2018 Chrysler Pacifica Best Buy Review

IT’S A BEST BUY BECAUSE:

The Pacifica offers class-leading horsepower and fuel economy, excellent road manners and ride quality, and an unmatched array of family-friendly features … all wrapped up in a stylish package.

BUT…

The standard Stow ‘n Go collapsible second-row seats give up fore-and-aft adjustability and a bit of cushiness in exchange for their fold-into-the-floor versatility.

WORTH NOTING:

The plug-in hybrid version of the Pacifica is the only hybrid minivan on the market; it boasts an estimated electric-only driving range of 30 miles and a city EPA rating of 80 MPGe.

WHAT IS IT?

The Pacifica is Chrysler’s minivan; it was introduced as a 2017 model that replaced the outgoing Chrysler Town and Country. Pacifica offers seating for seven or eight and is available in six trim levels: L, LX, Touring, Touring-L, Touring-L Plus, and Limited. “Regular” Pacificas are powered by a 287-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Pacifica Hybrid uses the same 3.6 V6 mated to a dual-motor electrically variable transmission. Chrysler’s class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go second-row seats offer “Easy Tilt” access to the third row (even with an empty child seat installed) and feature Stow ‘n Go Assist, which powers the front seat forward at the touch of a button for easier floor-bin access. (The Stow ‘n Go second row is not available on Pacifica Hybrid.) The third-row seats fold to the floor and Limited models offer a power-folding feature. Other available features include a Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum system; tri-pane panoramic sunroof; hands-free power liftgate and power-sliding side doors; and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, remotes, and aux/USB/HDMI input jacks. Available safety features include forward collision warning and mitigation, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitor, and a 360-degree surround-view camera.

WHAT’S NEW?

After its debut for 2017, the Chrysler Pacifica lineup gets a couple new trim levels and expanded availability of standard and optional features over most of the line. The Pacifica gets a new entry-level L model and the Pacifica Hybrid adds a more-affordable Touring L trim. All models get upgraded UConnect infotainment systems and standard rear park assist, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert.

FUEL ECONOMY

The Pacifica is EPA-rated at 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway/22 mpg combined. The Pacifica Hybrid is rated at 32 mpg combined and 84 MPGe, with an estimated all-electric driving range of 33 miles. In Consumer Guide® testing, a Pacifica Limited model averaged 25.2 mpg in about 85-percent highway driving. A Pacifica Hybrid Limited averaged 35.9 mpg in 75-percent highway driving and displayed all-electric driving ranges of around 35 miles (achieved in ideal temperatures in the 50-60-degree range).

VALUE IN CLASS

The 2018 Pacifica matches or beats its competition in terms of power, fuel economy, ride quality, and overall comfort. What cinches its Best Buy status are its exclusive Stow ‘n Go second-row seats and the unmatched fuel efficiency of its well-executed plug-in hybrid model, along with its long list of thoughtful available convenience features.

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