Used 2023 Chrysler Pacifica

Minivans may not have the coolness factor of an SUV, but ask any parent who’s driven one and you’ll soon realize their appeal. They simply make life easier when it comes to shuffling kids around. And while the field of minivans is relatively small, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica still stands out.

It’s among just one of two that offers all-wheel drive (the Toyota Sienna is the other) and the only one to offer a plug-in hybrid option, which we review separately as the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid.

Every time we get behind the wheel of the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, we enjoy it. Well, as much as a minivan can be enjoyed. If you’re shopping for something to haul the brood, probably the last thing on your mind is how well it can corner or whether you can beat that teenager in the car next to you up the onramp.

The Pacifica checks the boxes on what’s important at this stage in your life. It moves along quietly and comfortably, and its standard V6 engine is a strong and recommendable one. It can even tow up to 3,600 pounds, should you want to bring along a small trailer.

This Chrysler also gives one less reason to opt for an SUV instead of a minivan — it offers all-wheel drive. AWD is a great asset in cold-weather states where drivers must contend with slick and snowy rods.

Most Chrysler Pacifica models come standard with seating for seven. The exception is the Pacifica Touring L model, which can be optioned with a second-row bench seat to enable a total seating capacity of eight. Further note that the 8-passenger seating setup for the Touring L is not available with all-wheel drive.

Even base Pacifica models have a premium feel, with standard features like heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen display.

Upholstery ranges from premium cloth in the base Touring model to leatherette and premium Nappa leather in higher trims. The real boon of the Pacifica is this minivan’s Stow ’n Go seats, which enable the rear seats to fold into the floor like a disappearing act. This allows the Pacifica to be a versatile hauler of things when it’s not shuffling passengers around.

Especially helpful features include an optional in-car camera system to keep an eye on the kids, and an in-car vacuum to clean up after the kids.

Of course, as the passenger-mover the Pacifica is meant to be, room is good, with even the third row offering adult-friendly legroom.

The Pacifica stands out from its rivals in the looks department thanks to an even sleeker shape. It won’t be for all — especially those who prefer the blockier, SUV-like shape of the Kia Carnival — but for those who like a swoopy design, the Pacifica flaunts it.

All models feature power-operated sliding side doors, and frenzied parents will appreciate the standard power liftgate every time they use it. If you’re one to commonly have your hands full — in other words, you’re a normal parent — you might want the hands-free liftgate that is standard on Limited and Pinnacle trims, or optional on the Touring L model.

A dual-pane panoramic sunroof, also standard in the two higher trims and optional in the Touring L, is a convenient way of making the cabin feel airier. Wheels range in size from 17 to 20 inches.

1. Uconnect 5
Uconnect is the name of Chrysler’s infotainment system, and this is its best yet. It bundles features like wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, HD Radio and satellite radio, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates.

2. Uconnect Theater
With this optional system, rear-seat passengers can also get in on the entertainment. It boasts two 10.1-inch touchscreens, wireless streaming, wireless headphones, Amazon Fire TV for Auto, and even built-in video games.

3. Stow ’n Go seats
This is long a staple in Chrysler minivans, and for good reason. With this ingenious standard feature, you can fold the second-row seats into the floor to create flat, easily usable cargo space.

4. All-wheel drive
This option is a boon for those living in cold-weather states or anyone who simply wants enhanced traction.

5. FamCAM
This optional in-vehicle camera system provides a top-down view of the back rows, an excellent tool for keeping an eye on the kids, even those in rear-facing child seats.

The 2023 Pacifica uses Chrysler’s tried-and-true 3.6-liter V6 engine, which makes 287 horsepower in this application. That’s about average for this segment and plenty capable of moving the Pacifica. It even has the ability to tow up to 3,600 pounds.

All models use a 9-speed automatic transmission, and the Pacifica can be had in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Fuel economy is respectable at up to 28 mpg on the highway. There’s also an automatic engine start/stop system to reduce consumption and emissions at stoplights. It can be disabled if the driver prefers. The EPA fuel economy estimates below are from 2022, but we do not expect changes for 2023.

3.6-liter V6
287 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
262 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/28 mpg (FWD), 17/25 mpg (AWD)

3/36 Warranty

The Chrysler Pacifica is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. The powertrain is covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.