Used 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid
Chrysler Pacifica types
- Plug-in Hybrid
- Minivan
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2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Review
byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
- Upscale-looking interior design and materials
- Many available convenience, safety and luxury features
- All-around visibility is excellent
Cons
- Nine-speed transmission occasionally exhibits clunky or slow shifts
- Seat padding is on the firm side
What's new
- Trim levels reduced to four choices
- All-wheel drive now available
- Some previously optional features are now standard
- Minor cosmetic changes to the interior
- Part of the first Pacifica minivan generation introduced for the 2017 model year
The Chrysler Pacifica makes a solid alternative to the typical default minivan choices from Honda and Toyota, standing out with handsome style, an easily configurable cabin, and abundant safety and tech features. But the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid stands out for another reason altogether: It's today's only hybrid minivan, and a plug-in (i.e., rechargeable) hybrid no less.
Why other automakers haven't yet dabbled in hybrid minivans is a mystery — likely an impossible nexus between soft demand and pricey technology — but credit Chrysler with being first out of the gate. The Pacifica Hybrid's primary appeal is its ability to travel up to 32 miles solely on an electric charge.
Considering that the duty cycle of most minivans involves short trips in and around town, that's a respectable measure of range for handling most daily errands. That you can top up the battery overnight only enhances the appeal. And if you happen to be out driving and exhaust the electric charge, the gas engine takes over and returns 30 mpg in combined driving, which is 8 mpg better than the non-hybrid Pacifica.
The hybrid version does require some concessions, however. It doesn't offer Chrysler's convenient Stow 'n Go seats since the hybrid battery occupies the in-floor space where the seats normally disappear into. But the alternative fixed captain's chairs are actually more comfortable.
The hybrid's battery also adds significant weight, which hinders the Pacifica's acceleration and handling. Granted, these aren't metrics that make or break a minivan, but the Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna are noticeably quicker and more dynamic. Fun even. The Pacifica Hybrid is also more expensive than its gas-only counterpart, especially in base trim, although potential fuel savings and tax rebates can lessen the long-term sting.
If you like the idea of covering the day's miles in a minivan powered by electricity, the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the only option. Fortunately, its other qualities make it a worthy alternative to the usual suspects.
Edmunds Expert Rating
good
7.9/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
The weight of the Pacifica Hybrid's battery and components dulls its handling, but that's not this van's forte anyway. Instead, it excels at delivering unmatchable minivan efficiency, especially if you're able to regularly recharge it, while still being a fully functioning minivan. It's pricier than its non-hybrid counterpart, but with tax credits and fuel savings, you're likely to come out ahead.
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Which Pacifica does Edmunds recommend?
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited is the most appealing trim level, but also the most expensive. Still, that money buys a serious suite of gear. On top of the base equipment, the Limited offers luxury and convenience touches such as premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a 20-speaker premium sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Limited is also the only trim level that offers optional driver aids such as a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control and a self-parking system.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica models
The 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is a three-row minivan with seven-passenger seating, available in three well-equipped trim levels: Touring, Touring L and Limited.