Chrysler Adds New Value-Priced Pacifica to Take on Competitors

The top-of-the-line Limited gets the top powertrain, of course, which includes standard all-wheel drive for $48,550. Its

The U.S. Government gave Pacifica its highest crash test rating of five stars for both front- and side-impact when equipped with optional side-curtain airbags. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

monochromatic exterior should add an upscale touch, while standard 19-inch chrome rims will be unique to top-line models. Again, the crossover is configured into a 3-row 6-passenger layout, with exclusive first- and second-row luxury leather heated seats, leather steering wheel and shift knob and genuine wood trim accents. Also, standard equipment includes a power glass sunroof, three-row side curtain airbag, next generation multi-stage driver and front passenger airbags, driver-side inflatable knee blocker, occupant classification system, rear park assist, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, a tire pressure monitoring system, power adjustable pedals, power liftgate, 4-wheel independent suspension equipped with premium 5-link rear suspension, 6-disc CD/DVD changer, and AM/FM/Cassette/CD radio.

Standard on all Pacificas is an extremely high safety rating. The U.S. Government gave Pacifica its highest crash test rating of five stars for both front- and side-impact when equipped with optional side-curtain airbags. The

The larger Ford Freestyle poses a true threat to the Pacifica's market share. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also named Pacifica a "Best Pick" for its frontal offset test.

As with every DaimlerChrysler Canada vehicle, all Pacificas receive a 5 year/100,000 km powertrain warranty.

While General Motors has yet to offer anything that could cause Chrysler any concern about the continued popularity of its Pacifica, other than its ill-fated Pontiac Aztek and somewhat less maligned Buick Rendezvous, Ford's Freestyle poses a true threat. It is larger inside, with a third row that truly fits adults, offers seating for up to seven occupants, features a flexible seating arrangement more amenable to cargo and is priced thousands less than even the new Pacifica Highline.