2017 Chrysler Pacifica | Consumer Guide Auto

2017 Chrysler Pacifica

Pros: Outstanding passenger and cargo versatility; excellent ride and handling balance; quiet cabin; class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go seats; stylish looks

Cons: Some complicated touchscreen controls; Stow ‘n Go seats are a bit less comfortable than conventional second-row seats

CG Says: Chrysler replaces its aged Town & Country minivan with the all-new Pacifica for 2017. (If the Pacifica name sounds familiar, that’s because it was used on a crossover SUV that Chrysler sold from 2004 to 2008.) The new Pacifica minivan is slated to be Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ lone minivan offering–the Dodge Caravan will be dropped after the current generation and will not be replaced. The Pacifica rides a new platform that is around 250 pounds lighter and 30% stiffer structurally than the outgoing Town & Country. The class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go stowable second-row seats return, and they now feature an Easy Tilt feature that makes third-row access easier. Pacifica’s max cargo volume checks in at a best-in-class 140.5 cubic feet. Conventional Pacificas are powered by a 287-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. A plug-in hybrid model that combines the V6 with two electric motors for a total of 260 horsepower; Chrysler estimates a 30-mile all-electric driving range and up 80 MPGe in city driving. Pacifica’s available features include a tri-pane panoramic sunroof; Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum cleaner; and a dual-screen rear-seat Bluray/DVD entertainment system complete with a touchpad remote control and aux, USB, and HDMI jacks for each screen. The Chrysler Town & Country had aged to the point of being an also-ran in the minivan segment, but the new Pacifica puts Chrysler back at the head of the minivan class. Pacifica is surprisingly stylish inside and out, its all-around dynamic performance is class-competitive, and its passenger and cargo versatility is unmatched. Also, the hybrid model promises to deliver a new level of fuel-efficiency to the minivan class. If you’re shopping for a family hauler, the Pacifica should be on your list.

The Facts

Class	Minivan
Body Style(s)	Minivan
Passenger Count	7
Drive Wheels	front-wheel drive
Manufacturer	Chrysler
Nation of Manufacture	Canada
Base Prices	LX: $28,595 Touring: $30,495 Touring-L: $34,495 Touring-L Plus: $37,895 Limited: $42,495 Hybrid Premium: $41,995 Hybrid Platinum: $44,995