2008 Chrysler Pacifica: Road Test
2008 Chrysler Pacifica ▼
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- MSRP: $24,635 - $36,195
- Invoice: $22,745 - $33,034
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Our road test for the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica help you decide if a 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 5.5 |
The 2WD LX model's 3.8 V6 furnishes fair movement off the line but can feel labored uphill and in passing maneuvers. New 4.0 V6 is stronger. A 2WD Limited did an impressive 7.4 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Its 6-speed automatic upshifts smoothly and downshifts readily to provide confident passing power.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a front-drive LX averaged 13.9 mpg in mostly city driving. Test 2WD Limiteds averaged 14.6-14.7 mpg including gas-eating acceleration runs. Test AWD Limited averaged 15.3 mpg in city/highway driving. Chrysler recommends regular-grade gas for the 3.8 V6 and 89 octane for the 4.0.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
With standard 17-inch tires, Pacifica is more absorbent over bumps and ruts than most midsize SUVs. Dips and swells induce some bounding body motions. There's little ride penalty with the Limited's 19s.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
Decent balance in turns, with little noseplow. Noticeable body lean and numb steering blunt any feeling of agility. The brakes are strong and progressive while showing little nosedive in simulated panic stops.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Both engines are somewhat coarse, though the 4.0 V6 is noticeably smoother than the 3.8. Little wind noise. Road noise is adequately suppressed except for rough-surface tire thrum and thump.
CONTROLS
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.4 |
Clear main gauges are distinguished by the available navigation screen dead ahead of the driver in the speedometer face, with controls to the immediate right. The system is easy to use with familiarization, though its screen and controls are positioned for driver use only. The available in-dash six-disc changer plays CDs and DVDs, a plus for families.
DETAILS
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Pacifica's interior materials are appropriate for the price, nothing more. Assembly quality is fine.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.1 |
Seats are soft yet supportive, though some testers have difficulty finding a comfortable position. The sunroof housing cuts into headroom for taller occupants. Good outward visibility for most drivers, though the rear headrests and DVD entertainment system screen can obscure the aft view. Some testers find over-the-shoulder visibility obscured by thick rear pillars. The passenger seat is not adjustable for height and can feel slightly confining. There are fold-down armrests on both seats. Entry and exit is basically step-in easy, but the doors should open wider.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Adequate legroom in the LX model, whose 2nd-row bench seat is stationary. Touring and Limited have 2nd-row buckets that slide fore and aft to benefit either 2nd- or 3rd-row legroom. With buckets, the long center-floor console extends between the 1st and 2nd rows. As in front, the sunroof housing cuts into headroom for taller passenger. High windowsills and tall front headrests create a confined feel. The 3rd row is more elevated but sized for preteens, and access is a challenge.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.6 |
Grocery bags fit upright behind the 3rd row. Third-row seatbacks easily flip flat from back of vehicle, but only the long of limb can lift them from there. Folded 2nd-row buckets are bridged by a panel to create a broad but not fully flat load floor. Shallow underfloor bin and available power liftgate are useful touches. Chrysler lists maximum cargo volume of 92.7 cu ft for the five-seat model, 79.5 for the others.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5.7 |
Pacifica feels smaller inside than its generous exterior dimensions suggest. And it drives like a heavy minivan, which we think is better than it driving like a heavy SUV. In the end, it successfully mixes traditional vehicle types to create a versatile wagon with some upscale appeal.
Total Score
| 2WD LX | AWD LX | 2WD Limited | AWD Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 65 | 66 | 67 | 65 | 63.7 |
Total Score: 66
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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