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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  Yes, A Chrysler - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Myataman - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I never thought I would own a Chrysler product but fell in love with the styling on a trip through the dealership. Bought the Pacifica after a few test drives and a full scrutinization of the vehicle. After 4 weeks I do not regret my decision. An excellent ride, many great comfort and convenience features and a great exterior appearance make this car a joy to drive. Not all things are perfect however. The seats could be longer front to rear and the arm rests do not compliment the other high grade interior appointments. Also the floor mats where clearly an afterthought that will benefit will-fit mat providers. All-in-all though it is a super car.

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  Its not a wagon - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By zlrperry - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle to own.

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  first week of the pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By chefjaysen - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Just got it and I must say that it is the best bang for the buck. I drove every suv in the class and I loved this one the most. I didnt think I was goin to purchase it but when I did the math I got a fully loaded car for less then all the others.

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  Chrysler Pacifica AWD - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Jim Crockett - October 8 - 1:23 pm

  Wonderful long distance cruiser-- interstate gas mileage @ 70mph is 22.4 mpg on 89 octane--great for 4780 lb. car! Seats and interior layout excellent. Infinity stereo great. Only negative is side vision on rear mirrors that is correctable slightly with spot convex glued on mirrors as an aid. I recommend AWD-- was forced off inside lane of I-95 by truck at 75 mph and passed ahead with two right wheels on pavement and 2 left wheels on grass. The car did not slip at all with the AWD, which probably saved my life. I intend to replace this car in the next few months with another Pacifica AWD, since I drive approximately 4000 miles/month. I have twice recommended the hemi to Chrysler as 06 option

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  Great Vehicle! - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Tara2490 - October 6 - 6:50 pm

  Great to drive! Very classy looking vehicle. I was torn on what color to choose...ended up with red and I am thrilled with it! It is very comfortable and roomy. The kids are finally NOT kicking the front seats (which happened regularly in my Town & Country)

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  Good value for your money - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Julian - September 30 - 8:38 pm

  Great ride, lots of room, very nice looking vehicle, surprisingly good mileage especially on the highway. Seats are quite comfortably. A great value for the money.

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  Excellent Car for the Money - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By turksoldier - September 28 - 2:32 pm

  I have a fully loaded limited AWD. This car has everything from GPS to back up camera, bluetooth , 4 heated seats and DVD player, not to forget the Sirius radio and only for 31K. The ride is so smooth and very powerful. The suspension is smooth but you still have the control of the car. The interior is very luxurious. 255 hp is under the hood when needed.

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  Nice, comfortable - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By vince120 - September 24 - 2:15 pm

  20,000, 2.5 years into my base Pacifica and everything is going fine. Very easy to drive, more than adequate pickup, good response and plenty of base features have made this car easy to own. Milaege is low of course and its not easy to park, the doors seem like they are a foot thick! When my lease is up Ill consider purchasing this car.

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  Well worth considering - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Jeff - September 22 - 10:43 am

  Owned this car for 2 years. Drove over 2000 miles this summer on trip with wife and two small kids. Great ride, comfortable, not bad gas mileage and enough space. For the features and luxury, very good value. Fairly reliable, never stranded. Biggest problem has been air pressure monitoring system - replaced 2x. In single car accident and no one hurt - very safe. Car repaired and like new.

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  Great car for the money - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Carol - September 22 - 10:21 am

  I have the Spring Edition Lot of bells and whistles for the money. Beautiful interior. Smooth ride.