2021 Chrysler Pacifica
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2021 Chrysler Pacifica Review
- Easy to transform from people hauler to cargo transport
- Upscale look of the interior
- Available all-wheel drive
- Excellent all-around visibility
- Second- and third-row seats aren't as roomy or comfortable as rivals'
- Nine-speed transmission occasionally has clunky or slow shifts
- Lags behind the class in fuel efficiency
- Build quality is a mixed bag
- Refreshed Pacifica with updated interior and exterior styling
- New infotainment system gets Amazon Alexa integration and wireless capability for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Previously optional advanced driver aids are now standard
- Part of the first Pacifica minivan generation introduced for the 2017 model year
All right, minivan or SUV — what's more stylish and better equipped for bad weather? SUV, right? Maybe, but the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica is a viable exception. With updated styling and available all-wheel drive, the Pacifica has some of the best attributes of an SUV to go along with its excellent practicality.
From nose to tail, the Pacifica has a new look. Up front, the grille is larger and the reshaped LED headlights add more of a boxy SUV-like appearance. Also, the lower air inlets are square and widely spaced so that the whole front end seems broader and more rear-mirror-intimidating. Chrysler also restyled the rear of the van, giving it a full-width taillight that stretches from edge to edge. The 2021 Pacifica may look different, but it retains its useful, family-friendly character.
Among some of the other changes is a new, faster infotainment system (Uconnect 5) housed in a redesigned 10.1-inch screen. It's capable of receiving over-the-air updates and offers wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which means you can integrate your phone's apps into the infotainment system without having to use a USB cord. Chrysler has also added some more advanced driver aids to the Pacifica's standard features list as well as a new range-topping trim level known as Pinnacle.
With new features and expanded availability of all-wheel drive in a lineup that already benefits from a unique plug-in hybrid powertrain option, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica looks to muscle in on the venerable Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. It might even steal some sales from less practical SUVs. Check out the categories of our Expert Rating below to get our in-depth analysis and testing of the updated Pacifica.
Our verdict | |
There are two main reasons to choose the Chrysler Pacifica over another minivan. One is the added convenience and versatility of its Stow 'n Go seating, which allows you to fold the second-row seats into the floor in mere seconds. The second reason is the availability of all-wheel drive. Otherwise, this minivan comes up a little short on fuel economy, performance and comfort. | |
How does the Pacifica drive? | |
The Pacifica's performance is merely adequate. Its V6 engine isn't going to push your head back, but it's not going to let you down. Acceleration is average for the class, as is its braking performance. This minivan operates at an even keel most of the time. The steering and handling are also unremarkable. Both the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey offer a better experience if you're the one behind the wheel. The nine-speed automatic transmission works as expected in most situations. We found that when going up or down steep hills it sometimes got confused, choosing a gear higher or lower than the situation required. It kept the driver a bit busier than we'd prefer. | |
How comfortable is the Pacifica? | |
The front seat padding is firm, but ultimately we found the seats to be comfortable for long drives. The available heating and cooling for the front seats works great too. The second-row Stow 'n Go seats are less comfortable than those in other minivans, however. They also offer less adjustment, which means a little less legroom for the second row too. Third-row comfort is acceptable. The ride is compliant and generally smooth across varying road surfaces. There is body lean when the road starts to twist, but in this respect the Pacifica is pretty comparable to other modern minivans. The V6 engine noise isn't off-putting like the Pacifica Hybrid's powertrain since it uses a more traditional automatic instead of the Hybrid's continuously variable automatic transmission. But the nine-speed transmission's tendency to shift down extra gears can make the engine noise chime in unexpectedly at times. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The controls in the Pacifica are easy to use. The knobs for the radio and climate control are well placed and within easy reach of the driver. Chrysler's additional radio volume and tuning controls on the back of the steering wheel still make a lot of sense to us too. It's easy to step in and out of the Pacifica thanks to low doorsills, large door openings, tall roofline and well-positioned seats. There's a lot of adjustable range from the driver's seat and steering wheel. Legroom is abundant up front, and large windows all-around provide great visibility and limit blind spots. The optional 360-degree camera system makes maneuvering in tight spots even easier. The Stow 'n Go second-row captain's chairs are limited in adjustability, so there's slightly less potential legroom than in some other minivans. The third row is snug but still suitable for adults on shorter drives. