The
Chrysler Pacifica helped launch a trend that those in the car business call crossover vehicles. Crossovers are supposed to combine the best attributes of sport-utility vehicles, sedans and minivans, and the Pacifica still does that as well as any, at very attractive prices. This year, it does it better than it ever has.
For 2007, the Pacifica benefits from fairly substantial changes, starting with a smoother, more powerful V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Its styling has been subtly updated, and previously optional safety equipment, including side-curtain head protection airbags and electronic stability control, is now standard on all models. Perhaps best of all, prices have actually been lowered.
Pacifica has four sedan-like doors and the wide rear liftgate you'd expect on a sport-utility vehicle or minivan. Inside it's roomy and comfortable, whether upholstered in fabric or leather. Getting in and out is easy. It rides like a sedan and handles well for a vehicle of its heft, and it's more enjoyable to drive through suburbia than just about any truck-based SUV. On the highway, it's smooth and quiet.