automobile
The Chrysler Pacifica minivan continues to be a force to be reckoned with when it comes to affordable transportation equipment that can carry up to eight people and features forward-thinking modern amenities and conveniences. When it comes to minivans, the Pacifica, the only unfortunate lone wolf alongside its Voyager counterpart in the Chrysler brand lineup, is the only unfortunate lone wolf leading the sales race in 2025 – and for good reason.
Even though the Chrysler Pacific is a little long in the tooth at the moment, it continues to operate as a truck – or is it “minivanning” – and offers a range of trim levels to satisfy a larger crowd, the largest ever given the availability of a plug-in hybrid model. Aside from the hybrid version, the Pacific is offered in three trim levels, starting with the base Select trim priced at $43,945 before fees and then up to the Limited trim at $49,600. My test vehicle is Pinnacle’s top trim with all-wheel drive (AWD). However, every trim is also available with all-wheel drive, which continues to be an attractive part of the versatile formula that the Pacifica offers.
Born from the brand that launched the whole minivan game, Chrysler must be proud of a vehicle like this, as it is one of its only two existing offerings, which continues to make us wonder if the Chrysler name will ever expand or be adopted by the other Stellantis brands like Dodge. Either way, despite the model’s shortcomings, the Pacifica continues to hold up quite well to the brand, aging gracefully into a time where we’re expecting some big changes very soon.
Powered by the proven 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, the Chrysler Pacifica impresses with its predictability on the road. The predictable powertrain in AWD form inspires driver confidence in a well-sorted chassis that handles well and isn’t thrown off by unexpected surprises. Sure, 0-60 mph acceleration takes about 8.3 seconds in all-wheel drive, but there’s a lot to like about such a level-playing field vehicle, which contributes to its strong sales numbers. Interestingly, if you reduce front wheel spin, the front-wheel-drive version gets the job done in about a second quicker, reaching 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The plug-in hybrid version of the Pacifica accelerates to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, but as expected can save a little more fuel in the long run.
Basically, the Pacific hasn’t received a major update since its facelift in 2021. However, the design, updated infotainment equipment and seating layout are still consumer-desired features, which also include the unique Stow n’ Go seats, which essentially disappear the third row to create a flat storage space and cargo floor. Additionally, the Pacifica’s Pinnacle trim elevates things deep into luxury territory with quilted Nappa leather seats, heated/ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats with lumbar cushions, contrast stitching, a faux suede headliner and satin chrome trim.
The Pacifica’s versatility is maintained with its power sliding doors that can be opened and closed in a variety of ways and its large power windows in the sliding doors that complement the other large windows with manual sun shades. Chrysler has left no stone unturned over the past year to build the best-selling minivan in America. There’s even the expected security blanket of active safety features and the latest 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen that integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standards across the Pacifica lineup. The Uconnect Theater package available in my test vehicle bundles seatback video screens, as well as multiple streaming apps and the upgraded 20-speaker Harmon/Kardon audio system.
Minivans continue to be a respected alternative in America to spending the extra money on comparable SUVs, which given the size, versatility and seating options, still may not seem to be the cost-cutting option compared to the value of current minivan offerings. That means the Chrysler Pacifica, starting at $43,945 ($58,025 as tested), remains a well-respected model with proven driving characteristics that make the minivan a remarkably competitive segment, even when there are few other options.
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Malcolm Hogan is the founder and editor of ArticleSubmission.news, a trusted voice in the world of automotive media for over two decades. With more than 20 years of hands-on experience in the industry, Malcolm has earned a reputation for delivering honest reviews, incisive insights and in-depth coverage of everything from new car debuts to high-performance test drives. Malcolm is passionate about the evolving automotive culture and always stays one step ahead of the times. He continues to make ArticleSubmission.news a destination for enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
