After a decade marked with reinventing and dominating the minivan segment by delivering unprecedented levels of safety, practicality, and technology - Chrysler is all set to embark on a new journey in the coming decade. With its most awarded minivan since 2016, the Pacifica, there's no question, whatsoever, about the kind of impact that minivan had and the way it revolutionized the segment. Now, in the year 2020, Chrysler is clelebrating all those years of innovation and leadership with an exclusive 35th Anniversary Edition.
Like the name suggests, the 35th Anniversary Edition Pacifica gets several distinct exterior and interior features. There's also an available RED S version of the minivan which further unleashes its capabilities that made it a leader in the minivan segment. The year 2020 also makes this Chrysler the most awarded minivan for four years in row. From being declared as the IIHS Top Safety Pick to winning Consumer Guide's Best Buy Award, surely it has never compromised on anything.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
After several rivals unpdating their 2020 lineup in the segment, can the Pacifica still manage to hold its rank at the top? Well, that is a little ambiguous as of now. Nevertheless, Chrysler is celebrating its 35th anniversary and we would undoubtedly recommend you to go ahead and taste their three and a half decades of ‘Inspiration’ and ‘Innovation’. As for the likes of Honda Odyssey and Dodge Grand Caravan, they know what pleases people too and are well-versed with the game.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan three quarter view
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan rear three quarter view
8.0/10 Pricing and Features
7.0/10 Engine and Performance
8.0/10 Fuel Economy
8.5/10 Interior
8.0/10 Exterior
8.0/10 Safety
7.5/10 Competition
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Pricing and Features
8.0/10
Pacifica’s submodel lineup used to be huge. It offered customers a plethora of trims to choose from but with the arrival of the new decade Chrysler decided to skim their lineup. A lot of it resulted from the low sales of its L and LX models. As of now, there are four major trims to choose from; Touring, Touring L, Touring L Plus and Touring Limited. Additionally, for the year 2020, there are two exclusive editions available too. One is the RED S version while the other is the 35th Anniversary Edition offered only on the Touring L, L Plus and Limited models.
Now, even in its least fancy form, the minivan is loaded with features to attract. Still, climbing up the trim levels opens up luxuries including a larger touchscreen, heated and ventilated seats, dual-screen rear entertainment and more premium leather upholstery. The aforementioned exclusive variants get several trim-specific badgings that clearly set them apart. Rest assured, however, that even with base Touring model, starting at $33,745, you will not end up feeling lacklustre. In case your pockets run a little deeper than that, opting for the 35th Anniversary Edition, beginning at about $39,000 for the Touring L variant, should do the trick.
Trim
Touring
Touring L
Touring L Plus
Touring Limited
Red S
35th Anniversay Edition
MSRP (FWD)
$31,386
$34,036
$36,687
$41,061
$44.440
$41,988
Key Features
Honeycomb grille pattern
Adds/Upgrades to Touring
Adds/Upgrades to Touring L
Adds/Upgrades to Touring L Plus
Red S exterior badging
35th Anniversay badge on liftgate
Chrome exterior trim
Eight-way power passenger seat with power lumbar adjustment
Heated steering wheel
20-inch wheels
Red S interior badging
Liquid chrome wing badge
Fog Lights
Heated front seats
Heated second-row seats
Red S appearance package
Red Nappa leather-trimmed seats
All black interior
LED taillights
Second- and third-row retractable sunshades
8.4-inch touchscreen
Hands-free liftgate and hands-free sliding doors
Advanced SafetyTec Group
35th Anniversary embroidered logo on front floor mats
Power liftgate
Leather upholstery
Navigation and the Alpine audio system
Premium leather upholstery
KeySense Programmable key fob
Nappa leather seats and perforated inserts
Power-sliding rear doors
Remote engine start
Third-row USB port
Second-row USB port and a power-folding third-row seat
20-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system
Cranberry wine accent on steering wheel and door trim pannel
Full keyless entry
Automatic climate control
Ambient lighting
LED foglights
20-inch Black Noise wheels
20-inch Aluminum Wheels
Satellite radio and a charge-only first-row USB port
Two sunroofs
Power-folding mirrors
Ventilated front seats
8-passanger seating
Cranberry wine bezels on instrument pannel and door handles
Which trim to go for?