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The Pacifica's Uconnect infotainment system excels in its ease of use, features and smartphone integration. It's highlighted by a large touchscreen with crisp graphics and prompt touch and voice response. The Pacifica offers Bluetooth and wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration systems. Multiple USB ports are also on hand for your devices. Available mobile web connections include Alexa pairing and the Uconnect app that allows you to control some van functions via your phone. An optional seatback video system can stream media to the van as well. Advanced driver aids are plentiful and standard, including forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise (it will stop and go without additional driver input), and lane keeping, to name a few. The optional 360-degree camera is a worthy add-on. | |
How’s the storage? | |
Minivans are about utility and the efficient use of space. The Pacifica, like its peers, has a deep well for storage behind the third-row seat. The manual-folding operation for the third-row seating isn't difficult, and Chrysler offers a power-folding option as well. Second-row versatility is where the Pacifica stands out. You can fold the clever Stow 'n Go seats into the floor with minimal effort. When deployed, you can also use their underfloor storage spots for additional cargo storage. There are also pockets, cupholders and cubbies for every cherished rock, bottlecap and coin your kids find on the ground. Speaking of junior humans, car seat accommodation is great. The LATCH anchors are easily accessed. Second-row seats are less adjustable than in the Pacifica Hybrid but still allow decent space for rear-facing child seats and parent access. And buckles are kid-friendly for those in boosters. The Pacifica, when properly equipped, offers a 3,600-pound maximum tow capacity. That's similar to other minivans on the market. | |
How economical is the Pacifica? | |
The EPA estimates the Pacifica with all-wheel drive gets 20 mpg combined (17 city/25 highway). That's one of the lowest figures in the class. We observed 23 mpgo n our 115-mile evaluation route, which is heavy on highway driving — this tells us the EPA estimates should be accurate. However, after 500 miles of mixed driving, we averaged a less impressive 18 mpg. Fuel economy is rated slightly better for front-wheel-drive Pacifica models at 22 mpg combined (19 city/28 highway). | |
Is the Pacifica a good value? | |
The Pacifica line stretches from the Touring to the top-line Pinnacle. Our test van was a Limited with all-wheel drive, the S Appearance package and other options totaling around $55,000. For the price, we were a little let down. Interior soft-touch surfaces are mixed with hard plastics that bring down the otherwise upscale vibe. Seat and armrest firmness further detracts from what's one of the more visually attractive interiors available in a minivan these days. Overall fit and finish isn't especially impressive, and a couple of our Pacifica test vans suffered from similar electronic gremlins. The Chrysler warranty package is about average for the class, including five years of roadside assistance. | |
Wildcard | |
Minivans aren't really designed with fun and excitement in mind. They are more about function. If you want the fun, you'll need to pack it along. There is certainly plenty of space for it. Where the Pacifica stands out is with its Stow 'n Go seats. Being able to flip those second-row chairs into the floor in seconds is a utilitarian masterstroke. If that sort of quick transformation is a feature you'd use often, this may be the van for you. | |
Which Pacifica does Edmunds recommend?
We think the Touring L offers the best balance between value and standard features. You get standard leather seats, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and sunshades for rear passengers. If you want to add a few extras, we'd go for the panoramic sunroof and the Premium and Safety Sphere Group for the upgraded audio system, navigation and extra advanced driver aids.
Chrysler Pacifica models
The Chrysler Pacifica is available in four trim levels: Touring, Touring L, Limited and Pinnacle. Each comes with a 287-horsepower V6 engine connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Touring and Touring L come with front-wheel drive and offer all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option. The Limited and Pinnacle have standard AWD. Highlighted features include:
Save as much as $7,068 with Edmunds
2021 Chrysler Pacifica pricing
in Ashburn, VATouring
3.6L 6cyl 9A
Edmunds Suggested Price$34,003
8 for sale in 20147
Hybrid Touring
3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT
Edmunds Suggested Price$37,614
10 for sale in 20147
Hybrid Touring L
3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT
Edmunds Suggested Price$38,596
10 for sale in 20147
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica.
