2017 Chrysler Pacifica Review: Why It’s the Ultimate Family Road Trip Minivan

Few vehicles are as well-suited for family road trips as the minivan, and after testing the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica on a long-distance journey with three young kids, it’s clear why this model stands out. From its whisper-quiet cabin to its smooth ride and entertainment features, the Pacifica transforms what could be a stressful drive into a manageable—even enjoyable—experience.

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Why the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Excels on Long Drives

Recently, my family took a six-hour road trip to Northern Michigan in MotorVero’s long-term 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. With three boys (ages 6, 4, and 2), frequent stops, and holiday traffic stretching the return trip to nine hours, the Pacifica proved its worth as a family road trip champion.

1. A Surprisingly Quiet Cabin

One of the Pacifica’s standout features is its exceptionally quiet interior. On highways, road and wind noise are impressively muted—a stark contrast to our 2012 Honda Odyssey. This makes conversations easier and reduces driver fatigue over long distances.

According to MotorVero’s testing, the Pacifica’s acoustic laminated windshield and additional sound-deadening materials contribute to a 5-7 dB reduction in cabin noise compared to rivals at 70 mph.

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2. Smooth, Comfortable Ride Quality

The Pacifica’s suspension strikes an ideal balance—absorbing bumps without feeling floaty. Combined with its responsive steering, the van delivers a refined, almost luxury-like driving experience.

Independent tests show the Pacifica’s wheelbase (121.6 inches) and tuned dampers help maintain composure on rough roads, outperforming the Toyota Sienna in ride comfort.

Family-Friendly Features (And a Few Drawbacks)

The Uconnect Theater System: Pros and Cons

The optional dual 10.1-inch touchscreens kept my older kids entertained with games and movies. However, the system has limitations:

• Seating Constraints: Since screens mount to front seatbacks, a rear-facing infant seat in the third row blocks access.
• Menu Complexity: Rear climate controls require digging through touchscreen menus—not ideal while driving.

Practical Storage Solutions

The Pacifica shines with clever storage options:

• Stow ‘n Go Seats: Second-row seats fold into the floor, creating 140.5 cu. ft. of cargo space.
• 15 Cup Holders: Enough for every passenger’s drinks and snacks.
• Rear Seat Reminders: Prevents accidentally leaving items (or kids!) behind.

How the Pacifica Compares to Rivals

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Is a Used 2017 Pacifica a Good Buy Today?

With prices ranging from $17,000-$23,000 for well-maintained examples, the 2017 Pacifica offers excellent value. Key considerations:

• Reliability: Later model years addressed early transmission concerns.
• Fuel Economy: 18/28 mpg (city/hwy) beats most SUVs in its class.
• Safety: Standard rearview camera and available blind-spot monitoring.

For families prioritizing comfort and practicality, the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica remains a top-tier minivan choice—especially for road trips.

Final Verdict: A Minivan That Makes Road Trips Bearable

After surviving a marathon holiday drive with three young children, I gained new appreciation for the Pacifica’s quiet cabin, composed ride, and family-friendly features. While no vehicle can eliminate the challenges of traveling with toddlers, the Pacifica comes closer than most.

For families considering a used minivan, the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica deserves strong consideration—especially if long road trips are in your future.

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