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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  Outstanding vehicle - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Art Luttrell - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Granted,we have only had our Pacifica for 37 days, but weve had it long enough to say that it is the finest driving, finest riding vehicle we have ever been in-bar none. It is everything we wanted, and more. One interesting side note-it really seems to cause a lot of staring. If we pull up next to another vehicle at a street corner, more often than not, we notice people checking out the car.

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  Total Satisfaction - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By mcjesq - October 10 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned! I required a larger vehicle for my newborn twins, their double stroller and a host of other things I need to haul around. I feel much too hip for a mini van and a little more sophisticated than a large truck. The Pacifica is a perfect fit. I never hesitate to tell people about my joy when they stop me on the street to ask questions.

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  I Love My New Car!! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By lovingmycar - October 4 - 2:00 am

  My new Pacifica is a dream come true. With a husband who coaches youth sports and two teenagers, I am constantly transporting kids from one place to another...and I am comfortable the whole time. There is plenty of seating room, the climate control really keeps the whole vehicle comfortable, the stereo is great (my teens love it), I feel safe driving in it, and I have received tons of complements on its exterior styling.

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  Great Car! So Far... - 2008 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Brennen - September 22 - 10:06 am

  I absolutely love my Pacifica. I have the Signature Series with all the extras. Although I was worried that having so many power features could potentially mean expensive repair bills, this has not been an issue thus far. The Pacifica is extremely comfortable for four passengers, but it could have used a little more leg room in the third row. The seats are supportive, the the ride is smooth and quiet, and the engine and transmission perform well. I have had no problems at all with this car. I am extremely pleased my purchase.

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  love it - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By eli - September 18 - 9:04 pm

  No problems since ive bought it used in 07, used it in many trips - great comfort. Guess got lucky as reliability concern and so are our friends who own one. love it love it love it.

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  My New Pacifica - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Peter Scudieri - September 18 - 10:00 am

  I reciently purchased this vehicle after owing a 200 300M for 5 years. I was impressed with the quality of my previous Chrysler. The car handles great and I love the way it looks.

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  Excellent "Sports Tourer" - 2007 Chrysler Pacifica
  By 3.8L - September 13 - 5:58 pm

  Owned the Pacifica for a while now, and still love it! Wanted the base model so we would only have two rows of seats. Engine performance is very good for only 200hp and a 4,400lb curb weight. Really powerful around town, breaks the front tires loose easily. Passing power (45-70) isnt that great, but not too bad. Handles curves very well considering larger size. Surprisingly, its a very good tow vehicle. Hardly can tell the trailer 2,000lb trailer is back there. Interior has held up well, but the seats get dirty very easily. Regardless, interior is beautiful and well put together. Love the sleek exterior, the car gets many compliments. I average 22mpg. Around 18 in the city, 25 on the highway.

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  the best car experience ever - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By mr banrs - August 29 - 2:00 am

  its the best car drive

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  I love my Pacifica - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By justlivinlife - August 24 - 10:39 am

  I bought my 2005 Touring Pacifica in June of 2005, and have love it ever since. I have put 95,000 miles on, It has not had any mechanical problems. It actually needs its first repair, which is why Im online looking for information. The Pacifica needs a EGR sensor. I only have one issue with it. With just one child at home now, I feel that it is too big.

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  Great Ride - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By BillyG. - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Real good time to select AWD version of this vehicle. Handles well in snow and nasty weather. Interior room a real plus. Ample amount of room for six adults with third row of seating. Instrument layout very attractive also.