Underrated
The Pacifica was one of the pioneers of the hot new crossover segment. Launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, consumers had a hard time trying to figure out exactly what it was. Smaller than a minivan and different in shape than an SUV, the Pacifica seemed to break away from the mainstream trend.
Today, every automaker is looking to add one or several crossovers to their lineup. They try to create a vehicle that will answer the needs of each and everyone. Ironically, the Pacifica has slowly become the forgotten one.
Anonymous styling
If the Pacifica is a rare sight on our roads, it might be because of its exterior styling: classy but not head-turning. For 2007, Chrysler gave it a minor facelift, including new headlights and a grooved hood.
Our tester, a Limited model, featured 19-inch chrome-clad wheels and P235/55R19 tires as standard equipment. The rear end of the vehicle had also been enhanced by the addition of a dual exhaust.
New powertrain
Another change was made under the hood: Chrysler replaced the old 3.8-litre engine by a new 4.0-litre V6 that produces 253 horsepower. Although the latter is barely more potent on paper, it delivers good performance despite the vehicle's weight.
When challenged, the V6 does not appear overloaded at all, while the 6-speed automatic transmission is smooth and efficient. Fuel economy is reasonable considering the type of vehicle and the engine size.
Thanks to its all-wheel drive system and precise steering, the Pacifica offers confidence-inspiring handling on byroads and slippery tracks. It proves to be fairly easy to maneuver, but a few days are required to get used to the dimensions and distances. A back-up camera is optional, but the image on the screen lacks clarity. Also, you have to be careful about blind spots.
The Pacifica was one of the pioneers of the hot new crossover segment. Launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, consumers had a hard time trying to figure out exactly what it was. Smaller than a minivan and different in shape than an SUV, the Pacifica seemed to break away from the mainstream trend.
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| The Pacifica greatly helped popularize the crossover segment. |
Today, every automaker is looking to add one or several crossovers to their lineup. They try to create a vehicle that will answer the needs of each and everyone. Ironically, the Pacifica has slowly become the forgotten one.
Anonymous styling
If the Pacifica is a rare sight on our roads, it might be because of its exterior styling: classy but not head-turning. For 2007, Chrysler gave it a minor facelift, including new headlights and a grooved hood.
Our tester, a Limited model, featured 19-inch chrome-clad wheels and P235/55R19 tires as standard equipment. The rear end of the vehicle had also been enhanced by the addition of a dual exhaust.
New powertrain
Another change was made under the hood: Chrysler replaced the old 3.8-litre engine by a new 4.0-litre V6 that produces 253 horsepower. Although the latter is barely more potent on paper, it delivers good performance despite the vehicle's weight.
When challenged, the V6 does not appear overloaded at all, while the 6-speed automatic transmission is smooth and efficient. Fuel economy is reasonable considering the type of vehicle and the engine size.
Thanks to its all-wheel drive system and precise steering, the Pacifica offers confidence-inspiring handling on byroads and slippery tracks. It proves to be fairly easy to maneuver, but a few days are required to get used to the dimensions and distances. A back-up camera is optional, but the image on the screen lacks clarity. Also, you have to be careful about blind spots.
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| This 4.0-litre V6 is well-suited to the vehicle's needs. |