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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  Love this car - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By tmcpl - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Traded in a 300M and cant believe the improvement in the build quality between the two cars. Excellent ride, very comfortable, and easy in and out. Compares favorably with MDX and Murano but when you include incentives this is the best deal on the road. My wife and kids love this car.

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  A Perfect 10 - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Anthony - January 14 - 11:53 pm

  Having leased or owned Beemers, Benzs, and Lexus ES300, I feel qualified to say the Pacifica rides as good if not smoother than the aforementioned. The incredible ting is its like having an suv on top of that excellent ride. It almost doesnt matter what you pay for this (within reason) because it is a special vehicle. For room, comfort, elegance and style, it takes the cake !!

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  Chrysler Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Martha Sanders - January 9 - 10:00 am

  The car is extremely quiet. It is an eyecatching experience everytime I drive it.

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  Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Jean Taylor - January 1 - 10:00 am

  I found the car to ride very nicely and the adjustability of the seats for the driver and passenger helped. I like the both the interior and exterior design much better than the Murano and Infinity FX, which look very masculine. The cargo cover is much better than either also, because it can be moved up to cover more interior space. I like the weight and believe it gives the car more roadability. I was not interested in a car that jumps out of the gate, but prefer a smooth and pleasant ride and feel. The exterior color selection is a nice variety and the car looks good in any of them.

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  Excellent vehicle! - 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Scott - December 27 - 3:12 pm

  I would start by suggesting that readers cast a critical eye toward some of these "reviews"--their validity is questionable. A few things Id debunk. First, Im 63" and have no trouble getting in and out or finding a comfortable driving position. My Pacifica Limited is my work vehicle and I bought it party due to its long haul comfort. I find no lack of interior storage. From the center console and door pockets to the glovebox and the empty Stow N Go compartments--theres considerable storage. Someone suggested that there is no discernible difference between the new Pacifica and the former Town and Country. Absolute rubbish--after spending considerable time in a previous gen van I can tell you that the differences are considerable. Youll notice the same sentiment from professional automotive reviews as well. Ive accumulated just over 4000 miles in 2 months and performance, fuel economy and ride/handling are excellent. I had questioned getting the 20" wheel and tire package but am pleased with the appearance. They also have no adverse effect on the ride/handling balance. The seats are comfortable in any position and stow quickly when I need to haul materials over people. Controls are fairly intuitive and my gas mileage has been respectable given my driving characteristics. My dealership experience was solid, there have been no problems so far and Id recommend anyone in the market consider driving a Pacifica.

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  Sweet Ride - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By shirleym - December 26 - 10:00 am

  A classic stylish look and strong appearance on the road, this vehicle is an attention-getter. The interior says you are special with leather enveloped steering wheel, controls that put you into the 21st century. A navigation system (optional), 6 CD-DVD (optional), and FWD or 4WD. With the click of a button you can be driving a standard or an automatic, very clever. The bonus is knowing that Mercedes had a hand in building this dream ride. Test drive one and you will be sold.

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  I hate SUVs, but... - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Sssdfg - December 26 - 10:00 am

  I would never even test an SUV - thought they were too high and way too ugly - but saw the Pacifica in a showroom, took it for a spin, and got hooked. Fast. This is the best set of wheels Ive ever had!

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  pacifica - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By janrnowicki - December 23 - 1:00 am

  I am 67 years old and have had many vehicles. The Chrysler Pacifica is the most beautiful comfortable vehicle that I ever owned. My wife had a back operation 7 years and comfort is very important. The Pacifica fullfills all the comforts that my wifes back requires.It even rides smoother than our 3 previous Buicks. The exterior and interior looks far surprass al other vehicles.

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  With Correct Marketing, Its a winner! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By ramzey28 - December 20 - 2:00 am

  Bought about a month ago, this is a great concept. A good vehicle for someone getting out of a minivan. Loaded to the 9s. Smooth, handles well, quiet, responsive. Would like to see a 5 speed automatic, and rear sensors. They need to market this better and show the true performance of this vehicle. This out shines most of the competition.

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  Smiling in my Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By David K - December 14 - 2:00 am

  The Pacifica is a great looking car and a wonderfully comfotable car to drive and ride in. Seats 6 adults with great comfort. This car sits a bit higher then most cars but not as high as an SUV making it easy to get in and out of but still offering a terrific view of the road. The car handles really well and drives with a solid ride. Very classy looks both inside and out. The gas mileage is reasonable for this car (I am averaging 18mpg in city driving) but it could use a little more power.