My Thoughts Exactly: 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
We have reviewed the Pacifica Hybrid before. Like fine wine, this plug-in minivan has improved over time.
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was the first of its kind among minivans. Not just for electrification alone. The plug-in element is also attractive for those who would like the EV experience with nominal range anxiety.
We have reviewed the Pacifica Hybrid before. Like fine wine, this plug-in minivan has improved over time. Those improvements include better electric-only range and several upgrades in trim and features. This time around, we also saw a reshuffling of trim levels – some of which include the S Appearance Package.
For those who are not familiar, the S Appearance Package adds more blacked out elements – in our case, a set of 18-inch black colored alloy wheels, black badges, grille, and other trimmings.
Our specific model is called the Select. It may seem like the lowest trim available among all Hybrid models, but don’t let that designation fool you. The Chrysler Pacifica experience is much more than a basic ol’ minivan.
The elevated feel of the Pacifica Hybrid is what attracts its loyal customers. It is an old expectation that the brand has yielded since its inception in the 1920s.
The basics remain. This tester can seat up to seven. Its shape is unmistakable and unique in its class. Even in a crowded parking lot of school drive, you can spot a Pacifica rather easily – unless the parking lot or driveway is full of Pacificas.
Our tester wears a new shade of silver – a lighter shade from the company’s signature Billet Silver Metallic. While it may look plain, the S Appearance Package adds a bit of sport to the exterior. That does help this tester’s cause.
Stepping inside is always a treat in the Pacifica. What I love about this minivan is the high degree of continuity across the board. The S Appearance package adds some light-colored piping and stitching on top of the black leather seats. It adds plenty of sportiness for the family. The seats are somewhat comfortable and somewhat firm. I was surprised that the second row seats have bolsters on them.
The driver’s area have not changed over the past few models years. The transmission is actuated by a knob and the controls work in a familiar fashion. The 10.1-inch UConnect 5 touchscreen is one of the better infotainment systems around. This tester also had the UConnect Theatre with two foldable screens for second- and third-row passengers. Not to mention, the 20-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system making things sonically pleasing.
There are some differences between the Hybrid and the “regular” Pacifica. The instrument cluster is one. There is no tachometer. Instead, there is a power meter that measures between using the gasoline engine, the electric drive system, and for recharging. There are specific readouts that show you the battery range, as well as fuel range.
On Hybrid models the second row Stow’n Go seats are not available. You simply cannot fold the seats in, because the battery pack is located exactly beneath those seats.
All told, the cargo space measures out to 140 cubic feet when you lower the second- and third-row seats. Importantly, there is 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row with a deep space underneath the bumper line.
The Hybrid’s driveline has not changed. It continues to work well. To review, the driveline consists of a Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 with two additional electric motors driven by the under-cabin battery pack. This driveline is rated with a net of 260 horsepower. This driveline is connected to a continuously variable transmission, sending power to the front wheels.
After you juice up the battery through a J1772 Level 2 plug, it should yield an all-electric range of 32 miles. However, not juicing the battery will return a decent fuel consumption average. In our case, that average was 28.5 MPG.
Our tester delivered with smooth ride quality with absorbent suspension all around to ensure that it drives along without any negative feedback from the vehicle. Handling is quite decent, some roll and lean is evident. We found that cornering was near flat below the limit.
The turning radius was just fine. Steering action offered a strong on-center with great response from its thick-rimmed wheel. Brakes are good with a solid feel at the pedal. Our Pacifica Hybrid yielded solid stops in both normal and panic situations.
The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid lineup starts from $50,960 with five trim levels to choose from. Our Hybrid Select tester with the S Appearance Package came with a sticker price of $64,205.
It’s been a couple of years since I drove any of the Chrysler Pacifica’s competitors. Yet, I have driven more of my share of these minivans – plenty of combinations from lower trim models with just the V6 to the luxurious Pinnacle Hybrid model. There was even a fleet-only Voyager thrown in for good measure.
All of these Chrysler minivans point to one thing: They’re still relevant. Sure, families are attracted to tougher looking SUVs, but do they really measure up when the children are growing – or, have grown?
That’s why the minivan remains a viable family transport option. That is also why Stellantis will continue to build the Chrysler Pacifica to meet their needs. It is also why Chrysler continues to sell the first electrified minivan – offering no apologies to its customers.
DISCLAIMER: Vehicle provided by Stellantis North America
All photos by Randy Stern