PACIFICA UPGRADES
FCA adds new technology
FCA rolled out a new model of the Windsor-built Pacifica featuring its Uconnect 5 communications technology and new safety features as part of a refreshing of its 2021 minivan lineup Thursday at the Chicago Auto Show.
The new all-wheel drive Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle is billed as the most luxurious minivan on the market and joins the L, LX, Touring, Touring L, Touring L-plus and Limited models in Canada.
The Pacifica will be the first FCA vehicles available with the new Uconnect 5 system that features a 10.1-inch touchscreen with processing speeds five times faster than the company’s previous technology. The rear-seat entertainment system also features two 10.1-inch screens embedded in the back of the front seats.
“Through 37 years and more than 15 million minivans sold, Chrysler has defined the minivan segment, and we plan to continue redefining it with the new 2021 Chrysler Pacifica,” said Tim Kuniskis, global head of Alfa Romeo and head of passenger cars — Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA — North America.
Pricing for the 2021 line up hasn’t been set, but orders will be taken beginning in the third quarter of 2020 with deliveries beginning in the fourth quarter of this year.
The company is hoping a sportier look and beefed up technology can help stem the flow of consumers to crossover vehicles and pickup trucks. Minivan sales have slumped significantly in the past two years, prompting FCA to introduce the Voyager as cheaper-priced, entry-level Pacifica in the U.S. last fall.
While FCA freshened up the exterior, it’s the technology and safety upgrades that may catch the eye of consumers.
The Uconnect system is at the heart of the new technology and moves the concept of vehicles as rolling computers further along.
The system is capable of handling over air software updates to improve performance and quality.
Uconnect 5 is compatible with both Android and Apple phones and offers a 4G Wi-fi hot spot and wireless charging.
The system brings Amazon’s Alexa into the vehicle allowing consumers to start their vehicle, unlock doors or virtually any other task they ask Alexa to do in their homes.
The touchscreen, the largest in its class, can be programmed for up to six individual profiles and two phones with Bluetooth can connect into the system at the same time.
The vehicle has a 10-inch rear quarter subwoofer to enhance sound quality.
“Not only does this new Pacifica look more capable, it is more capable,” Kuniskis said. “It delivers more standard safety features than any vehicle in the industry.”
In the cockpit, centre console options have been expanded to include the ultra wing options that blend into the dashboard in some models.
Storage has also been increased throughout the vehicle.
The front-end redesign, complete with a new grill and increased wheel cover choices, is aimed at giving Pacifica a sporty, SUV appearance.
A new colour, Fathom Blue, has also been introduced.
The sophisticated all-wheeldrive system automatically adjusts itself to determine whether it’s required.
The system will kick in from standing starts, but will turn itself off when not needed. It also adjusts to road and weather conditions and in the event it senses tire slippage it will automatically shift all available engine torque to the wheels with the most traction.
Among the other safety improvements are new LED headlights, tail lights and side lighting, as well as a pedestrian automatic emergency braking feature.