Even though minivans in general provide the best bang for the buck because of their affordable pricing, immense passenger and cargo space, and all-around convenience (who can deny the convenience of sliding doors?), their popularity keeps diminishing each year. People rather buy the “trendier” crossovers and SUVs, not realizing that most modern crossovers are nothing more than a tall station wagon or fancier looking minivan in disguise.
Chrysler is ditching the old Town & Country nameplate and replacing it with the new Pacifica, which is designed to lure modern family car buyers with slick design and a feature-rich interior. It may very well be one of the best equipped and modern minivans in this segment.
Design
The all-new Pacifica’s aerodynamic and sculpted shape follows a windswept profile that works harmoniously with the vehicle’s function.
It spent more than 400 hours in the wind-tunnel to focus on reducing drag and achieve maximum efficiency. LED taillights, which create the Chrysler brand signature illumination, are evident, along with fog lamps and chrome accent bezels. Complementing the new platform is a selection of wheel designs ranging from 17 to 20-inch polished aluminum wheels.
Performance
As for engine choices, there are two selections: the 3.6L Pentastar VVT V6 and the all-new hybrid version — first in its class.
The non-hybrid engine, which has variable valve timing, produces 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque with up to 1,633 kg towing capability. The hybrid system produces a total of 260 hp — it can travel up to 53 km on electric power and delivers 911 km of range on a full tank and a full battery charge. Chrysler claims the hybrid engine can get up to 2.42 litres/100Km, impressive indeed.
Posting a best-in-class fuel economy figure of 8.4 litres/100 km for the gas-powered version, the Pentastar engine is impressive for such a large vehicle.
On the highway, the Pacifica is smooth and comfortable. The road noise is low, but the V6 engine is a little gruff. The handling is average at best especially compared to the Honda Odyssey but it’s predicable and easy to manage.
Environment
Chrysler has achieved a stylish and modern interior that stands out, with comfortable seating for eight. The configuration includes a removable centre seat in the second row. In all three rows of seating, occupants will notice the spacious legroom and headroom.
The focus for the Pacifica was the functionality and versatility of a family on the move.
This flexibility is achieved with the exclusive Stow ’n Go in-floor seating and storage and cargo system. Gone are the days of struggling to remove the seats from a vehicle. This system is easy to use and when the seats are in their upright position the in-floor bins can store everything from toys to sporting equipment.
Every row of seating enjoys a sunroof thanks to the Pacifica’s three panoramic panel layout.
Situated in the rear, as an option, is an onboard vacuum. Its hose is long enough to reach all nooks and crannies of the van.
A rotary e-shift dial cleans up the look of the dash and makes gear selection a breeze.
A five inch Uconnect touch screens come standard in the centre console and a 8.4-inch screen is optional. Two 10-inch screens in the back keep rearward passengers entertained thanks to the system that allows separate media or games play simultaneously.
Passengers can stay charged and connected with standard first row USB charging ports and two 12-volt auxiliary power outlets. Optionally you can have second and third-row USB charging ports and a 115-volt auxiliary power outlet.
Features
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica starts at $36,945 and currently there are five versions to select from.
Safety is very important for a family car and there are more than 100 standard and available features. These features include a surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control and forward collision alert. The Stow ’n Go seats are standard.
There are literally hundreds of convenience features, but one of the most handy is the hands-free power lift gate and dual sliding doors feature.
Fuel efficiency numbers (L/100km) are 12.9 city and 8.4 highway.
Thumbs Up
It’s one of the most modern minivans in the market, with plenty of features and options inside and out. The hybrid is unique in the marketplace.
Thumbs Down
It’s still a minivan at its core which means that it’s practical but not all that fun to drive. It can get pricey when optioned to the limit.
The Bottom Line
If you want a family hauler that can provide the utility of a van without looking too dokry, then check out the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica.
