2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Eco-Friendly Family Minivan

Photo Source: Chrysler

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• 32 miles of EV-only range
• EPA-estimated 82 miles per gallon average of combined gasoline and electric driving
• $7,500 federal tax credit

What is the most efficient way to move the maximum number of people with minimal fuel consumption? The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid electric minivan makes a strong case for that claim. The Pacifica is elegant and not a low-cost option, at $64,205 MSRP (Plus destination fee), but it will move seven people and their luggage while delivering remarkable fuel efficiency. 

Readers must remember that the sting of the sticker price is alleviated by the Pacifica Hybrid’s eligibility for a $7,500 federal tax credit. More importantly, for sports carpools, around-town commuting, and errands, the Pacifica Hybrid’s approximately 32-mile electric vehicle-only driving range allows drivers to spend most of their time running on low-cost electrons from their homes instead of costly gasoline from a gas station.

How Many Miles Per Gallon Does the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Get?

Although electric vehicles also provide that inexpensive commuting capability, the Pacifica lets drivers hit the road with their families without charging or range concerns because it utilizes gasoline when necessary and only when necessary. The EPA estimates that in driving that relies on a mix of electricity and gas, the Pacifica has the equivalent of 82 miles per gallon. 

When powered by gasoline only, the minivan continues to function as a standard hybrid, with the electric motor recovering energy when coasting or decelerating and returning it when accelerating. The government notes that it scores 30 miles per gallon even when the battery has been depleted.

Convenient Cabin

The 2024 Pacifica Hybrid mounts its 16-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack in the underfloor storage bins that otherwise contain the Stow ’n Go folding second-row seats when they are not in use, so it boasts better-cushioned, more durable non-folding seats. When the less-comfortable folding seats are tasked with carrying child boosters or infant safety seats, their comfort is irrelevant. 

It is worth noting that the hybrid retains its third-row Stow ‘n Go seats and storage. The massive dual-pane panoramic sunroof bathes the interior of the vehicle in light that makes the second and third rows of seats feel more sophisticated and less claustrophobic than they otherwise might.

Sooth Driving Experience

When navigating through crowded parking lots, for example, the Pacifica Hybrid showcases its unexpectedly tight turning radius. Indeed, combined with its optional 360-degree camera and rear vision that is better than that of many SUVs, the Pacifica is simple to park, not contributing to any anxiety. 

Additionally, the hybrid drivetrain offers the advantage of torque fill. For context, the electric motor can assist the minivan’s 3.6-liter V-6 engine when accelerating out of slow corners while simultaneously making a steep climb. Combined output for the electric motor and gas-powered engine is 260 horsepower.

At the same time, the hybrid’s regenerative braking, engaged by twisting the rotary shifter to the “L” position, helps slow the van for the curves. This not only recharges the battery, but it takes the load off the brakes. This is especially relevant on downhill treks. The Pacifica Hybrid’s pitch and body roll through turns are superbly well-controlled considering the pleasant ride the van’s suspension provides while cruising on straighter roads. 

Consumer Reports Reliability Score

Admittedly, in the most recent test conducted by Consumer Reports, the Pacifica plug-in hybrid scored last in reliability. Chrysler announced this was due to some problems with the batteries in the Pacifica Hybrid’s first few years and that these issues have since been resolved. Commendably, the automaker provided a direct explanation of this.

“Pacifica Hybrid field data and reported customer concerns indicate significant improvement. In fact, the trend for vehicles with [three months in service] is approaching historic lows, which is what we want to see. As we do with all our models, we continue to closely monitor the Pacifica Hybrid’s performance using both internal reporting systems and J.D. Power data.”

–Christine Feuell, Chrysler brand CEO

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is Available at Cape Coral Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram!

Such an unflinching discussion of the previous problem and the solutions applied make me much more comfortable recommending the Pacifica Hybrid as a vehicle worth purchasing. With that in mind, if you are interested in buying the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, please visit Cape Coral Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Take a look at our new vehicle inventory or our quality pre-owned vehicles.