ECONOMICAL HAULER
Chrysler cleverly gets the jump on minivan competitors with its luxurious, plug-in 2017 Pacifica Hybrid Platinum minivan
It’s only right that Chrysler, credited as the innovator of the modern minivan in 1984, should unleash the segment’s first-ever plug-in hybrid version of its latest offering, the Pacifica.
It’s surprising that another manufacturer — Toyota, in particular — hasn’t come up with the idea before Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. After all, Toyota has inserted a hybrid system nearly across the breadth of its vast vehicle lineup, including crossovers, SUVs and autos, of both Toyota and luxury division Lexus lineage.
So while it might seem to be a no-brainer, Chrysler got there first. Fortunately, FCA has an excellent candidate for hybridization in its latest minivan.
Graced with handsome, modern styling inside and out, the Pacifica goes a long way toward dispelling the negative aura minivans seem to have acquired over the years. (Think “soccer mom.”)
Adding a high-tech drivetrain with excellent fuel economy can only help accelerate the minivan’s reacceptance into modern automotive society.
As a plug-in hybrid, the Pacifica is capable of traveling some 30-plus miles on electrical power alone before the gasoline engine needs to assist. With a full battery charge (about two hours with a 240-volt supply), the van can cruise around town for shopping, deliveries or other chores without using a drop of petro power. Recharging overnight, an owner could conceivably get around for days without visiting a gas station.
Road trips, of course, are a different matter. However, with its 32 mpg combined city/highway rating, the Pacifica still delivers economy-car thrift.
The Pacifica Platinum delivers nearluxury surroundings in its well-equipped cabin, from leather-clad (albeit somewhat hard) bucket seats up front, to second-row captain’s chairs, to an excellent audio/ communication/nav/climate control system.
The easy-driving van steers and corners much like a sedan, with superb visibility and excellent maneuverability. On the open road, smoothness prevails.
The minivan’s inherent advantages — interior space, easy entrance/egress, sedan like driving characteristics — still hold true. Now, economical hybrid operation has joined the advantages.