Say hello to the Chrysler Pacifica, a minivan that could put a little dent in the sales of the two industry leaders – Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey.
Chrysler did a nice job of creating its relatively new minivan. It features a light, yet solid body structure with a sleek, stylish exterior, and features an appealing interior that is both comfortable and smartly designed. The big news is the Pacifica is also offered as a hybrid with electric capacity, making it appealing to anyone who wants to go green.
In 2017, Chrysler bid farewell to the aging Town & Country minivan, an automobile it had produced for more than two decades with some degree of success. Realizing the peak years for minivans were in the rearview mirror, it’s a little perplexing that Chrysler didn’t waste any time in manufacturing the Pacifica.
But sales have been very steady for the Pacifica. Chrysler sold 118,274 models in 2017 and a year later that figure was nearly identical (118, 322).
What some folks might object to is the sticker price. The Pacifica Hybrid is high for a minivan, starting at right around $40,000. But there’s a $7,500 federal credit and in California there’s an additional $3,500 thanks to the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project.
In electric mode, the Pacifica goes 33 miles before a charge is required. While that’s not a large distance, it could serve as the daily commute for anyone who works close to home or is taking the kids to school and back each day.
Mileage estimates for the Pacifica Hybrid as an EV are 84 mpge. When the Pacifica switches over to a hybrid it still outperforms other minivans, possessing a mileage estimate between 28-32 mpg. And it can go roughly 520 miles before a trip to the pumps is required.
The Pacifica provides good handling, solid performance and has the versatility that folks are looking for in a minivan that seats seven and can tow up to 3,600 pounds. It has an exterior resemblance to the Chrysler 200 sedan in terms of its curvy nature, classic grille and accented taillights.
The 2019 Chrysler Pacifica comes standard with a 3.6-liter, V6 that generates 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. We found the performance met our needs in most driving situations. Despite an impressive engine, the Pacifica can be a bit sluggish thanks to the heavy battery that adds approximately 500 pounds. It goes 0-60 mph in 8.8 seconds.
The performance is fine and the Pacifica’s driving mannerisms can be applauded as well. It provides a quiet and smooth ride that will be a blessing on long trips. Wind and road noise are at a minimum and the Pacifica handles itself well enough that catching a nap as a passenger is easily accomplished
What makes or breaks most minivans is the interior. A bad one can make any family trip – large or small – a miserable journey. No worries with the Pacifica; it delivers comfort in all three rows and will entertain the kids while doing it.
2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
- Performance: 3.6-liter, V6, 287 horsepower
- Mileage estimate: 28-32 mpg (84 mpge in electric mode)
- Price estimate: $40,100 to $45,700
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain: 5 years/60,000 miles; roadside assistance: 5 years/60,000; corrosion: 5 years/unlimited
Every Pacifica model is loaded with convenience and luxury features. The recommendation here is upgrade the Pacifica to include the latest technology hardware. The 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen is a wonderful infotainment system that has terrific graphics and is easy to operate.
The Pacifica has versatility that’s appreciated when cargo space is needed in lieu of passenger room. Note that the Pacifica Hybrid second row doesn’t fold into the floor due to hybrid battery pack. But it does have fixed captain’s chairs that are extremely comfortable.
The 2019 Pacifica Hybrid appears overpriced, but note that with rebates it’s actually fairly reasonable for a minivan. This green minivan is unique and features a good interior design and has good performance.
Weidel on Wheels is featured periodically on www.tahoeskiworld.com. Auto writer Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel.