Many buyers will be tempted to buy the base model as they would be getting mostly everything they are looking for. But, if you have a deeper pocket and want to take your big family out for their weekend trip in style, you can opt for the Touring Limited trim with the 35th Anniversary Edition package. This will most defnitely cover up all your preferences and personal needs you expect from a minivan.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Engine and Performance
7.0/10
Even after 3 years there had been no change in the design spectrum of this minivan. So was the case with its powertrain too. To our disappointment, the same story continues into 2020 with the 4th model year. Under the hood, the Pacifica stores a 3.6-liter V6 mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The 24V VVT engine cranks 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Also, there is no other engine option available.
Do not let that doubt you this minivan's capabilities. The power delivery is smooth and punch is plenty for purpose. Initial acceleration is on-point without any reluctance. The 9-speed 948TE automatic transmission, however, can feel clumsy at times but that becomes more and more understandable as you begin to live with it. There is no major disturbance in changing gears and you can cruise through the freeway without any interruptions.
Models
Chrysler Pacifica Touring
Dodge Grand Caravan SE
Honda Odyssey LX
Ford Flex SE*
Kia Sedona L
MSRP
$31,386
$27,595
$31,085
$30,285
$27,980
Engine
3.6L V6 24V VVT
3.6L Regular Unleaded V6
3.5L Regular Unleaded V6
3.5L Ti-VCT V6
3.3L Gasoline Direct Injection V6
Drivetrain
FWD
FWD
FWD
FWD
FWD
Transmission
9-Speed 948TE Automatic
6-Speed Automatic
9-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Automatic
8-Speed Automatic
Power
287hp@6,400rpm
283hp@6,400rpm
280hp@6,000rpm
287hp@6,000rpm
276hp@6,000rpm
Torque
262lb-ft@4,000rpm
260lb-ft@4,400rpm
262lb-ft@4,700rpm
254lb-ft@4,000rpm
248lb-ft@5,200rpm
*2019 model year data for reference
The minivan segment is the land of cut-throat competition. On paper, each brand's offering has been priced similarly and they deliver identical power figures too. Just for the sake of speaking things out though, the Pacifica is the most downright the most powerful minivan in the segment followed closely by the Ford Flex.
What kind of Performance should you expect from the Pacifica?
Well first of all, let us bless the ones planning to take their new minivan for a spin to get their adrenaline pumping. Now, the engine is punchy, what else do you expect from a V6. Only, you need to be a little heavy-footed to drill out that performance. Initial acceleration feels smooth but it is when you jab the pedal with all your might that the Pacifica starts to shine.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica minivan hits 0-60 MPH in 7.4 sec
This boxy van's 60 mph run is fair for a minivan. As far as the quarter-mile race is concerned, together the 9-speed automatic and 3.6-liter V6 do an impressive job of keeping it in the bulk of the powerband, maintaining constant acceleration. That allows this minivan to finish the quarter-mile race with enough pride.
How good is the Handling characteristics of the Pacifica?
Surprisingly enough, this minivan is pretty decent and quite maneuverable. The steering is light and has a centred feel to it. Yes, road communication could have been better but the response to the steering inputs conveys confidence on tricky roads. Then if we jump to body roll, yes there is some. The boxy shape sparks body lean on high speeds but it is quite well controlled. It is the transmission where you need to improvise.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica minivan three quarter view
The 9-speed automatic unit's downshifts are delayed and you will often find it struggling for the right gear in traffic. Thankfully, the Pacifica has a comfortable cabin to keep you relaxed at all times. That extra space does play a major role in the overall size of the vehicle. However, these dimensions don't take a toll on the performance. The Pacifica is no corner carver but it won't disappoint the enthusiast inside of you.
Does the overall size of the Pacifica affect its Braking?
Minivans are known for their utilitarian nature and better reliability, and this minivan is no different. One important factor which contributes most to Pacifica’s reliability when driving is its braking. The pedal is easy to modulate and has a relatively short travel distance for such a big car. Even the response from the brakes is immediate.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan has 13 in. brake rotor size
The front and rear wheels all get similarly sized brakes. They do a commendable job of bringing it to a stress-free stop, which is better than some of the sedans on sale in the market, and even some entry-level sports cars. Sure the long wheelbase and overall heft come into play but they are very well countered.
