2007 Chrysler Pacifica [ 2008 ]
Chrysler Pacifica
Overall Score - 7.7 (Good)
The Pacifica carries many of the features now expected in crossover vehicles, but doesn't deliver the engine power or value of class leaders. If you're in the market for an affordable midsize SUV, you should also consider the all-new GMC Acadia or the tried and true Honda Pilot .
The mildly updated 2007 Chrysler Pacifica earns mixed reviews. While Chrysler has succeeded in putting together the important pieces of a minivan alternative, the engine power and third-row seating fall short of most reviewers' expectations. Edmunds says it best, commenting, "Our editors have found the crossover wagon's strengths to be its exceptional comfort for four, sedan-like driving characteristics, top-notch safety scores and upscale interior. Downsides include a lack of legroom in the third row and the lack of overall utility as compared to the top available minivans." Introduced in 2004, the Pacifica features an all-new engine and transmission to boost performance for 2007. MSN concludes that the Pacifica is "an easygoing, accomplished crossover with sufficient luxury to satisfy upscale vehicle owners who want something different with a good dose of practicality."
Even with pricey options, the Washington Post feels the Pacifica is "still providing an affordable, yet premium family hauler." However, buyers beware: A fully loaded Limited all-wheel drive version can top out at around $40,000. MSN concludes that "Unfortunately, initial pricing isn't family-friendly." Kelley Blue Book reports, "The base Pacifica and Touring models are projected to hold a slightly less-than-average residual value, while the all-wheel-drive Limited is expected to hold a slightly higher-than-average value." Making matters worse, IntelliChoice gives the base model a "poor" value rating (the lowest possible score) for its predicted five-year cost of ownership, compared with other vehicles in its class.
Pacifica Performance - 7.7 (Good)
Reviewers are generally disappointed with 2007 Pacifica's engine power, but otherwise consider it to have pleasantly car-like handling. Two V6 engine options replace the previous one-size-fits-all V6, and the base 3.8-liter is seen as insufficient. The Detroit News finds the Pacifica's driving dynamics disappointingly close to that of a minivan. continue
Pacifica Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)
The 2007 Chrysler Pacifica earns overall praise for its updated exterior. Several reviewers comment on the fact that the minivan-like Pacifica SUV doesn't look like a minivan -- a plus. "The Pacifica's sculpted lines give it a look that's more stylish than that of your typical ho-hum kiddie hauler," says Edmunds. continue
Pacifica Interior - 7.7 (Good)
The 2007 Chrysler Pacifica earns mixed reviews for its interior. While the 2007 model added upscale features, some find that it lacks the comfort, spaciousness and interior design quality found in similarly priced competitors. According to the Detroit News, the Pacifica "can't beat the versatility of a minivan" for a family with kids. continue
Pacifica Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2007 Chrysler Pacifica earns a very good safety score based on its spotless ratings in crash tests. The Detroit News praises, "Chrysler also pays better attention to safety features on this go-round with the Pacifica, making side-curtain air bags that protect all outboard passengers a standard feature, along with electronic stability control." continue
Pacifica Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Chrysler Pacifica reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Pacifica comes with Chrysler's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue