The Pacifica Hybrid (PHEV) and Toyota Sienna Hybrid (HEV) have the best gas mileage in their respective classes. Both vehicles offer large cargo capacity, sporty exterior design, and useful interior amenities.

However, the Pacifica Hybrid -- a plug in vehicle -- is actually defining what hybrid family-friendly vehicles can accomplish. A beautiful design, intentionally curated infotainment system, vehicle power, and fuel economy all challenge the 2024 Sienna. Here’s why.

1. PHEV Minivan Has Excellent Driving Range

   For commuting families, carpooling moms, and drivers needing to transfer cargo regularly, 3 row minivans are designed for the task. But these vehicles have a common problem: poor fuel economy.

   The Sienna Hybrid offers 36 mpg combined, which would be the best. However, the Pacifica Hybrid more than doubles this rate, boasting 82 MPGe. This makes the Pacifica the greenest minivan available today.

   

   Chrysler hybrid minivans have a 16.5 gallon tank and 520 mile driving range. It has an all electric range of 32 miles. A parent could drive 15 miles each way to take the kids to school, come back home, and plug back in to bring it back to full power.

   This 16 kWh battery can charge in a quick 2 hours when a 240 volt charging station is installed at home – impressive for a vehicle of this size. The majority of plug in SUVs take 2.5 to 4 hours to reach the same charge level.  

2. It’s The Van With The Best Driveability and Strength

   While minivan drivers are rarely speeders, the Chrysler minivan is super competitive and quick. With its top speed at 120 mph, it is nearly 5 miles faster than the Sienna.

   The Pacifica is substantially stronger, generating 260 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The 2024 Toyota Sienna has a much weaker powertrain, generating 176 lb-ft of torque and 245 horses.

   Automotive journalists have noted that the Pacifica doesn’t have the feeling of awkwardness when learning to drive an electric vehicle, and for this reason, is perfect for the transition between the two automobile types.

   Pacifica’s brakes are as responsive as they are forgiving, and the steering wheel has an impressive turning radius for a van of this size. The 2024 Sienna, although fuel efficient, has a clunky drive.

   Car and Driver stated that the Toyota Sienna failed to excite critics during the acceleration test, and Kelley Blue Book mentioned that the Sienna has poor performance when passing others on the highway.

   On the other hand, Car and Driver praises the Pacifica Hybrid for its excellent strength, smooth drivability, and luxury interior. You can learn more in this extended new Pacifica review.  

3. It’s Efficient and Utility-Driven

   Chrysler was the first manufacturer to make their minivans super versatile – something that other brands are still figuring out. The Hybrid Pacifica offers the latest versions of these Chrysler exclusive features.

   Stow ‘n Go allows the 3rd row seats to fold seamlessly into the cabin floor. The Pacifica Hybrid 2nd row seats fold flat.

   In addition, the Chrysler 3 row hybrid minivan has plenty of compartments and a floor storage system, perfect for the daily necessities. This is useful for school bags, groceries, and other items when on the road.

   The exterior of the Pacifica spares no expense. When it’s time to charge or fuel-up your vehicle, the plug-in and gas tank are on the same side of the car, making it easier for driver maintenance. This vehicle also features keyless entry, perfect to keep your keyfob in a purse and still have easy access to your vehicle.

4. It’s Functional and Cozy On The Inside

   The inside of the Pacifica is beautiful. It has leather seating options, a better infotainment system and an easy to use multi-function steering wheel. Plus, this hybrid minivan features the Chrysler classic dial gear shifter that many drivers rave about.

   Touchscreen dashboards are a necessity these days. This Pacifica Hybrid has a gorgeous 10.1-inch touch responsive screen that has a 7-inch driver screen to provide more viewing space.

   2024 Toyota Siennas interiors are nice, but not nearly as functional or luxurious as a rival Pacifica Hybrid. The minivan touchscreen is only 9 inches and tends to lag in response to commands. It features a Toyota software system that automotive journalists have called dated.

5. It Has the Best Passenger Ratings

   The Chrysler minivan has the highest-rated passenger experience. This is due to its larger size and maximized family-friendly amenities. Pacifica Hybrids come in Hybrid Select and Hybrid Pinnacle trim levels, offering incredibly luxe accommodations.

   All Pacifica trims have 165 cubic feet of passenger room. The inside boasts two 10-inch touchscreens, 12 USB ports, and the Chrysler FamCAM, which gives the driver a video view of the back rows – perfect for keeping an eye on little ones.

   Toyota’s hybrid minivan, on the other hand, has only one second-row screen. More importantly, it has less passenger volume. The cabin is rated at 162.5 or 159.7 cubic feet, depending on the presence of a moonroof.

   Pacifica’s passenger-minded design has the guaranteed 165 cubic feet of room, moonroof or not. Looking at the front and third rows, this Chrysler hybrid minivan also has more leg and shoulder room compared to the Sienna.

6. Chrysler Goes Above and Beyond

   Both the Toyota Sienna Hybrid and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid prioritize passenger safety and driver assistance. In every possible way, the Pacifica Hybrid challenges the Sienna, offering a vast array of today’s most needed driver aids.

   With assets like this, it’s no wonder that the Pacifica earned the 2024 Family Cars Award from Parents magazine. It’s also been named the Best Minivan for Families in 2024 by US News and World Report. Named an Editors Choice at Car and Driver, the Pacifica is praised as a seriously versatile minivan.

   Plus, Chrysler gives its Pacifica a maintenance warranty covering 3 years, up to 36,000 miles. This is a year longer and 11,000 more miles than the 2024 Sienna. Battery maintenance for the Pacifica is also 36,000 miles, and roadside assistance is complimentary for the first 60,000 miles.  

Conclusion

When choosing a hybrid minivan, the Pacifica Hybrid (PHEV) is the better option over the 2024 Toyota Sienna Hybrid. It has the highest ratings, best driveability, best passenger experience, and best amenities. Check out the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid at our Phoenix Chrysler dealership. Schedule a test drive.