First Glance
It seems Chrysler is taking the approach to the Pacifica this way: let's please everyone. Chrysler categorizes the Pacifica as a "crossover" and often refers to it as a "Sports Tourer." I suppose it means Chrysler is combining the best features of both a minivan and an SUV. But I think it really means that it's a minivan for folks who don't want to be seen in a minivan and an SUV for folks who really have no desire to own a truck but still sorta need a vehicle with more capabilities than minivans.Unlike most trucks, the Pacifica actually has a very reasonable, even car-like, step-in height but its size can take a bit of getting used to, particularly if you're coming to it from a regular sedan. Not that it's all that much bigger than other cars in its class, rather it's really quite heavy, which can have a negative effect on both performance and fuel economy. On the highway, the Pacifica handles and rides like a luxury car. I found the ride more European than American. That is, not harsh, but certainly more firm than the traditional American sedan. Actually, it's probably there in the ride quality where DaimlerChrysler's German engineering expertise shows to best effect.
In the Driver's Seat
It's up to you to decide for yourself if it's mind-boggling but here's a sampling: Climate control: 14 buttons and switches (some with multiple functions); sound system: 31 controls on the dash plus two switches on the underside of the steering wheel (each with three functions); cruise control: 6 steering wheel mounted buttons; driver's power seat: 17 discrete functions; passenger's seat control panel 6 functions; and, finally, the navigation system: 11 buttons. Excessive?
Regardless, I found the driver's seat a comfortable place to spend long periods of time. And with both the second and third rows of seats folded flat you've got acres of room to carry big or bulky stuff. That third row of seats deserves a qualification, though. It's limited space really says "children only."
On the Road
Both AWD and FWD are offered in the Pacifica but before you automatically check the AWD box, I would ask you to reflect on my driving impressions during the 700 miles I put on my Pacifica Limited AWD during my test week. Five hundred of those miles were on the Coquihalla, which is a divided highway running through and over the Cascade Mountains in British Columbia. I drove the Pacifica from Vancouver to Kamloops and back in one day - a distance of about 500 miles. I encountered the usual conditions one meets in the mountains in March - rain, freezing rain, snow, slush and sunshine in about equal measures.My impression was the AWD compromised the performance of this car at higher altitudes, especially when climbing long hills. The standard 3.5L V-6 produces 250hp and 253 lb-ft of torque but on the long hills it felt like half that power because of the extra friction from the AWD and perhaps the "ancient" 4-speed automatic transmission. In fact, the Pacifica needed more torque and more gears. When I was going through the slushy sections, the AWD gave me scant comfort. I would have preferred to have a decent set of snows. Still, I drove very fast much of the way and I got 18 mpg so, everything considered, that's not too shabby.
Journey's End
Some critics have suggested the Pacifica needs a V-8 but I don't agree. I do agree more spunk is needed under the hood and for that, I have some suggestions. Diesels. The 3.2L diesel from the E-Class Mercedes (sedan) or even the 2.7L diesel from the Dodge Sprinter (truck). Either engine would provide the Pacifica with vastly superior all around performance - especially passing on hills - than its current can. An upgraded transmission is in order, too.
No matter which version you buy you'll get a well-mannered luxury car. But with only one available engine you're getting a heavy vehicle that needs more power than is currently offered.
