2023 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Until the Volkswagen ID Buzz arrives, no all-electric minivan exists, so the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the closest thing. It pairs a motor and battery with a gas engine for improved fuel economy and electric-only driving capability. Otherwise, the plug-in Pacifica has most of the family-oriented equipment found on the conventional Pacifica.
The Pacifica Hybrid was introduced for 2017 and received a refresh along with the rest of the Pacifica lineup for 2021. It carries over unchanged for 2023, with the exception of the new Road Tripper packageadd.
What We Think
There's a lot to like about the Pacifica: Not only is it high-tech and practical, but it drives better than what's expected from a minivan. That improves with the plug-in model. Its instant-on electric torque makes it feel more peppy, while the low-mounted battery adds to a planted feel. Although the brake pedal is overly squishy, stopping power still suffices. Of course, the much-improved fuel economy and all-electric driving capability is highly appealing, too.
Like any Pacifica, the plug-in hybrid offers a versatile and functional cabin. It's unfortunate that its battery precludes the fitment of the standard Pacifica's clever Stow n' Go disappearing second-row seats, but versatility is still a strong point. Although the big infotainment screen and perforated upholstery look upscale, material quality is low elsewhere in the cabin.
The Pacifica Hybrid is a one-of-a-kind vehicle: There's no other PHEV minivan out there. But its singular status doesn't stop it from being a worthy competitor to vans and three-row SUVs, whether they're hybridized or not. Perhaps the biggest issue preventing more Pacifica Hybrid sales—versus the non-plug-in Toyota Sienna hybrid—is the Chrysler's near $50,000 base price. If that's not a deal-breaker, the Pacifica plug-in is worth considering.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Like the standard Pacifica, the Hybrid model has a 3.6-liter V-6 engine. However, it's paired with an electric motor drawing power from a 16-kWh battery. Total output measures 260 hp. Unlike the standard Pacifica AWD is not available; the plug-in is FWD only. However, it gets much better fuel economy than the standard Pacifica, getting 30 mpg and 82 mpg-e in combined city/highway driving, and offering up to 32 miles of all-electric range.
Safety Ratings and Features
Standard driver assist and active safety features on the Pacifica Plug-In include adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, front automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. Although the plug-in model has not been specifically safety tested, the Pacifica's long record of IIHS Top Safety Pick and NHTSA five-star overall safety scores indicate that the hybrid should protect its occupants well in a crash.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Interior capacities are identical between the Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid. However, the plug-in does not have the Stow n' Go second-row seats that can be had in the standard Pacifica due to the location of the battery.
The New Road Tripper Package
Pacifica Hybrid buyers have a new option this year to add flair to their plug-in people-movers. The Road Tripper package, based on the Touring L trim, adds graphics and 18-inch wheels in Lunar Gray, and badging has Brilliant Orange accents. The new option also adds Granite Crystal trim and a standard roof rack.
Technology
All Pacifica models come with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen that's equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. A 7.0-inch gauge cluster display is also included. In addition to a wireless charger, up to 12 USB ports are available between the three rows of seats. Family-oriented tech features include rear-seat entertainment displays and the FamCam, which uses a ceiling-mounted camera to show a live view of rear passengers on the infotainment screen. A surround-view parking camera system is standard. Premium audio systems with 13 or 19 speakers are available.
Recommended Trim
With all the standard equipment of the entry-level Touring L, it would be our pick in the Pacifica Hybrid range. Practical benefits include power-operated side and cargo doors, LED headlights, and three-zone climate control. In addition to the high-resolution 10.1-inch touchscreen, a surround-view parking camera system is standard. Leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, and illuminated cupholders are among its upscale touches. The Limited and Pinnacle trims above add features including ventilated front seats and improved audio systems, but the Pacifica Hybrid Touring L seems like the most sensible trim considering its approximately $49,000 starting price.
