The Chrysler Pacifica minivan continues to be a force to reckon with when it comes to an affordable transportation appliance that can tote around as many as eight people with forward-thinking modern conveniences and amenities. When it comes to minivans, the Pacifica, the single unfortunate lone soldier besides its Voyager counterpart left in the Chrysler brand lineup, the Pacifica led the sales race in 2025 – and for good reason.
Despite being a little aged at the moment, the Chrysler Pacific keeps on trucking – or is it “minivanning” – with an assortment of trim variations to offer to appease a larger crowd, the largest ever considering the availability of a plug-in hybrid model. Apart from the hybrid scale, the Pacific is offered in three trim levels, starting with the base Select trim at a price of $43,945 before any fees, and then to a $49,600 Limited trim, and my test vehicle is the top Pinnacle trim in All-wheel-drive (AWD) form. Mind you, each trim can be had in AWD, which continues to be an attractive part of the versatile formula that the Pacifica offers.
Born out of the brand that started the whole minivan game, Chrysler must pride itself on such a vehicle as it is one of its two only standing offerings that continues to make us wonder if the Chrysler name will ever expand or be absorbed by the other Stellantis makes, such as Dodge. Either way, despite the model’s shortcomings, the Pacifica continues to hold up the brand quite well and gracefully ages into a time where we expect some major changes to take place very soon.
Powered by the trusted 3.6-liter V6 engine good for 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission, the Chrysler Pacifica does well out on the road for being predictable. The predictable powertrain in the AWD form inspires confidence in the driver for a well-sorted chassis that rides well and doesn’t upset with unexpected surprises. Sure, 0-60 mph may take about 8.3 seconds in the AWD setup, but there’s a lot to appreciate in such a level-playing-field vehicle, which contributes to its good sales figures. Interestingly enough, the front-wheel-drive version does the deal in about 1 second quicker, hitting 60 mph in 7.3 seconds if you curtail the front wheel spin. The plug-in hybrid version of the Pacifica comes in for acceleration at 7.5 seconds to 60 mph, but is able to save a bit more fuel in the long term, as you may expect.
The Pacific, fundamentally, hasn’t received a big update since its 2021 facelift. However, the design, updated infotainment equipment, and seating arrangements remain standing elements that consumers still want, which includes its unique Stow n’ Go seating allowing the third row to essentially disappear for a flat storage and loading floor. Moreover, the Pinnacle trim of the Pacifica elevates things deep into the luxury realm with quilted Nappa leather seats, heated/ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats with lumbar pillows, contrast stitching, simulated suede headliner, and satin chrome trim.
The versatility of the Pacifica remains well in place with its power-sliding doors that can be opened and closed through a myriad of methods, and its large power windows in the sliding doors to complement the other vast windows that have manual sunshades. Chrysler didn’t leave any stones unturned in the top-selling minivan in America for this past year. There’s even the expected safety blanket of active safety features and the latest 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen that integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard throughout the Pacifica lineup. The available Uconnect Theater Package on my test vehicle bundles up seat-back video screens along with several streaming apps and the upgraded 20-speaker Harmon/Kardon audio system.
Minivans in America continue to be a respected alternative to spending the extra money on comparable SUVs, which seemingly still cannot be the cost-cutting option against the value of current minivan offerings when you consider the size, versatility, and seating potential. With such, the Chrysler Pacifica starting at $43,945 ($58,025 as-tested) continues as a respected offering with proven driving attributes, which make the minivan a remarkably competitive segment even with just a few other options out there.
Malcolm Hogan is the founder and editor of Automotive Addicts, a trusted voice in the automotive media world for over two decades. With 20+ years of hands-on experience covering the industry, Malcolm has built a reputation for delivering honest reviews, sharp insights, and in-depth coverage of everything from new car debuts to high-performance test drives. Passionate about the evolving car culture and staying ahead of the curve, Malcolm continues to lead Automotive Addicts as a go-to destination for enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.
