Used 2007 Chrysler Pacifica

On paper, the Chrysler Pacifica seems like a good idea, but the segment-starting crossover has not become the sales leader for which the company had hoped. Perhaps the Pacifica’s combination of a low interior ceiling and high sticker price has failed to lure customers away from more traditional family vehicles such as the minivan and the SUV. While the Pacifica’s long list of standard features and optional all-wheel drive (a feature no longer available on Chrysler minivans) are attractive, those who don’t require a third-row seat need only look to the Dodge Magnum, which offers the same roomy wagon-like interior but delivers better performance and more eye-catching styling.

Even when negotiating the tightest of turns, the Pacifica remains composed and stable. Body roll is minimal, and the rear end can seem as if it’s stitched to the pavement, refusing to break loose under all but the most aggressive maneuvers. The steering feel is light and responsive, with a good amount of positive feedback from the road and, even though the Pacifica rides on tall 17-inch tires, the turn-in is very quick, allowing you to perform emergency maneuvers with complete confidence.

We think you’ll find that the driving experience is impressive in the front-wheel-drive Pacifica and even better with all-wheel drive. The AutoStick manual function has been greatly improved this year, with a much quicker response time when changing gears.

The Pacifica’s interior represents a huge step forward for Chrysler. Plastic trim has been kept to a minimum, and what plastic there is has a rich, high-quality feel. The base model offers seating for five, while all other trim levels provide three rows of captain’s-chair seating. Seating comfort is excellent in all three rows, and the front and middle rows are available with optional heated seats. Standard side-curtain airbags cover all three rows, and the optional navigation system has its screen in the center of the speedometer dial. That’s great for the driver, but doesn’t work so well for erstwhile, and frustrated, navigators in the co-pilot’s seat.

The Pacifica’s design is surprisingly reserved. There are no retro themes here. Instead, the styling is fresh and contemporary. The long side glass is deeply tinted for better privacy and provides excellent outward visibility for the driver. Big rear doors aid entry, as does the low step-in height. For 2007, the Pacifica receives new sheetmetal around the hood, fenders, grille and headlamps. Other exterior changes include new wheels and dual chrome exhaust tips.

Navigation Screen
The Pacifica’s speedometer-mounted navigation screen is much easier to read while driving than those that are placed elsewhere on the dash.

Heated Second-Row
Second-row captain’s chairs are available with optional heating and are separated by a powered center console.

The Pacifica comes with front-wheel drive, dual-zone manual air conditioning, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), three-row side-curtain airbags, five-passenger seating, remote keyless entry, power windows, dual heated power mirrors, AM/FM stereo with CD and Infinity speakers, eight-way power driver’s seat, rear wiper/washer, AutoStick transmission, tilt-wheel with touch controls and cruise control. The Touring trim adds seating for six, automatic air conditioning, garage door opener, 10-way power driver’s seat and aluminum wheels. Limited models include a power liftgate, driver’s seat and mirror memory, power moonroof, rear park assist, power adjustable pedals, six-disc in-dash DVD/MP3/CD changer, leather seats, leather and wood steering wheel and 19-inch chrome wheels.

Options include all-wheel drive, heated front and rear seats, navigation, power moonroof, HID headlamps, rear-seat DVD player, Infinity Intermezzo sound system, power rear liftgate and a ten-way power driver’s seat.

The Pacifica offers two V6 engines, both strong enough to move the vehicle at a good clip. While the 3.8-liter engine remains a bit course for our taste, the new 4.0-liter V6 feels just fine. Strong power and a willingness to move when asked are this engine’s best attributes. The six-speed automatic works seamlessly and helps provide good fuel economy.

3.8-liter V6
200 horsepower @ 5000 rpm
235 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/25

4.0-liter V6
253 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
262 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/24 (FWD), 16/24 (AWD)