What you should know

Type: Four-door, front-wheel-drive minivan.

Engine (h.p.): 3.6-liter DOHC V6 with two electric motors (260). Transmission: Continuously variable (CVT).

Market position: There aren’t many competitors left in the minivan bracket, but those remaining few have the field to themselves. The Pacifica Hybrid’s truly unique plug-in powertrain option sets it well apart from the group.

Points: Nicely packaged model is matched by its good looks Roomy, ☛ comfortable interior does its part to coddle passengers on long trips ☛ Fuel-saving plug-in might actually pay for itself for high-miles drivers Plenty ☛ of low-end torque from two electric motor/generators Loss of under-floor ☛ stowage will be missed by some buyers.

Active safety: Blind-spot warning with cross-traffic alert (std.); lane-departure alert (opt.); active cruise control (opt.); emergency braking (opt.); pedestrian detection (opt.); 360-degree surroundview camera (opt.). MPGe (city/hwy comb.): 84, EV mode/32, hybrid. Base price (incl. dest.): $43,100.

Kia Sedona SX Limited Base price: $42,800 Well-finished van carries up to eight folks. Non-removable second-row seat(s).

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Base price: $42,300 If minivans aren’t your thing, check out this big and roomy hybrid hauler.

Honda Odyssey Touring Base price: $45,450 Comparably equipped minivan is the Pacifica’s prime competitor. Not a hybrid.