Chrysler Pacifica First Generation (2017-present)
America's only PHEV minivan. AWD V6 unique in segment. Stow 'n Go retained.
Single generation since 2017. Built at Windsor Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada. Underlying RU platform is Chrysler's minivan-specific architecture. The Pacifica replaces the Town & Country (and Dodge Caravan) — the Pacifica nameplate had previously been used 2004-2008 on a completely different crossover. Two powertrain configurations: standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 (287 hp / 262 lb-ft, 9-speed ZF 9HP automatic, FWD or AWD with rear-axle disconnect) — the AWD option is unique in the minivan segment, neither Sienna nor Odyssey offer AWD on equivalent trims (Sienna has hybrid AWD only). And Pacifica Hybrid (PHEV) — 3.6L Pentastar V6 + two integrated electric motors + 16 kWh lithium-ion battery, combined system output 260 hp, eCVT transmission, FWD only (AWD not available on PHEV due to packaging constraints with battery), ~33 mile EPA EV range and 82 MPGe combined on battery, 30 mpg combined as conventional hybrid. The Pacifica Hybrid is the only plug-in hybrid minivan sold in America — Sienna is hybrid (not plug-in), Odyssey is gas-only, Carnival has a gas V6 option only. The PHEV qualifies for federal EV tax credit if leased. 2021 facelift: refreshed front fascia (more upright Chrysler corporate face), revised tail lamps, Uconnect 5 with 10.1-inch touchscreen standard mid-trim, available 12-inch driver display on Pinnacle. Stow 'n Go second-row seats retained — seats fold flat into the floor cavity for a flat cargo floor, no removal needed (Sienna and Odyssey require seat removal for full cargo). PHEV models do not offer Stow 'n Go on the second row (battery occupies the floor cavity) — this is a notable trade-off. Available equipment: FamCAM rear-camera looking at the back row, Stow 'n Vac integrated vacuum, second-row captain's chair sunshades, available 13.4-inch rear-seat entertainment screens on Limited+, panoramic sunroof. Towing 3,600 lb V6 (with tow package), 0 lb on PHEV (towing not rated). The Voyager is Chrysler's badge for lower-trim Pacifica fleet variants — same vehicle, simpler trim — sold to fleet only since 2024 model year.
Strengths
- Only PHEV minivan in America (~33 mi EV range)
- AWD V6 unique in minivan segment
- Stow 'n Go second-row seats (V6)
- FamCAM rear-cabin camera
- 9-speed ZF transmission well-matched
Weaknesses
- PHEV no Stow 'n Go (battery in floor)
- PHEV no AWD option
- Discontinuation rumored mid-2026 cycle
- 9-speed ZF early-build shift quality issues
- Pentastar V6 oil cooler leaks
Notable tech
- Pacifica Hybrid PHEV (33 mi EV range)
- Stow 'n Go floor-folding seats
- FamCAM rear-cabin camera
- Stow 'n Vac integrated vacuum
- Uconnect 5 with 10.1-inch touchscreen
- AWD with rear-axle disconnect (V6)
- 9-speed ZF 9HP automatic
Common issues
- 9-speed ZF shift hesitation (early build)
- Pentastar V6 oil cooler leaks
- PHEV battery cooling system software updates
- Power sliding door cable wear
- Stow 'n Go seat-fold mechanism wear
- Uconnect 5 freezes (early)
- AC compressor failures
Used-market budget
$28,000
Touring 2017-2020 $14-22k. Limited 2017-2020 $18-28k. Hybrid PHEV 2017-2020 $18-30k. 2021+ facelift Touring L $24-32k, Limited $30-42k, Pinnacle $42-56k. Hybrid commands modest premium when used.