Trending topics in reviews
- technology
- appearance
- safety
- doors
- spaciousness
- infotainment system
- driving experience
- maintenance & parts
- interior
- road noise
- fuel efficiency
- comfort
- seats
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- engine
- climate control
- value
- electrical system
- dashboard
- acceleration
- steering wheel
- wheels & tires
- sound system
- cup holders
- lights
- handling & steering
- transmission
- warranty
- ride quality
- visibility
Most helpful consumer reviews
1/5 stars, Chirping Noise issue - Not reliable car/company
D Vora,
Hybrid Limited 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT)
I have a 2021 Pacifica hybrid which is less than 30 days old and has 206 miles but makes chirping noise when I drive over 30 mph. It's very annoying, and the dealership admits the noise by stating, "verified that there is a small noise between 30 MPH and 60 MPH that is constant.", but the Chrysler (FCA) field technician denies abnormality by the statement below;
"FTA test drove and evaluate this vehicle and compared to multiple hybrids. The tech advisor stated there are no abnormal noises in this vehicle, and there is nothing out of normal parameters. No further action required".
Several other Pacifica hybrids make similar noises doesn't make noise normal. The critical point to note here is not all 2021 hybrid Pacifica makes the noise. My relative purchased the same car in the Bay area in March 2021, and that car doesn't make the chirping noise. Also, I test drive another 2021 Pacifica hybrid at a different dealership where the car was not making the chirping noise.
My car was in Chrysler shop on day six from my purchase date at 56 miles odometer reading for ten days. They didn't resolve the above issue by saying noise is not abnormal as other Pacifica hybrid make the same noise.
I strongly suggest an extended test drive before buying the car. I tried to return the vehicle on the third day at 56 miles when I realized that the noise is a fault and not a hybrid noise as to how the dealer sold it to me, but the dealer or FCA both refused.
FCA is not reliable as the dealer admits the noise, but the FCA technician just approves the noise as few other (not all) cars make a similar noise. I do not get a peaceful ride due to this chirping noise. I am also concerned about some mechanical or electrical issue developing, which nobody is able to detect at this point. I can share the video clip of the noise issue if you are interested. I am not sure if this noise's root cause will develop any mechanical problem or not, and I am frustrated that a brand new car with hefty price tag has a fault, and FCA and their designers are not doing anything about it.
5/5 stars, Amazing Vehicle &Hybrid is the Best Tax Deduction
Pacifica Hybrid Family,
Hybrid Pinnacle 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT)
We have about 500 miles on the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Pinnacle and love it! It looks great outside and the interior in the Pinnacle trim is incredible. My wife always said she would never drive a minivan but the Pacifica changed her mind. It is fully electric for 32-35 miles and then turns into a hybrid, so far we are still on the original tank of gas (with no need to fill up any time soon) after two weeks and 500 miles - you couldn't say that about many 7 passenger vehicles. It is not only efficient and interesting being electric but also very comfortable and nice to drive. In the Pinnacle trim level (top trim level) you get more features for a $52-53k msrp than you do in a $70-100k SUV, it has really high end leather, full glass roof, heated & cooled seats & heated steering wheel, rear screens that allow kids to play games with each other, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, parking assist (it can almost drive itself) and pretty much any other feature you could ask for. The only downside to the hybrid version is that you loose the stow and go seats, no rear heated seats, no vacuum and you can't get the larger wheel package. But being fully electric on most trips around town while being able to carry 7 people comfortably makes up for that. With young kids it is so much more practical and easier to get in and out of than a three row SUV.
In addition to being a great vehicle for anyone with young kids, it is also a 6,000 pound GVWR so it qualifies for the current 100% bonus depreciation or section 179 depreciation plus being all electric it also qualifies for the $7,500 federal income tax credit. If you use it in your business and can make use of the full $7,500 tax credit it ends up being the greatest bargain on four wheels with a third row of seats on the planet!
We needed to buy a new car prior to the end of 2020 to get bonus depreciation and almost ended up buying a Mercedes GLS or Cadillac Escalade ESV, both very nice SUVs but the Pacifica Hybrid Pinnacle is so nice when we found one in the color we wanted on December 31st the Pacifica won over very nice SUVs that cost a lot more.
