The minivan that introduced the “family people mover” vehicle concept raises the bar to a new level with the newly designed 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. Manufactured on a brand new platform that offers more technology and functions, including the first Hybrid in the minivan class.
The original minivan was introduced by Chrysler more than 30 years ago, grew out of the need to “move family, people and stuff”, according to Chrysler engineers, “we wanted to build the best people mover possible.
I recently got my first drive in the 2017 Pacifica on location at the Pelican Beach Golf Resort in Newport Beach, California. It may well cross over from soccer moms to soccer dads with its car-like handling and stylist design. The new Pacifica attracted lots of attention and it felt more like driving an SUV than the traditional minivan.
More than 17-million Pacifica’s have sold since its inception and the time is right to build a newly upgraded minivan, from the ground up, and on an all-new platform that significantly improves handling, vibration that looks and rides like a luxury vehicle.
The new Pacifica has more than 100 safety and security features that come standard, including a 360-degree Surround View camera, ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Hold and Collision avoidance systems.
Two engine choices are offered with the all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, including the next-generation of the Pentastar V-6 gasoline engine that generates 287 horsepower and averages 28 mpg on the highway. It is paired with a segment-exclusive TorqueFlite nine-speed automatic transmission.
The first Hybrid minivan in the industry, the Pacifica Hybrid includes an electric 16-kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery that delivers an average 30 miles on electric power and has an MPGe rating of 80 miles per gallon, based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards.
An innovative pivotal technology sits behind the all-new Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, which consist of an electrically variable transmission (EVT). The device features two electric motors, both capable of driving the vehicle’s wheels.
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has a traditional seven-seat capacity (an eight-seat seating configuration is a $495 option), dual-sliding side doors, and the popular Stow-N-Go folding seats. Fortunately, the second row seems more comfortable than the overly low and tilted setup of the previous model. Of course, Chrysler claims the Pacifica has the largest interior volume in the segment and is capable of hauling 4×8-foot sheets of plywood.
It will take several articles to review the many features in the new Pacifica’s array of comfort and convenience technologies, including a Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum, tri-pane panoramic sunroof, handsfree sliding doors and lift-gate.
The Pacifica has a standard seven-seat capacity, which can be stowed into the floor or easily removed to create space or reduce weight. For another $495, an optional eight seats are available.
The base Pacifica LX starts at $28,595 and the top-of-the-line Limited tops out at $42,595. The Pacifica Touring L starts at $34,495 and offers creative and colorful leather interior and seating, power lift-gate, and some leading edge active safety features.
Randi Payton is Founder at Decisive Media, Washington D.C. Metro Area.
