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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  Ahh, the scent of lemons! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Michelle - April 22 - 2:29 pm

  I loved the car when I bought. It is definitely a safe car to drive, but it wreaks havoc in your wallet. Does anyone want unexplainable stalling? How about heat when the blower motor and resistor go out? Or the best of all experience shaking in the front of their car because you have to replace the outer tie rod and nut set? Dont forget about 10,000 miles later you have to replace the inner ones one more thing dont forget to add a new set of tires about every two years. Suggestion invest in an extended warranty or get a second job.

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  We Like - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Thomas - April 17 - 9:49 am

  I have only had this car a couple of days and I love it already. It has a lot of features for a 2005. I had an Infinit 2005 a while back with a lot of options. This car is the only one we have found so far with all the bells and whistles for a reasonable price. It rides very smooth and noise reduction in car is outstanding. I recommend this car to Busy Moms who dont like the look of the minivan, but want the room. The car has all the space of a minivan, with the class to go along. It can be used for soccer practice, or night on the town!

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  I Love My Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Judith Gray - April 13 - 8:02 pm

  The Pacifica has been ny favorite car ever. First and foremost, it is very safe with the airbacks and side curtains. My only complaint, which is my fault, is that if you leave the doors open for 45 minutes for a cleaning and dont remember to turn off the interior lights, you will run your battery down. The Pacifica has more interior lights than many cars. I was a bit nervous buying a first year model. However, I didnt ever experience any problems. I had to get use to the size of the car. It is bigger than it appears. Also,as a safety feature, the back of the uld recommend that a buyer install a rear view camera in order to see if small children are behind the car.

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  Not what I came for - but... - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By john - April 12 - 7:57 pm

  We were in the market for a crossover type vehicle to replace our explorer - preferably used (after seeing the prices). We narrowed it to the Edge, Mazda MX9, and the Nissan. When we got to the lot, there was a Pacifica there - we decided to drive it since we had some time, but not really considering it as an option. We loved it!! If youre looking at this style vehicle, you cant beat the drive and comfort of the Pacifica for thousands less (for a used vehicle). Definitely an overlooked vehicle.

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  What a vehicle!!! - 2008 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Jonathan Nugent - April 12 - 9:46 am

  Blew out the Town & Country van for space, quality, comfort, and definitely the appearance. Doesnt look and feel like a van neither. Sits higher up than usual vehicles, feels safe with all-around airbags

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  Full Size SUV or Mini Van? - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By GSL - April 12 - 9:13 am

  We have 3 kids. Two require Throne car seats, our third is now the size of a small adult. We needed a car to fit all 5 us so we needed a 3rd seat. I researched all midsize SUVs with 3rd row seating. No 3rd row seat was functional or comfortable and all are hard to get to. We looked at larger SUVs (Yukon, Expedition, Tahoe). A bit to large for my wife & 200-250 a month on gas alone - uh no. A small vanity issue kept us out of minivans hence the Pacifica. Great so far. NICE style bells & whistles, all wheel drive is great (we did purchase the most comprehensive ext. warranty to cover these bells and whistles up to 100,000 miles). Great use of interior space. Working accessible 3rd row

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  Pacifica review - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By nate - April 11 - 6:39 pm

  It has been very dependable we had a trailer hitch installed and it has pulled a trailer over 200 miles one-way to our cabin with no problems.

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  Great car!! - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By bbillnana2 - April 7 - 6:36 pm

  The new 5 seater is great! You have all the comfort of a wagon/SUV, but with a sleek design. Drives excellent, plenty of cargo space, and looks cool!! I give this car an A+!!

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  Love This Vehicle! - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By JuliaL. - April 6 - 10:30 pm

  I bought this vehicle slightly used in 2006 and have not a single regret! I have three children and the space is perfect, not to big or small. The gas mileage is great, I use synthetic oil. This vehicle is a dream for a single mom like myself, very reliable. Not a problem, not a complaint here!

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  driving in comfort - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Lourdes Lazy - April 5 - 5:50 pm

  I find the Pacifica a fun and comfortable to drive. The leather seats are very nice.