)/yuppies want... Germany meets USA. Great handling, looks and an interior that rivals any in any class. Nav and DVD a must. Mercedes handling with a 300M engine cant be beat. Its a must test drive.
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Awesome Automobile - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Suzanne Brown - January 7 - 2:00 amWe bought our Pacifica in August and were immediately satisfied. The smooth ride, roomy interior and 5 star crash rating are all that a family of 5 could ask for. We had to sell our Pacifica for financial reasons, but are back in the market for one at this time. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone that wants total satisfaction.
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Great Car, Fun to Drive - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
By J. Sawa - December 31 - 12:10 amI chose the Pacifica after looking at several other choices, and I have not regretted my choice once. I really love this vehicle theres room for everyone plus room for gear. I chose the front-wheel drive Touring sedan (for better gas mileage) with the 2 rear captains seats and the 2 way-back seats that fold down, rather than a bench back seat. I also have the better radio with 5-CD changer. We take this vehicle on vacation every year (a 13-hour drive each way), and Im never cramped or exhausted when we arrive at our destination. Chrysler has a winner with the Pacifica. When its time to replace our current model, Ill look for another Pacifica.
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Buy One Youll be surprised - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Ed Schomer,Jr. - December 29 - 6:12 pmIm retired and my health took a turn thats why my mileage is so low. When we first bought it we took two long trips. The trips were beautiful we were able to use speed control most of the way that took a lot of stress off. Now we use it for a food hauler and local trips.
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2006 Chrysler Pacifica - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
By Chico - December 23 - 7:46 amThis is my wifes car and I love it. Great interior design and classic exterior. The ride is outstanding and very comfortable. Plenty of power, but gas mileage could be better. Overall its a great car.
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Great Car - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By Foustie - December 22 - 10:00 amExtremely comfortable on both short and long trips. Great styling and craftmanship. A lot of thought went into this one.
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Great Vehicle - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
By landark - December 14 - 10:00 amLooking for a family car that is different that everyone elses SUV, the cost is way less than a ML 350 or X5. The size is larger and the comfort is equal. Not as tall to get in and out of, handles like a car, and equipped in comfort. Mercedes quality in an American product. Congratulations!