Model
Chrysler Pacifica Touring
Dodge Grand Caravan SE
Honda Odyssey LX
Ford Flex SE*
Kia Sedona L
Brake Rotors Front
13"
11.9"
12.6"
12.8"
12.6"
Brake Rotors Rear
13"
12"
13"
13.0"
11.9"
Curb Weight
4330 lbs
4510 lbs
4354 lbs
4637 lbs
4411 lbs
60-0 MPH
119 ft
N/A
123 ft
125 ft
118 ft
*2019 model year data for reference
Comparing with other vans, that Chrysler is lightest. That expalins the reason for its performance in the panic-stop test. It is one van, however, the Kia Sedona, which boasts competitive braking while still carrying more weight. No other minivan can claim such praises.
If minivans were to trade utility for efficiency, this segment would not have survived. It is that efficiency, however, which brings soccer moms or any family person to Chrysler’s showroom. The V6 under the hood of the Pacifica is extremely efficient and better than some of the prime players in the segment. In the city, you can expect enough economy to roam around aimlessly. That only stretches out on the highway. The overall or combined mileage is pretty long lasting for a minivan.
Model
Chrysler Pacifica Touring
Dodge Grand Caravan SE
Honda Odyssey LX
Ford Flex SE*
Kia Sedona L
MPG (City)
18
17
19
16
18
MPG (Highway)
28
25
28
23
24
MPG (Combined)
22
20
22
19
21
Fuel Capacity
19.0 gallons
20.0 gallons
19.5 gallons
18.6 gallons
21.1 gallons
Range (City/Hwy/Combined
342/532/418 miles
340/500/400 miles
371/546/429 miles
298/428/353 miles
380/506/443 miles
Emission
(Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)
8.0
8.9
8.0
9.2
8.4
*2019 model year data for reference
Chrysler’s fuel economy numbers are visibly superior for the class. It is only its average-sized fuel tank that is a bit of a disappointment, but not big enough to affect much. When you have vans like Dodge Grand Caravan and Honda Odyssey, the competition usually hits a dead-end with no winner. On the flip side, it is easy to know who finishes last, or should we say first? The Ford Flex is left dry with its combined mpg of 19 miles, making it the least efficient of the lot.
For the gas-only model, though, you can either go for a regular bench or the captain’s chairs. The seats do sit high above the ground but feel higher due to the low floor. Access to the second row is through a sliding door that opens nice and wide. The third-row access is easy too and can comfortably accommodate three pre-teens or teens.
Model
Chrysler Pacifica L minivan
Dodge Grand Caravan SE
Honda Odyssey LX
Ford Flex SE*
Kia Sedona L
Seating Capacity
7
7
7
7
7
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
40.1/63.8/41.1
39.8/63.7/40.7
40.7/63.1/40.9
41.8/58.4/42.6
39.8/63.9/40.9
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
39.6/63.0/39.0
39.3/64.1/36.5
39.5/61.6/40.9
40.5/58.1/44.3
39.4/63.1/41.1
*2019 model year data for reference
With large windows and thin pillars, visibility is a strong point on the Pacifica. The quality of the interior is nice with lots of soft touches but the same cannot be said for the material used on the steering wheel. Other features like the Conversation mirror gives parents full access to what their children are doing at the back. So overall, this minivan is great on the inside.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan front seats
This brings us to the RED S and 35th Anniversary edition trims. They transform this already well put together interior into something extremely exclusive. There's credo-specific badging, Nappa leather upholstery, which is striking red in the RED S package, and other stand-alone amenities. However, the Odyssey and Sedona have slightly more second row space.
How good is the Infotainment system on the Pacifica?
Like all modern-day Chryslers, it comes loaded with a modern infotainment setup. The touchscreen system is much refined than previous versions and visibility during the day is decent as well.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan infotainment display
There are a ton of standard features and plenty of connectivity options. Here goes a list of few of the most interesting features aboard the 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system:
UConnect 4, Navigation
Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity
USB, Aux ports with 4G LTE hotspot
SiriusXM and HD radio connectivity
506W, 13 Speaker Alpine music system
Steering wheel mounted audio controls
What features to expect on the inside of the Pacifica?
The Pacifica has been a massive sales success for Chrysler, owing to a number of reasons. One of the reasons being the massive number of creature comfort features on offer. Here is a list of some of the most notable ones.
8 Passenger Seating
Heated and ventilated seats
Power folding third-row bench
Nappa leather embossed seats
Dual screen rear entertainment
Integrated hand vacuum
2 Additional Key Fobs (Fleet)
10-inch HD touchscreens
How good is Pacifica's Cargo capacity?
