Cargazing
By Derek Price
The humble minivan might not win any street races or turn heads at car shows, but for pure family-hauling efficiency, nothing beats a box on wheels with sliding doors.
In this practical arena, the 2025 Chrysler Pacifica continues to prove why the company that invented the minivan segment more than 40 years ago still leads it today.
My test vehicle, a Limited AWD model loaded with nearly every bell and whistle Chrysler offers, showcased both the Pacifica’s strengths and the compromises buyers make when choosing certain configurations.
The Pacifica’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine delivers 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, which is ample power for a family hauler.
Paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, acceleration is confident if not thrilling.
Where the Pacifica truly shines is its ride quality and noise suppression. Road and wind noise are remarkably well controlled, creating a serene environment for conversations or enjoying the available Harman Kardon premium audio system.
The 2025 Chrysler Pacifica Limited now comes standard with the S appearance package, giving it a sportier look with blacked-out trim.
The optional all-wheel-drive system provides welcome peace of mind in inclement weather. Unlike some competitors’ AWD setups, the Pacifica’s system engages seamlessly without driver intervention, automatically disconnecting the driveshaft when not needed to improve fuel efficiency.
Still, the AWD does extract a notable fuel economy penalty, delivering just 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway compared to the front-wheel-drive version’s more respectable 19/28 mpg ratings.
For maximum efficiency, the Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid remains the fuel economy champion, offering an impressive 82 MPGe with 32 miles of all-electric range and a total range of 520 miles. It’s also eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit, a significant advantage for cost-conscious families.
Inside, the Pacifica continues to innovate with thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin. The famous Stow ‘n Go seating remains a game-changing feature for the gas-powered models, allowing the second-row seats to disappear completely into the floor.
My test vehicle included the UConnect Theater Family Group, adding dual 10-inch seatback touchscreens with available Amazon Fire TV integration. This system allows passengers to stream videos, play games, and access various apps — a sanity-saver on long trips.
With premium materials, innovative storage solutions, and an impressive array of technology features, the Pacifica’s cabin offers a genuinely upscale environment.
The package also includes a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system that delivers impressive sound quality throughout the spacious cabin.
The optional Safety Sphere Group adds valuable features including a 360-degree surround-view camera system, parallel and perpendicular park assist, and front park sensors.
Storage options abound, with clever solutions throughout the cabin, including a deep center console, numerous cubbies, and up to 11 USB ports depending on configuration.
The Pacifica boasts more total storage space than many full-size SUVs, proving the minivan’s enduring superiority for family functionality.
While the current Pacifica generation is starting to show its age in certain areas, Chrysler has kept it fresh with thoughtful updates. For 2025, the lineup has been streamlined to Select, Limited, and Pinnacle trim levels, with the popular S Appearance package now standard on Limited gas models.
For families who prioritize practicality over pretense, the Pacifica remains a compelling choice.
At A Glance
WHAT WAS TESTED?
2025 Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD ($52,565). Options: Safety sphere ($1,260), UConnect Theater family group ($3,325). Price as tested (including $1,995 destination charge): $59,165
BY THE NUMBERS
Wheelbase: 121.6 in.
Length: 204.3 in.
Width: 79.6 in.
Height: 69.9 in.
Engine: 3.6-liter V6 (287 hp, 262 lbs. ft.)
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 17 city, 25 highway
RATINGS
Style: 7
Performance: 6
Price: 7
Handling: 6
Ride: 8
Comfort: 9
Quality: 7
Overall: 8
WHY BUY IT?
The Pacifica delivers unmatched family-friendly versatility with innovative features including Stow ‘n Go seating, available all-wheel drive, and a plug-in hybrid option that no other minivan offers.