5/5 stars, BEST THING EVER
Monty,
Hybrid Pinnacle 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT)
We've been waiting for a year for the 2021 with the upgrades to the technology and small redesigns and it is much better than expected. The Hybrid Drivetrain functions much better that our 2014 Prius v. What is not mentioned enough is that the EV motor will operate up to highway speeds until the battery is drained low. The interior comforts and technology is everything that you could ask for and more. The only time we've really heard the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) running is when the battery level dropped too low to run on its own. Other than that it is almost imperceptible to tell when the ICE is engaged outside of hard acceleration. There are no noises from the CVT. The looks of the van are stunning inside and out. I recommend getting the sunroofs, to add light into the van. We opted for the 2021Pacifica Hybrid Pinnacle, so the trim, headliner, and carpets are black, which helps with kids, but the sunroofs bring light inside without worries of the interior staining. The $7500 tax rebate gives hou a free hybrid for the regular gas only version. Chrysler's 0% financing + $3,750 Chrysler Rebates (another $2k if you don't use 0% financing) + $1k Chrysler Incentive for signing up for emails made the purchase a rather easy negotiation. The Rebates & Special Financing expire 2/1/2021 unless Chrysler brings it back. So don't wait, as supply is low and demand is very high. Our only problem is that we could get the van in tax year 2020. But don't rely only on my word, take a test drive and be blown away!
5/5 stars, Great Family Vehicle
KibbyP,
Touring 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
For the price, you get a lot with this vehicle, from the stow and go seats that gives more cargo space when needed, to cool safety features like blind spot monitor, park assist, lane departure, to name a few. This is the ride to buy. And now it comes with all-wheel drive, what's not to love.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Pacifica safety features:
- Forward Collision Warning Plus
- Uses a camera and radar to detect an imminent collision, issues alerts and primes the brake system. Initiates emergency braking if necessary.
- LaneSense
- Warns you if you start to deviate from your lane without using a turn signal. Vibrates the steering wheel to get your attention.
- Adaptive Cruise with Stop and Go
- Maintains a set distance between the Pacifica and the vehicle in front of it. Can bring the Pacifica to a complete stop.
Chrysler Pacifica vs. the competition
2021 Chrysler Pacifica
2021 Honda Odyssey
Chrysler Pacifica vs. Honda Odyssey
The recipe for the Odyssey hasn't changed much over the years: a practical and easy-to-use interior, a strong V6 engine and excellent road manners. It's simple, but it's worked to keep the Honda at the top of our minivan rankings for some time. But the Pacifica offers more ingredients, namely all-wheel drive, a plug-in hybrid version and a more versatile interior.
Chrysler Pacifica vs. Toyota Sienna
The Sienna has taken many forms in its life, but the newest version is the most striking. And thanks to its standard hybrid powertrain, it's also the most efficient. But the Sienna has nonremovable second-row seats, so it isn't as versatile as the Pacifica, and the Sienna's engine lacks power, especially when it's fully loaded.
Chrysler Pacifica vs. Kia Sedona
The Sedona offers loads of features as well as a strong warranty. But it's not quite as big or versatile as the Pacifica, and it lacks the option of all-wheel drive. The Pacifica also offers a more modern infotainment system and a smoother ride. Kia will be replacing the Sedona with the all-new Carnival for 2022.
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FAQ
Is the Chrysler Pacifica a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 Pacifica both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. You probably care about Chrysler Pacifica fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Pacifica gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg to 30 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Pacifica has 32.3 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Chrysler Pacifica. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica:
- Refreshed Pacifica with updated interior and exterior styling
- New infotainment system gets Amazon Alexa integration and wireless capability for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Previously optional advanced driver aids are now standard
- Part of the first Pacifica minivan generation introduced for the 2017 model year
Is the Chrysler Pacifica reliable?
To determine whether the Chrysler Pacifica is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Pacifica. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Pacifica's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 Pacifica and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 Pacifica is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica?
The least-expensive 2021 Chrysler Pacifica is the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Touring 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $35,820.
Other versions include:
- Touring 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl 9A) which starts at $35,820
- Hybrid Touring 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) which starts at $40,620
- Limited 4dr Minivan AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) which starts at $48,815
- Touring L 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl 9A) which starts at $39,120
- Hybrid Pinnacle 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) which starts at $51,550
- Touring L 4dr Minivan AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) which starts at $42,115
- Touring 4dr Minivan AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) which starts at $38,815
- Hybrid Limited 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) which starts at $46,045
- Hybrid Touring L 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT) which starts at $42,920
- Pinnacle 4dr Minivan AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) which starts at $54,095
What are the different models of Chrysler Pacifica?
If you're interested in the Chrysler Pacifica, the next question is, which Pacifica model is right for you? Pacifica variants include Touring 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl 9A), Hybrid Touring 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid EVT), Limited 4dr Minivan AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A), and Touring L 4dr Minivan (3.6L 6cyl 9A). For a full list of Pacifica models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more