Text by Tom Appel
Text by Tom Appel2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Premium S Appearance
Specifications
Category: Minivan
Shade: Silver Mist
Capacity: 7
Distance covered: 183
| CG Report Card | |
|---|---|
| Space and Comfort | A |
| Energy and Performance | B+ |
| Fit and Finish | A |
| Mileage | A |
| Worth | B+ |
| Grades are based on general driver assessments. All grades are in comparison to other vehicles in the same bracket. The value grade is for the specific trim level evaluated and may not represent the overall model lineup according to Consumer Guide’s opinions. | |
| Large & Tall Comfort | |
| Large Person | A |
| Tall Person | A |
| Comfort ratings are solely for front seats. The “Large” rank is based on a male evaluator weighing approximately 350 pounds, while the “Tall” rank is based on a 6’6″-tall male evaluator. | |
| Drivetrain | |
| Engine Specifications | 260-hp 3.6-liter |
| Engine Kind | V6 plug-in hybrid |
| Gearbox | CVT-automatic |
| Drive Tires | AWD |
Real-world mileage: 32 mpg
Driving mix: 65% city, 35% highway
EPA-estimated mileage: 82 MPGe/30 mpg (city/highway combined)
Fuel type: Regular gasoline suggested
Initial cost: $53,425 (excluding $1595 delivery fee)
Choices: Special paint ($195), Customer Preferred Package 2ET ($5995), Uconnect Theater and Sound Group ($2995)
Tested cost: $64,205
Advantages and Disadvantages
The excellent: Plug-in hybrid efficiency, wonderful variety of family-friendly convenience features
The positive: Roomy cabin with sophisticated decorations; pleasurable highway conduct, particularly quiet at elevated speeds
The drawbacks: Lack of Stow ‘n Go seating in hybrid, high-end vehicle pricing
Evaluation
Customers would struggle to unearth a more competitive vehicle category than the minivan sector. For 2024, there are only five minivan alternatives, and all meriting consideration. However, there’s just one van we designated as the best purchase for ’24, and that’s the Chrysler Pacifica.
Competitive Collection
Out of the five minivans accessible this year, only two, the Pacifica and Toyota Sienna, are provided as hybrids. Moreover, only one, the Pacifica, is offered as a plug-in hybrid. In an intriguing twist, the Sienna is solely offered as a hybrid, while the Pacifica can also be obtained with a standard V6 engine. More on that in a short while.
The Pacifica has undergone minimal modifications for 2024, except for some rearrangement of trim levels on the hybrid side of the range. For ’24, the Hybrid Touring L and Hybrid Limited have been discontinued.
Pricing and Versions
The hybrid range progresses through the following trim levels:
Hybrid Select ($52,845)
Hybrid S Appearance ($55,145)
Hybrid Road Tripper ($55,345)
Hybrid Premium S Appearance ($58,645)
Hybrid Pinnacle ($61,575)
We reviewed a Pacifica in the new Hybrid Premium S Appearance trim and Silver Mist paint. Our examination van was equipped with two substantial packages, including the Customer Preferred Package ($5995), and the Uconnect Theater and Sound Group ($2995). The former incorporates the S Appearance Package. Altogether, our Pacifica totaled $64,205, incorporating the delivery charge. Yes, minivans have indeed transformed into deluxe vehicles.
Interior
Within the Pacifica, entertainment functions are showcased through the manufacturer’s Uconnect 5 system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (enabling connection of two phones at once), Amazon Alexa voice command, and more, alongside a 10.1-inch touchscreen.
The interior boasts elegance. Nappa leather seats with distinctive accents accommodate up to seven occupants. The second-row captain’s chairs are solid and supportive. Despite the opulent appearance of the seats, their comfort is not compromised, including the third row, although the height of the second-row seats seemed slightly low to this evaluator. The cabin of the new model also highlights details such as contrasting stitching on dark surfaces like the dashboard, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and console; as well as satin-chrome accents.
Space and Relaxation
Naturally, generous space is available for passengers and luggage. Unlike the non-hybrid Pacificas, the Hybrid version lacks the “Stow ‘n Go” feature on the second-row seats for floor folding, but its captain’s chairs come with the “Easy Tilt” capability for easy access to the third row. Moving between the seats is effortless as well. The second-row seats can slide back and forth, providing ample legroom for a couple of adults to comfortably occupy the third row.
Although the second-row seats do not fold into the floor, they can be detached. In a gesture to help a friend move, the editor’s spouse took on the task of removing the seats from the vehicle, describing it as “challenging.” Each seat weighs about 80 pounds but can be easily taken off the van floor. Reinstalling the seats was a straightforward process, although, once again, the seats are bulky. It is suggested that individuals of slight build—like the editor’s spouse—should enlist larger assistants to assist in seat removal tasks. Once the seats are removed, and the third row is stowed away, the Pacifica offers an impressively spacious cargo area.
Engine Performance
In terms of driving dynamics, the hybrid system proved to be mostly inconspicuous, although power delivery is somewhat less seamless and gradual compared to non-hybrid systems.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain incorporates the standard Pacifica’s 3.6-liter V6 engine with electric assistance and a CVT automatic transmission. A 16-kWh battery offers an advertised 32 miles of electric range, following which the Pacifica functions like a traditional hybrid. The system delivers commendable power and exceptional efficiency, provided users are meticulous about plugging in.
Fuel Efficiency
By plugging in whenever convenient, we achieved an average of 32 mpg; this could have been higher if not for a long trip without charging opportunities.
Most drivers should be able to rely solely on electric power during a regular week of commuting and local driving, while still being able to enjoy extended-range driving when needed.
Costing just over $60,000, the Pacifica Hybrid comes at a premium. Despite being pricey for a minivan, our luxuriously equipped Pacifica is best viewed as a luxury vehicle, making its price more justifiable. For those seeking more affordable minivan options, avoiding expensive optional packages will significantly reduce the purchase cost.
Overview
While other vehicles in its category are worth considering, none match the Pacifica’s serenity, smooth ride, or overall upscale ambiance. In hybrid form, only the Toyota Sienna rivals the Chrysler in terms of fuel efficiency.
As a parting thought: If you are not committed to regular charging, the Pacifica Hybrid may not be the best choice. Consider designating one of your children as the “Charging Supervisor” to remind mom and dad to plug in regularly.
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