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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  cant wait for lease to be up - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By linda - August 20 - 7:13 pm

  I purchased the Pacifica over a year ago. In the beginning it was nice. Gas has been an issue with it, also very little storage space. Not comfortable on a drive over 2 hrs. Warning lights pop up every time it is cold and my cruise control works 1/2 the time. It has been towed away at least 4 times in past year for lights blinking until battery dies, seat belt jams a lot, airbag light is on for no reason found by mechanics at chrysler. I get compliments on the looks of it but when asked how i like it I have to be honest and say dodge caravan is a lot better!

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  The best new middle-class SUV - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By edgood4tune - August 14 - 10:00 am

  This uniquely-designed SUV is perfect for the mom who does not want to be labeled a "soccer-mom". And sporty enough for the wanna-be "macho" dad. However, this vehicle is versatile enough that it can appeal not only to a family but to singles as well as a two- person cohabitates. The Pacifica is sleek, but sporty; fun, but reliable. In fact it feels like a sports car with its quick acceleration. We highly recommend this vehicle for anyone looking for an affordable, sporty, economical, and attractive SUV.

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  Like my Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By NJ - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Pacifica for 4 weeks and so far I have only good things to say about my car. The radio controls are a bit fussy but thats just a litle thing. The drive is solid with a good feel for the road but not stiff or rigid. It sits up a little higher than a sedan but not too high. At 5 tall being comfortable behind the wheel in very important. The adjustable pedals, seat and steering column make that a non-issue. The third row seats are not made just for children. They are roomy and comfortable for adults as well. Overall, probably the nicest car Ive owned and that includes an Acura.

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  2004 Chrysler Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Billy D - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Overall quite satisfied with the vehicle

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  Nice, but a little pricey. - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By J. Fiedoral - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Traded a big Buick Estate Wagon and find this one nimble, fun to drive and steady on the road. I was apprehensive because the Buick was very stable, but I am pleased with this one on the highway at cruising speeds up to 80 or more. Gas mileage is not great, but it burns regular and does not bankrupt you at the pump.

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  My Review - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By PacificaOwner - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The Pacifica is has wonderful styling both inside and out and has a great ride. My children love the seating options in the last two rows and frequently use different arrangements. Its a luxury family wagon that has some practical room for hauling if you fold the last row down flat (and the second row). Cannot see directly behind the vehicle when backing up and mirrors could help this problem. The wagon is a little difficult to place on the road when changing lanes on the highway.

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  04 Pacifica - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By kencro69 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Very well put together vehicle, nice solid feel. Excellent handling and very quite. The nice ride and quite interior are impressive but what really stands out is the first time you take a corner at any speed, WOW! Would be even better with a small V8. The very backseat is a little difficult for children under 7, minivan would be easier for them.

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  Double the fun - 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Dan Labrecque - August 6 - 11:53 pm

  My wife leased a 2004 Pacifica and she loves it. The only problem is that I never get to drive it. I took care of that problem, I just leased a 2005 AWD Limited Pacifica. Now the problem is keeping her away from my Pacifica! I just went to work for a new company and they let me chose any vehicle that I wanted, I didnt even have to think about it.

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  Love/Hate Relationship - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By laurheis - August 2 - 2:00 am

  My husband is in love with this car. Very smooth ride. The kids love their captains chairs. However, its been in for service 11 days already - weve owned it just over a month. Engine control computer and radio replaced, work done to power liftgate, and now we have a possible suspension problem. I dont like how noisy the engine is, but thats just a personal thing with me.

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  my baby - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By rl2004 - August 2 - 2:00 am

  love the car ,because of air bags wish it had better glovebox and better storage on center console. overall love it. gps on speedmotor makes its easy ,plus very accurate.