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 first Showroom floor Purchase - 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Suzette Bean - December 11 - 2:55 pm

  This Pacifica has almost everything. Love the tri-panel panoramic sun roof. The clock could be larger though.

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  All weather luxury alternative - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Bob - December 9 - 10:29 am

  I use the Pacifica for business, and it performs very well in all conditions. I have had to have clients in my car and then stop at Home Depot on the way home to pick up large items and the Pacifica handles both tasks equally as well. This is a fine lower priced alternative to the equivalent Lexus, Mercedes, and Audi entries in this class. The Pacifica has performed well in very bad road conditions - never leaving me stranded or unable to get where I need to be.

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  GREAT CAR - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By J. Thorne - December 6 - 10:46 pm

  Very good road handling, especially when it is raining. Holds the road well. Excellent MPG on highway. I was really surprised at the distance that i could get. Easy to park and maneuver. Great car. Will upgrade in a year or two.

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  Chrysler Pacifica - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Laura - December 6 - 5:30 am

  We love our new Pacifica. My husband used to drive Mercedes and Cadillac and he says that driving this car is even better. It handles like a dream, is extremely comfortable and it is beautiful inside and out. It is also highly functional as an SUV without losing any of the luxuries and comfort of a sedan. I have had people stop me on the street and ask me about it. And my son ... the car snob of the century says "its tight." There is no higher praise than that :-).

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  Excelllent - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By MelMehl - November 29 - 11:28 am

  The perfect egress, digress is wonderful for someone with back problems. Literally, the back seat is more comfortable than the front. Love the 3rd row.

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  Buy One! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By The Flash - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Weve had our Black AWD Pacifica for about 5 months now, put on about 7500 miles, and I couldnt be happier. It is one of the nicest, smoothest riding, smoothest handling, vehicle we have every owned. The navigation system, sound system, and array of very handy options are great. The more I drive it, the more I like it.

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  Best Vehicle of Chrysler - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By norman Inkman - November 26 - 2:00 am

  I have had over 30 new cars and SUV in the last 20 years, which include Lexus, Mercedes, Infinities etc. This Pacifica is the best value and sound vehicle mfg. It has very good style, great room to hall stuff, and fun to drive , Very under rated and under priced ! Chrysler / Mercedes has put together a great vehicle

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  Great New Car - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Tabonf - November 22 - 8:03 pm

  This car is new and I am very pleased so far. It handles well and has a very comfortable ride. Only one minor problem on delivery, the sun roof needed adjustment. The mileage is reasonable for size (20mi/gal).

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  What a great vehicle!! - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By MARY L. - November 15 - 11:53 am

  I have loved driving this automobile since i took my test drive - knew i had to have it. Rides like a dream. I own the 2005 4wd touring edition, loaded but without the navigation system. Had some minor glitches (sunroof rattle, squeaky engine belt) that needed fixing, but this car still makes me enjoy driving everyday i get in it.

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  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By ddixon - November 12 - 9:22 am

  Purchased this car as a retirement vehicle. Has met all my expectations for reliability, comfort and convenience. The only negative is poor sight in backup mode - you have to be really careful and take it slowly. Great car in the city and on the highway, not affected by high winds, stops on a dime, handling is very good. Gas mileage averages 20 MPG which is not bad for a very heavy vehicle.