2022 Chrysler Pacifica Review

It’s the 3rd year in a row that this minivan has been named Best Family Car by Parents Magazine. The 2022 model year took a spot on the List of Best Car Interiors under $50,000 from Autotraders. It is a 2022 Top Safety Pick Plus, the most exclusive rating a vehicle can get from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Car and Driver editors have named it as a 2022 Editors’ Choice. Clearly these minivans are earning respect from journalists and auto testers across the automotive industry.

Stow ‘n Go is the number one way to adapt seating to cargo space. It is fast and smart, and it is only offered with this minivan. Stow ‘n Go compartments provide storage when the seats are in use. The available Stow ‘n Go vacuum cleaner is a convenient way to take care of messes immediately.

This is the first year that Pacifica owners can get Amazon Fire TV to entertain the kids. It works with the UConnect Theater system. Families can play built-in games, stream music or videos, and watch downloaded content. With 12 USB ports, this ride lets every passenger plug in.

Also new, the FamCam watches over children in a rear-facing infant seat. This makes it easier to keep babies happy. Some of its segment-first features include a view of rear-facing child seat passengers, a zoom capability, a split view screen, and a best-in-class image.

The V6 delivers 287 horsepower which is controlled by a sharp 9-speed automatic transmission. With its plug-in electric capability, the hybrid powertrain generates a solid 260 horsepower.

All trims have 165 cubic feet in passenger volume. Legroom is 39 inches on the second row and 36.5 inches on the third row. The third row maintains 38.7 inches of headroom. Easy-tilt second row seats can be moved without removing kids from the carseats.

Stow ‘n Go interior cargo volume is 140.5 cubic feet and 99.5 inches in length. Standard cargo volume is 32.3 cubic feet. The system lets you fold both rows of seats into the floor. On the hybrids, the second row can be removed, and the third row can fold into the floor.

With front-wheel drive and a powerful engine, the Pacifica’s drivability is very carlike. The nose design and the driver’s elevated seat ensure a clear view of the road.

Pacificas are the first and only minivan with an all-wheel drive option that can move 100 percent of the torque to the back wheels if necessary. Since the system works automatically, it can drive in a fuel efficient, lower emission drivetrain until AWD is needed.

The AWD Pacifica is the most capable in its class. The evidence is in its tow rating, which is 3,600 pounds. You could wait for a Chrysler Pacifica sale, but you may want to find out if incentives are available to help you claim a higher trim edition.

Hybrid Advantages and Exclusives

As the sole plug-in hybrid minivan, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid claims incredible fuel efficiency. It can save $3,000 to $6,000 in fuel costs when compared to rival minivans. Chrysler estimates that it costs $1.82 to achieve a full charge overnight.

U.S. Department of Energy estimates show an average savings of about $6,250 over a 5-year period. (Savings vary based on the cost of gas.) The federal tax credit ($7,500 maximum) is available to many who might purchase the Pacifica Hybrid.

Keeping charge costs low, the new UConnect5 system includes the ability to schedule battery charging according to the least expensive overnight hours. The system also includes the app Smartphone Control 2.0 to allow owners to use their phones for this purpose.

Pacifica Hybrid vs Toyota Sienna Hybrid

If you are comparing the 2022 Toyota Sienna Hybrid, here’s what you should know. According to the DOE, the Sienna Hybrid represents $3,250 savings or $3,000 less than the Pacifica Hybrid Plug-in. The Sienna is rated at 36 mpg in combined driving.

The Pacifica fuel economy is rated at 82 mpge. After 32 miles of all electric power, the Pacifica earns 30 mpg in combined driving.

If you are considering the Kia Carnival or the Honda Odyssey, remember that the Pacifica is the only minivan with true Stow-n-Go seating and many class-leading or class exclusive features. Chrysler Pacfica incentives can keep your costs low while the federal tax credit and remarkable fuel efficiency will reduce ownership costs.

Dashboard Technology and Connectivity

UConnect5 is the largest radio touch screen you’ll find in this class. This 10.1-inch touchscreen has grown by 20 percent and has clearer high definition graphics. The improved operating system works at about 5 times the speed of the prior UConnect touch screen.

Owners may utilize Apple Maps via Apple CarPlay or Google Maps via Android Auto. Amazon Alexa and UConnect can work together to allow users to start the car while in their home.

First in its class, the Chrysler has USB-C ports that charge smartphones up to four times faster. A wireless charging pad is standard on the Limited and Pinnacle trim levels.

TomTom navigation can be updated with map updates as needed. SiriusXM with 360XL connectivity adds personalized stations, on-demand content, Pandora connectivity, and more. This service is complimentary for the first six months of ownership.

Harman Kardon audio is offered in a 20-speaker system or a new 19-speaker system that features a 10-inch rear quarter trim subwoofer. At your Chrysler Pacifica dealer, you can hear the different audio systems and discover which one is right for you.

Standard Trim Levels

Touring base models seat 7 on three rows with rear HVAC controls to keep everyone cooler. Front power chairs, the touch screen system, and advanced driver assistance are among its important standards.

Touring L is the first model that is offered in three configurations: gas with front-wheel drive, gas with all-wheel drive, or hybrid. Amenities include a special leather upholstery, power liftgate and front heated seats.

Limited models add ventilated front seats, a wonderful way to keep cool in Phoenix AZ summers. It’s the top model to offer full Stow ‘n Go seating and storage.

Top Trims and Appearance Packages

The premium Pacifica Pinnacle cabin features quilted Nappa upholstery. These have suede pillow backs and a suede headliner for more soft points. An exclusive caramel color scheme is available.

The Pinnacle’s second-row captain’s chairs offer exclusive movable lumbar pillows. Even the floor mats are made of high-end Berber carpet.

The Pinnacle model offers best-in-class console storage with two levels and a deep pass-through. Chrysler engineers designed it to be the most functional in its 3-row class.

If you want a different look, the S Appearance Package trims the seats in black leather with a light gray stitch. The steering wheel wears a dynamic piano black.

Safety Features and Driving Assistance

The Chrysler minivan has been called a leader in the industry for its 98 total standard features. That includes the full LED exterior lights, including headlights, taillamps, fog lights, and daytime running lights. It also includes the big stuff like full-speed forward collision warning and active emergency braking. There is a related pedestrian automatic emergency brake system.

Adaptive Cruise Control can stop and go with traffic. LaneSense combines a lane departure warning with an assist. The standard blind spot monitor helps with safer lane changes.

Parking Assistance

In addition to the rearview camera, standard Rear Park Assist combines rear sensors with an emergency autobrake. Drivers also get alerts from the Rear Cross Path Detection features. When you shut off the van, a rear seat reminder is also on board to help busy caregivers.

You can upgrade to ParkSense Front Park Assist and enjoy autobrake assistance with front sensors. You can go for the 360-degree Surround View Camera system to keep an eye on the van’s perimeter. The Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist takes care of the parking process for drivers.

Check out our inventory. Then take a test drive and try it on for size.