2021 Update: The Chrysler Pacifica
Having kickstarted the minivan segment in 1983 for the 1984 model year and with over 15 million of them sold since then, Chrysler has made a significant update to its popular Pacifica minivan. All-wheel-drive is now available for customers located in snowier climates while retaining its vaunted Stow ‘n Go seating capability. Other than the addition of all-wheel-drive, the front grille and all the exterior lights have been redesigned. Meanwhile, the notable plug-in Pacifica Hybrid remains part of the lineup, with an all-electric range of more than 30 miles when fully charged.
There are four Pacifica trim levels to choose from: base Touring, midrange Touring L, well-equipped Limited, and the new high-end Pinnacle trim, which brings an even more premium interior. All gas-only Pacificas come with a 287-horsepower V-6 while the Pacifica Hybrid adds an electric motor and battery to enhance fuel economy. Also, Chrysler’s all-new UConnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen comes standard. The UConnect 5 system also integrates with Alexa-enabled devices so owners can ask Alexa to start the car, lock/unlock doors, play music, and utilize many other Alexa characteristics.
As the newest and top-end version trim of the Pacifica, the Pinnacle has a unique center console modeled after the exclusive Piano Black and Caramel interior color theme and can hold plenty of items (such as a laptop) away from prying eyes. In addition, the Pinnacle’s Nappa leather seats have quilted seat side bolsters and perforated seat inserts and seat backs on all three rows along with contrast piping. There are also two fully movable lumbar comfort pillows for the second-row captain’s chairs that match the interior colors as well as a black suede headliner with Berber-construction floor mats.
Importantly for families, a tremendous amount of safety features come standard. Equipment on all Pacificas includes LED lights, Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking, automatic high beam lights, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Safety options include a 360-degree surround view camera system as well as parallel and perpendicular parking assist, part of the Safety Sphere Package. To make road trips even more comfortable, wind noise has been minimized further with new or upgraded glass and improved body sealing.
New available features include USB Type-C ports, a FamCAM interior camera which allows the driver to view the rear seat areas on the front touchscreen rather than turning around, wireless charging, and an updated Harman/Kardon sound system with updated subwoofer. Other notable options include a Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system with two 10.1-inch seatback touchscreens that add games for long road trips and a 19-speaker Harmon/Kardon audio system (20 speakers in the Pacifica Hybrid). Depending on trim level and option packages, the Pacifica can have a combined total of 12 USB Type-A and Type-C ports.
All in all, for 2021, the Pacifica should be well-positioned to remain a popular choice for minivan shoppers. With the new availability of all-wheel-drive and the allure of the plug-in hybrid option, families will likely find a version of the Pacifica that fits their needs.
