2021 Chrysler Pacifica | Review & Road Test

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Though vividly pragmatic, minivans like the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica have a cool side. I mean, not traditionally cool but stick with me. For a mobile storage unit, the Pacifica has some stylistic swagger.

Inside, Chrysler’s van is well suited for comfortably hauling people and cargo. Plus, there are cupholders and small-item storage throughout for whatever weird crap your passengers absolutely can’t live without. This particular Pacifica seats 7 but 8-passenger accommodations are available.

Further bolstering the Pacifica’s usability cred are easily accessed child-seat LATCH points, tons of storage space behind the 3rd row, and, of course, Chrysler’s beloved Stow ‘N Go 2nd-row seats.

Be warned, Stow ‘N Go is not included on the Pacifica hybrid because the subfloor is where the batteries go. Speaking of…the electrified Pacifica is actually a plug-in hybrid that can cover about 30 miles on electricity alone, it recharges in just a few hours with a 240-volt charge, and, when burning gas, it’s crazy efficient for a minivan (30 MPG combined). Ok, how does Chrysler’s mobile responsibility vault drive?

As you might’ve guessed, I am dead inside, but that’s not the Chrysler Pacifica’s fault. It accelerates briskly, absorbs bumps with ease, and corners oddly well. That’s kinda fun…even for me.

Propelling the standard Pacifica is a 3.6-liter V6 (287hp, 262 lb-ft) and a 9-speed automatic transmission that, in concert, deliver smooth acceleration and reasonable fuel economy (19city/28hwy FWD) And in a boon for folks who, unlike Angelenos, experience different season, you can equip your Pacifica with all-wheel drive. Yeah, the system dings fuel economy a touch (17city/25hwy AWD).

Sadly, you can’t get all-wheel drive with the hybrid. But, good news, the all-wheel-drive components don’t impede on the Stow N Go seats.

From a feature perspective, the base $35k Pacifica Touring trim comes nicely equipped with power sliding doors, a power liftgate, 3-zone climate control, a 10.1-inch Uconnect infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Audio, full-speed adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot warning.

Venture up the trim ladder and you’ll uncover delights like a 360-degree camera system, heated and ventilated front seats, the FamCam for observing and judging rear seat behavior, and a vacuum cleaner you can use to actually clean the vehicle…or just toy around with like a child. Fun!

To maximally distract your flock, consider the Uconnect theater Group package, in addition to hands-free side doors, heated second-row seats, and a hands free liftgate, the package adds dual 10.1-inch screens, wireless headphones, a Blue-ray player, and pre-loaded games. Good news, Queen’s Gambit fans, chess is included. If those screens don’t do the job, the optional 20-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system should drown out passengers who insist on conversing. Hush up now, children. Daddy’s in the zone.

And now, let’s take a moment to acknowledge the comically indulgent Pacifica Pinnacle trim. For a spicy $53-large, it imparts the Pacifica with platinum chrome exterior trim, Nappa leather seats in all three rows, matching lumbar pillows for the 2nd row, and a redesigned center console Chrysler calls the “Ultra Console”. Classy.

Among the Pacifica’s well-regarded competition are the stalwart Honda Odyssey, which offers neither a hybrid powertrain or all-wheel drive, and the highly stylized Toyota Sienna, which does offer all-wheel drive and only comes with a non-plug-in hybrid powertrain.

I’ve said it before, you don’t have to be a parent to like the Chrysler Pacifica. Its features, design, and clever engineering can appeal to anyone. But if you have a family or cargo you treat like family, the Pacifica minivan is a lovely way to move it around.

00:00 2021 Chrysler Pacifica
0:34 Interior Review
2:57 Pacifica Hybrid
3:20 Road Test
4:19 Prices & Features
6:09 Competitors

[RichardShelton]

We're in our 70's, knee replacements and all, and our grandkids live 1000 miles away. A mini-van was the perfect choice for us to haul stuff across the country for our family. We love our mini-van! Our first mini-van was when our kids were little, now it's just the circle of life.

[themightymrpink]

I’d take this over any three row crossover any day. The amount of usable cargo room, leg space, and practicality that a minivan offers you is unmatched.

[HonJazzz]

Minivans are the best vehicles you can buy when it comes to function. It’s just that none of us want to admit that we like them.

[chaddarnold]

We rented one and drove 3000 miles in a week. Lots of cargo, comfortable and plenty of power

[frankleespeaking]

All jokes aside, a minivan is the Swiss Army knife of the auto industry.

[jimcole]

This is by far the king of minivans. This S model is awesome. Not a van fan but I would get this.

[smokeu]

I must be getting old, because this appeals to me.

[FinancialShinanigan]

Can't wait for the Hellcat version!

[zaidkidwai]

These are the best rental cars for family vacations.

[dygardion]

I’m not even a father and I know how practical and useful minivans are!

You said I’m dead inside 🤣🤣 #relate

[fzrNick]

Just ordered one yesterday (Touring-L with black S interior). Great video - I love how you hit the key points quickly (that a lot of the other 2021 Pacifica reviews seem to miss). Two small points - the hands-free doors doesn't mean hit the button on the remote like you show (all trims have that) - it means you can open by placing your foot underneath the sliding doors or rear door if your hands are full. You mention that the hybrid doesn't have 2nd row stow-n-go which is correct, but the Pinnacle trim also does not have 2nd row stow-n-go. The upgraded, bucket second row seats in the Pinnacle are too big - but the storage is still there under the floor for whatever else you want.

[peppermaster]

I LOVE THAT FACT THAT THIS IS A REVIEW FOR A MINIVAN AND THIS GUY IS DEFINITELY MAKING SURE THAT HE IS TALKING TO THE YONGER PARENTS. THE 30 to 40 your olds. THIS ACTUALLY MADE GAVE ME A NEW OUTLOOK ON MINI VANS. AND THIS IS ONE I DEFINITELY WANT NOW.

[sweez_playz]

This car is the only car keeping the Chrysler name alive

[matthewhybel]

Iove the room in that van . The whole family can go places in one vehicle and still be comfortable while traveling to your destination.

[miguelircontar]

This is the best looking van in the lineup

[coupleinarizona]

Hello. So we have a charger scatpack, a challenger and now a 2020 Pacifica. Same as the one here in color. Except the seats. But let me tell you guys. It’s a fun vehicle to drive. Maybe I’m getting old. But oh well. We drove from Arizona to Illinois down to Florida and back. Enjoyed the U S of A in style. If you’re looking for a van. This is it.

[senseihEnRY]

I still don't understand people who thinks minivan are boring and less cool than large suv, take a good look at modern minivans! Especially Pacifica and KIA Sedona, they are legit beauty

[southshore]

Wow, this minivans came along way I still remember the 1984 Chrysler/ Plymouth Voyager 😏
Good review Micha 👍

[Wulf_]

I’d drive this around with the second row stowed 100% of the time. Makes for some amazing leg room :-)

[johnnicpon]

The exterior styling on the previous Pacifica was more flowing and elegant, the new one is rather generic. Also its best to order, drop the vacuum and get the spare tire kit. Get a flat in the middle of nowhere or late at night and you will understand the importance of an actual spare. The gunk they give you only works for a small puncture, if that. The Sienna is a quality vehicle but unfortunately the front end looks like somebody glued on a vacuum cleaner nozzle. But hands down mini vans make way more sense for a family than a crossover or SUV. It is a roomier, capable vehicle and it costs less that most crossovers or SUV's. I just don't understand the stigma attached to them and why people care so much what other think about them. Is not safety and comfort and capability more important?