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PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
drives more like a minivan than an SUV or sedan
MyRide.com
passing power with uplevel engine
Cars.com
mileage is slightly worse than large crossover SUVs
Edmunds
Even though most reviewers agree that the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is a solid vehicle, there are better options out there that more fully live up to the "crossover" title.
According to Cars.com, "solidity and stability have always been Pacifica hallmarks." This year, the Chrysler Pacifica received a new 4.0-liter V-6 rated at 253 horsepower; the base front-wheel-drive versions still get a smaller 3.8-liter, 200-horsepower V-6. The base engine and its "four-speed automatic" don’t make for thrilling performance in the Pacifica, which "tips the scales in SUV territory." To be brief, "it came up short in the passing lane."
Other reviewers were generally positive. The "the carlike handling from its Mercedes-Benz-sourced suspension inspires more confidence than typical minivans and truck-based sport-utilities," reports Edmunds.com, which also noted that the "steering feedback is solid and precise." However, handling over bumps tended to be a bit lackluster. Mileage was also just a tad "worse than large crossover SUVs like the Saturn Outlook and Mazda CX-9."
All weather conditions fared well for testers. Those at MyRide.com attested to the "confident handling in the dry weather of California's wine country, swooping into curves with the accelerator floored." But it also made "quick work" of the snowy weather in the Midwest. To navigate through frosty conditions, "all a driver has to do is a keep a light, steady foot on the gas pedal." MyRide.com additionally notes that the all-wheel drive "take[s] care of the rest" by "sending power to the tires that are gripping best."
All in all, the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica performed well, but it lacks pickup, and gas mileage may be an issue for some. TheCarConnection.com's experts felt that the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica made for a stable ride that provided the feel of an SUV, but with some occasional harshness.
Conclusion
Even though the Chrysler Pacifica was one of the first in the crossover realm, there are other options that provide more energetic pickup and greater passing power without fully entering SUV territory.
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