The Pacifica is a big utilitarian when it comes to cargo space. Even with all its seats up, it offers enough stowage. A great feature about it is the Stow-n-Go which allows you to fold the second and third-row seats into the floor to completely open up the entire cargo bay. It is the only minivan, mind you, which can do that.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica minivan cargo area
Clearly, this one knows what the people looking for a minivan want out of one, and it delivers. It has best overall cargo space behind first row seats of all full-size SUVs, which makes it easy to understand why it is so popular among families.
Model
Chrysler Pacifica Touring
Dodge Grand Caravan SE
Honda Odyssey LX
Ford Flex SE*
Kia Sedona L
Cargo Capacity
140.5 cu.ft.
140.3 cu.ft.
158.0 cu.ft.
83.2 cu.ft.
142.0 cu.ft.
*2019 model year data for reference
The Honda Odyssey is the best in the lot and has the biggest cargo. Other vans like the Caravan and the and Kia Sedona are similar-sized to that of the Pacifica. Again, the Ford Flex finishes last.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan interior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan interior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan interior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan interior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan interior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan interior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan interior
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Exterior
8.0/10
Although the majority of minivans look the same, the all-American Pacifica Minivan adds a little flair to its design. It is easily the most full-figured van modeled over a boxy structure, and that is a strong design statement. Up ahead, the Chrysler’s logo and honeycomb grille look better than ever and feel like they was built exclusively for this van.
2020 Chrysler Pacifica minivan three quarter view
Despite the big dimensions it looks smaller. The Pacifica’s soft exterior and curvaceous metal sheet makes it stand out amongst other minivans. For enhanced presence, the RED S features one-of-a-kind 20-inch, black-nose wheels. As for the 35th Anniversary Edition, it wraps the exterior in trim-specific badges. But whatever your choice is, this minivan surely stands out.
Model
Chrysler Pacifica Touring
Dodge Grand Caravan SE
Honda Odyssey LX
Ford Flex SE*
Kia Sedona L
Curb Weight
4330 lbs
4510 lbs
4354 lbs
4637 lbs
4411 lbs
Length
203.8"
202.8"
203.2"
201.8"
201.4"
Width
79.6"
78.7"
78.5"
75.9"
78.1"
Height
69.9"
68.9"
68.3"
68.0"
68.5"
Ground Clearance
5.1"
5.8"
4.5"
6.0"
6.7"
Wheelbase
121.6"
121.2"
118.1"
117.9"
120.5"
*2019 model year data for reference
Size-wise the Pacifica is quite large. It is the largest in the segment, in fact. Despite that, it is the lightest of the lot. This is where the Ford Flex eventually shines. It is the bulkiest but has the shortest wheelbase.
What are the Exterior highlights of the 2020 Pacifica?
Like the interiors, the Pacifica comes with a plethora of features on the outside too. The most notable highlights that make this minivan appear less boxy include the following features:
MOPAR Protective Clear Film
Inflatable Spare Tire Kit W/Sealant
MOPAR Running Boards/Splash Guards
MOPAR Splash Guards - Vehicle Set
Tri-Pane Panoramic Sunroof
20 ``x 7.5" Aluminum Black Noise Wheels
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan Exterior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan Exterior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan Exterior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan Exterior2020 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan Exterior
Dodge Caravan is exactly what the idea of an ideal van looks like. It has space for seven, similar to the Pacifica, and there is enough power to counter the city’s traffic and hit the country road on the weekend. Though it’s a decent van and does everything the Pacifica can, as a buyer you cannot resist the Pacifica’s charm. In terms of fuel economy, the Chrysler's V6 is more efficient. It has better utility too. Considering there is not much difference in the price, the Pacifica is a clearly better choice.
2020 Dodge Grand Caravan
Chrysler Pacifica vs. Honda Odyssey
The Honda Odyssey is the Chuck Norris of the minivans. It’s the segment leader even though it boasts a higher price. Be it performance, practicality or utility, that Honda is hard to beat. In comparison to the Pacifica, the Odyssey is more nimble and child-friendly too. However, one thing which only the Chrysler gets are the Stow ‘n Go seats. The Pacifica brings something unique with its design and makes a tough case.
2020 Honda Odyssey
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Final Verdict
Chrysler has well-kept the tradition of continuing to raise the bar by integrating best-in-class features in their cars. Even though there has been a refrsh of its lineup, the Pacifica is still offered at a cheaper price tag than its rivals. Launched later in 2019, for the 2020 model year, marks the 35 years of the successful service Chrysler has provided with its minivan. There is no questioning as to what makes the 2020 Pacifica the go-to choice of families.
