2017 Chrysler Pacifica: First Impressions
CARS.COM — The minivan has saved Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ bacon more than once, and despite being the grandfather of the segment, FCA’s minivans no longer dominate it due to the popularity of many solid competitors. It’s definitely time for a new Chrysler minivan, and the automaker’s new model debuting at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit was worth the wait. With the 2017 Pacifica, Chrysler has delivered a powerful punch, if not quite a knockout.
Related: More 2016 Detroit Auto Show News
Chrysler claims that when it arrives, it will be the largest, safest, most fuel-efficient, quickest and most powerful van in the segment. It will certainly be one of the most stylish; the new Pacifica is nothing like the outgoing van, with a longer, lower and extremely sleek look that has a vaguely Asian flair to it, especially in the D-pillar angle.
There are definite elements of the Chrysler family styling, from the shape of its front headlights and grille to the character lines down its side — it’s obvious that this van comes from the same brand as the Chrysler 200 sedan. The look is distinctive, and if not for the sliding side doors, might even be taken for a crossover instead of a minivan. The horizontal orientation of the taillights, instead of Chrysler’s traditional vertical orientation, accentuates the width of the van, while the blacked-out, wraparound rear glass gives it a futuristic, space-age look.
Inside, the new Pacifica is also attractive with upscale materials and thoughtful design touches that again recall the 200 sedan’s look and feel. The flush-mounted Uconnect touch-screen is a slick update, giving the dashboard a more finished, expensive look.
The lower position of the passengers in the van also helps with ingress and egress, with a lower step-in height. The front seats are comfortable, with plenty of room and space, and even the second-row Stow ‘n Go seats are a definite improvement – they’re larger and more properly shaped for human occupation. What’s more, stowing them into the van’s floor is still dead simple. The seats also tilt forward, enabling you to keep a child seat strapped into the seat and still access the third row. The third row is decent as well, with room enough for full-sized people and not just children. The overhead three-pane glass roof helps to create a sense of spaciousness, especially in the third row.
If you’d rather have fuel economy over Stow ‘n Go convenience, the Hybrid is an intriguing option. The plug-in hybrid, FCA’s first, should provide 30 miles of electric-only range before converting to more conventional hybrid operation.
Overall, the new Pacifica seems to tick all the boxes, providing all the amenities that a minivan owner wants and needs, wrapped in a decidedly attractive, modern package. We look forward to putting it up against the industry’s best.
