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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  Chrysler Pacifica - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By jantonice - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car around 2 months now and Ive had several annoying problems with some of the dasboard display mechanisms. I have had to have two components replaced in the first two months. Ive also had a recall already. The car is comfortable to ride in but a bit sluggish upon initial accelaration. It does very well in the snow which is the reason I purchased this SUV in the first place. It is also great for kids and pets.

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  Pacifica Great Ride ! - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Janene Reed - October 4 - 10:00 am

  I am very impressed with my Pacifia . Super comfort and plenty of room for the front and kids in the rear seats . I love the styling and attention I get with this car ! I have had NO problems and feel this car will last me along time .

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  Hooked on my Chrysler - 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Eliot C. - October 4 - 1:16 am

  I have owned as many as 4 Chrysler vans ( and convertibles) over the years. My present van is a 2003 Linited loaded with 250K ++ miles that does NOT burn oil and gets the rated gas mileage still. It drives like great auto still highway and city. It tools along without vibrations and tracks true. Road sounds have been my biggest complaint not noted in the Pacifa at all. Of course I have maintained my car extremly well with synthetic oils and replacement of mechanical accessories when they fail but NEVER touched the engine save for a rebuilt transmission and a valve and oil pan gasket change. It has been safe and comfortable and hauled tons of people and gear, furniture art and all manner of materials in and out (roof rack). I have gotten my moneys worth and more. Now it comes time to admit that I am ready for the new state of the art van although mine still looks great with minor rust and small dings etc. I test drove the Pacifica a number of times this year and researched the idea of a new car. I want a one year old because I do not want that first years depreciation. It exceeds my needs and demands for a van or auto. I love the visibility, the safety of a heavier vehicle, and the mass of structure to protect me, my children, grandchildren and friends, clients etc..and all the features the Pacifica carries. Not enough color choices. I drive a car a Long time so I have to live with a color I like inside and out. Eliot

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  If youre tall .... - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By PA Commuter - October 2 - 4:46 am

  We recently bought an 04 Pacifica. It is very pleasing to look at inside and out but there are some definite issues with the car. First, 250 hp seems like a lot but it is a bit of a dog with the AWD (15.3 mpg avg to boot, yikes!). Basically it is as fast as the minivan you are probably looking to replace, no better. Second, if you are over 62" pay attention to front seat comfort. The seats are a bit too firm for my tastes and dont go back far enough for me so unfortunately commuting isnt the pleasure I expected. Overall, I think the car is a good value as a used vehicle. Its pleasing on the eye inside and out. It just needs more power and a more comfortable driving position.

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  2004 Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Len Petkun - September 28 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle has been problem free. Very quiet ride. Great sound system.

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  best SUV on the road so far - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By nj - September 28 - 10:00 am

  Look at MDX smaller gas tank and less driving range and less room overall. Explorer Ford need I say more. BMW X5 no room Big Price tag.X3 what is it? Discovery, Finally it is no more. Land Rover LR3 great looking has all the goodies "its a wait and see" Giant Price tag!!(Ford, get real) MB MLs If I want to buy a Merc made in USA, Oh wait I got one its called Pacifica!! Mls are all made here and are no better than any other American made car. Don’t pay the extra for the label. Toyota and Lexus, same thing different tag. Great trucks but I think they think German only when they price them. Earth to Japan are you there?

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  No Problems - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Dr. B - September 28 - 10:00 am

  I have to say after reading the previous reviews I am struck by the fact people writing the reviews either seem to love or hate this automobile. I find it to be a fantastic car. More comfortable than my wifes E-class Mercedes, better features and far more reliable. I really cant think of a thing to say negative. Some others have complained about the MPG but, I find that a little silly. This is a BIG auto with a 250 BHP engine. What do you expect??? 17+ MPG in town is rather good. Great highway car, like riding a magic carpet.

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  Want Junk--Buy 2005 Pacifica - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By bob15 - September 28 - 10:00 am

  Bad transmission from factory. As soon as we got home it leaked in the garage. Total miles on car 285.

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  Pacifica 2-Year Owner Review - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By 2 Yr Pacifica Owner - September 28 - 5:08 am

  The 2004 Pacifica AWD is a very nice vehicle overall, from the fantastic exterior design to the very spacious and comfortable interior. This vehicle has been very reliable and a pleasure to drive for the past two years. This vehicle could have been rated an excellent vehicle by me, if Chrysler would have improved the following areas: Increase engine power add vision system to increase rear-view sight during parking improve awful vanity mirror lighting add durable cover to top of rear bumper to protect it from cargo damage Add identical upgraded 19-inch rim option for spare tire add video screen to dash for front passenger improved difficult 2nd row seating access to 3rd row seating.

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  very satisfied - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By db - September 23 - 9:13 am

  My wife and I really enjoy our Chrysler Pacifica. We traded in our Dodge Stratus to get our Pacifica and although they are different types of transportation we enjoyed our Stratus but the view that we get from our Pacifica is much better. We had great success with the Stratus and so far the Pacifica has by far exceeded our expectation. We have gotten between 25 and 28 miles per gallon depending on travel conditions. I would recommend this vehicle to any one. I would have liked to have goten the 3.8 that was offered in the 2005 but it wasnt offered in the 2006. I know the 3.5 offers more power but I dont tow anything and the 3.8 got better milage. I give the Pacifica 5 stars.