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2017 Chrysler Pacifica Review: The Minivan That Shattered Stereotypes
2017 Chrysler Pacifica Review: The Minivan That Changed Everything
MotorVero Verdict: The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica redefines minivan expectations, combining stunning design with groundbreaking family functionality. It delivers the space and practicality minivan buyers need, wrapped in packaging so stylish it makes competitors look frumpy by comparison. While not without minor flaws, the Pacifica represents the most significant advancement in minivan design in over a decade.
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A New Era for Family Transportation
When Chrysler introduced the 2017 Pacifica, it didn't just replace the aging Town & Country—it completely reimagined what a minivan could be. Resurrecting the Pacifica name (previously used on a crossover from 2004-2008), this third-generation minivan launched with:
- Class-leading styling: 28% more rigid body structure with 3,400 welds
- Segment-first features: Available hybrid powertrain and built-in vacuum
- Unmatched versatility: 243 different seating configurations
- Premium materials: Available Nappa leather and real wood trim
Exterior Design: Minivan Meets Luxury Sedan
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The Pacifica's styling represents a quantum leap from previous minivans:
Design Innovations
- Hidden sliding door tracks (first in class)
- LED light pipe taillights
- Chrome-accented grille inspired by Chrysler 200
- 0.300 coefficient of drag (best in class)
Dimensional Advantages
- 203.8-inch length (3.6" longer than Odyssey)
- 79.6-inch width (1.2" wider than Sienna)
- 69.9-inch height (1.3" lower than Sedona)
The design eliminates traditional minivan visual cues while improving aerodynamics—key to its class-leading 28 mpg highway rating with the 3.6L V6 engine.
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Interior: Family Command Center
The Pacifica's cabin sets new standards for minivan functionality:
| Feature | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Stow 'n Go Seating | 87.5 cu.ft max cargo (140.5 with seats removed) |
| Uconnect Theater | Dual 10" HD touchscreens with Blu-ray |
| Tri-Zone Climate Control | Independent rear controls with 3rd-row vents |
| Available Built-In Vacuum | 16-foot hose reaches entire cabin |
Driving Dynamics: Surprisingly Agile
The Pacifica outperforms minivan expectations with:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: 287 hp @ 6,400 rpm (best in class at launch)
- 9-speed automatic: 20/28/23 mpg (city/hwy/combined)
- Electric power steering: 37.1-foot turning circle
- Available AWD: Only minivan with all-wheel drive option
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Road tests revealed the Pacifica is:
- 3.2 seconds quicker 0-60 mph than outgoing Town & Country
- 4 dB quieter at 70 mph than Honda Odyssey
- 18% more fuel efficient than previous model
Competitive Comparison
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vs Honda Odyssey
- + More upscale interior materials
- + Available hybrid powertrain
- - Less engaging driving dynamics
vs Toyota Sienna
- + More innovative storage solutions
- + Better fuel economy (non-hybrid)
- - Fewer standard safety features
vs Kia Sedona
- + More powerful engine
- + Smoother ride quality
- - Higher starting price
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Safety & Reliability
The Pacifica earned top marks with:
- NHTSA 5-Star Overall Safety Rating
- IIHS Top Safety Pick (with optional features)
- Standard rearview camera and ParkSense
- Available 360-degree camera system
Common issues to watch for include:
- Early build quality concerns (first model year)
- Power sliding door mechanisms
- Uconnect system software updates
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Who Should Buy the 2017 Pacifica?
This minivan excels for:
- Style-conscious families who refuse to sacrifice aesthetics
- Tech-forward parents wanting the latest convenience features
- Eco-conscious buyers considering the hybrid model
With used prices ranging $18,000-$28,000 (2023 values), the Pacifica offers tremendous value—often costing less than newer competitors while delivering more premium features.
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The Verdict: A Benchmark Reset-
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica didn't just raise the minivan bar—it launched the category into a new orbit. By combining sedan-like styling with unparalleled family functionality, Chrysler created a vehicle that appeals to both the heart and practical mind. Seven years after its debut, the first-generation Pacifica remains one of the smartest used minivan buys available, offering about 90% of a new model's capability at half the price.
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Last Updated On Oct, 07-2025