Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 2023: Test of the Week
As an automotive journalist, I’m often asked about my favorite vehicles and, more importantly, why I like them. Well, it really depends on the situation, but I can tell you that my profession has made me appreciate minivans even more. I have nothing against SUVs, but their utility aspect is often not as prominent as one would hope for in most of them. That’s why I like minivans so much. They are genuinely spacious and functional.
Now, the reason that would make me choose the Pacifica over another is the fact that it’s available in a hybrid version initially. Furthermore, it’s one of the most luxurious minivans currently available on the market. Believe me when I tell you that your kids will see you as a hero with a minivan. My daughter helps me a lot with my vehicle tests. She’s very expressive and doesn’t hesitate to tell me when she doesn’t like a model, especially when it’s challenging for her to get inside. And that’s one of the biggest advantages of a minivan. So, you can imagine that she really enjoyed the Pacifica.
Driving Experience
Fortunately, the Chrysler Pacifica still comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, and that’s one of the reasons it remains so enjoyable to drive. The hybrid version is even more pleasant since the acceleration is more immediate from the start. In the case of the hybrid version, it has a power output of 260 horsepower, which is slightly lower than the gasoline version. However, it’s more than sufficient, especially with the added torque from the electric system.
Regarding fuel consumption, Chrysler claims an average of 7.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.0 L/100 km on the highway, which seems quite fair to me. In fact, I obtained very similar data during my week of testing with the American manufacturer’s minivan.
City – Not surprisingly, the Pacifica Hybrid is most efficient in the city. It’s a substantial vehicle, and I won’t hide the fact that parking it in tight spaces isn’t particularly easy.
Country Roads – Despite its large size and weight, this vehicle moves with ease. Its smooth ride makes it very enjoyable to drive on country roads, especially those that may not be well-maintained.
Highway – If you’re looking for a vehicle for long family road trips, you won’t find anything better. The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the ultimate road trip vehicle.
Gravel Roads – I had to take a gravel road during my test week with the Chrysler Pacifica, and while the overall experience went well, I can tell you that the American manufacturer’s minivan isn’t particularly comfortable with hill starts on slippery surfaces.
Price and Equipment
Unfortunately, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is not the most affordable vehicle in its category, but its price remains very competitive considering all that it offers. The Touring-L version is available starting at $62,190. That’s before government rebates for electrified vehicles, of course. Once these rebates are applied, the price of the American manufacturer’s minivan drops to $53,492, which is already better. The Touring-L version comes with a fairly comprehensive standard equipment package, including a 10.1-inch screen, three-zone air conditioning, and more. Moving on to the Limited version, it starts at $67,190. This one adds luxury features like the dual-panel panoramic roof and hands-free liftgate. Finally, the Pinnacle version tops the range with a premium Harman Kardon audio system and a host of luxurious features. This version is also the most expensive of the lot, starting at $72,190.
Design and Technologies
It’s quite challenging to create something bold and modern when you’re pushing the limits in terms of dimensions, but that’s exactly what Chrysler has managed to do. The Pacifica is a stylish minivan, and the American manufacturer has given it a stronger personality than some SUVs. I also really like the color options, especially with the Fathom Blue Pearl as seen on the test model.
I have to say, and it’s a very positive aspect, that the Chrysler Pacifica offers one of the best infotainment systems on the market. The Uconnect system is not only smooth and fast, but it’s also very easy to navigate between different menus. It’s an intuitive and enjoyable system to use. For me, that’s the kind of thing that makes all the difference.
Recommendations
I understand that minivans might not be the dream when you’re young and buying your first cars. However, with age, experience, and especially when starting a family, this is the kind of vehicle that has a lot to offer. I know I only spent a week behind the wheel of the Pacifica Hybrid, but let me tell you that I greatly appreciated it, and I saw how much this minivan improved my daily life. In short, all of this is to say that it’s a vehicle that I highly recommend to families.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier