Alex, one of the best things you do in your reviews is when a new concept is introduced (i.e. MPGe) you always do a quick step-back and review moment where you clarify the concept being described. I love that.
i would buy one just to use as a panel van. 30mpg plus 30 miles electric range can save my business tons in operating cost and total cost of ownership. being able to hold 7 people means payload should be good enough for my equipment
That's a great concept. Those trucks could fit a massive battery array along the entire bottom floor pan. Weight at the bottom and close to the ground will create good balance for the truck as well. Could maybe get a 350-400 mile range conservatively.
I own one of these Pacifica hybrids and my family loves it. My wife and i have five kids so this van meets our needs and van is a joy to drive. The fuel savings are incredible! Chrysler did a great job designing this vehicle.
Any issues? I've read about some uconnect problems, engine run problems (where the engine runs in cold weather mode even when it's not too cold), and some power loss problems.
Skyhawk1987Turbo Stupid Honda or Toyota minivan? What the hell does that mean? Without them, Chrysler would still be trying to sell the public T&C junk.
The new Odyssey is a nice minivan as well & sells better here in Toronto than the Caravan or Town & Country. The Sienna however is just getting old, but the minivan market is so small I don't blame Toyota for not refreshing it. Would be nice to see a Sienna Hybrid compete against this in the future.
why do people keep repeating the same old nonsense? what's the point of accusing a sensible family hauler for being 'boring' and 'old fashioned'? there's nothing wrong with a practical and restrained design. how 'interesting' does a car needs to be anyway? are the lexus nx/rx designs that look like props from 1980s alien B-movies 'interesting' enough?
I never tend to leave comments but this i got to say! Your reviews are by far the best reviews on youtube.... PERIOD!!! Congratulations!!! we bought our Pacifica Hybrid last month thanks to this reviews!!! THANKS!!
No HID headlights? No memory driver's seat? NO HEATED SECOND ROW? Argh, that sucks. Halogens are dangerously dim, memory seats are very useful for multiple drivers (which a vehicle like this will likely have), and heated seats are much more important in electric vehicles, as using the cabin heater significantly reduces the range. It makes no sense that the standard Pacifica would have a feature that would have been more useful in the hybrid! It would be nice to have an EV or hybrid that adds or keeps all features instead of taking them away. By the way, your reviews are some of my favorite ones of any channel. I appreciate your attention to detail. Keep it up!
I wasn't watching car review videos before, but now I do because this superb channel has high-quality consistent well-edited format and a pleasant fluent commentator. So, thanks.
As usual great review! I love how he gives you the numbers so you can calculate if it's worth getting an the comparisons. For me, this car, if you need a great 7 passenger car with storage and do at least 1 road trip every 2 months or more and do allot of traveling with more than 2 people, is totally worth purchasing. Missing some features sucks but I could probably do without it. The stow and go is the biggest "aww man come on" part of not being able to use. Also, I would mention that there isn't enough data on long term ownership cost of a hybrid power train from Chrysler (it is a Chrysler so reliability may be meh). Repairs on a hybrid might be more costly than for a regular has engine. If you don't fit into the family of three or more, do multiple trips with 3 or more, weekend warrior type, road trip type, this isn't for you. The regular minivan to me isn't worth a purchase unless your use rate is even higher than the use cases for the hybrid. Add in you are a Uber driver or something and maybe... The regular minivan would be a lease if you know you will need it at least 2 weekends a month, or a rental because you use this style of car once every 2 months on average and the occasional road trip.
I’ve watched a number of your reviews, and I find them to be the most through and in-depth vehicle reviews on the net! Thank you so much for all the work that you do in making this presentation!!! ☮️🖖🏽
Impressive review. Really appreciate the list of deletions between the hybrid and standard Pacifica and the explanation on their MPGe. Chrysler hit a home run with this!
This is the most thorough review I've seen. I've already decided to buy one but this was still very helpful (It's April 2018 and I'm waiting to see what the 2019 models have; hopefully LED headlamps). But although your reviews do an excellent job of balancing the benefits and shortcomings, there is one thing you failed to consider. Every review I've read or watched sees the lack of stow-and-gp 2nd row seats as a detriment. While this may be true for families with varying needs, minivans aren't just for families. I'm single and rarely, if ever, expect to use the 2nd or 3rd row of seats. I'm getting this car (in preference to other PHEVs) for it's cargo capacity. The first thing I intend to do is pull out the 2nd row and collapse the 3rd row. It's unlikely that I will ever put them back. I wish I could remove the 3rd row too. Not only does removing them open up even more cargo space but it lowers the weight of the car. Those two 2nd row seats cost 130 lbs. So the second thing I intend to do is get out my tools and see what's involved in getting rid of the 3rd row.
Alex, you are amazing. Thanks so much for doing all these reviews. Your knowledge is vast and the comparisons you make are outstanding. Keep up the great work!
Can you use this hybrid to keep the cabin cool/warm while camping in it, like you can in the Toyota hybrids? In other words; will it start itself up to charge the battery if you're sleeping in it, and you run the AC/heater? If the answer is yes - can you also lock the vehicle doors while you've got it set that way?
Alex: Great Review! I sat in this vehicle at the Detroit/North American Auto Show and was really impressed....except for the front seats which I personally found exceptionally uncomfortable. I am thin, 6'4" and thought they were flat, firm and without sufficient bolstering. (Normally I agree with your seat comfort assessment...)
"Chrysler has recalled roughly 1,700 of the Pacifica Hybrids built and sold to date. The issue is related to a potentially faulty diode in an electronics module, which can stop functioning altogether, leading to a powertrain shutdown."
Love it. Beautiful styling, powerful, specious, efficient. Crazy it's made by FCA, who makes things like the Challenger Demon and told people to not buy the Fiat 500e. First Hybrid/Plug-In Hybrid minivan in the US, if not the world. The only thing I would consider if I needed one, besides the Tesla Model X, if could afford.
Chrysler... a company whose cars such as the Town and Country have been plagued with electrical and engine issues for the past 6 years. Not a company I'd jump into for a full hybrid atm with triple the electrical potential problems over their non hybrids.. Been 6 months and 3k out of my own pocket and Chrysler hasn't even figured out whats wrong with my 14 Chrysler Town and Country. Good luck with this car. Hopefully they fixed the issues with their new version of the fail Pentastar V6. Chrysler hidden issues with these motors is no secret. An internet search is all it takes.
nice and detailed review as always. can you please provide some information on the recent issues of van stops while running and Chrysler is recalling them for fix. how serious the issue is and how it is affecting potential buyers.
Read the recent jdpower report. Pacifica ranks highest in its class! www.jdpower.com/cars/articles/jd-power-studies/2017-us-initial-quality-study-results
A visit to the Chrysler Pacifica owner forums reveals owners complaints of serious problems w/ Pacifica PHEV's. They stop running, get towed to the dealers where they sit for days, awaiting parts/repairs. Some owners mentioned the problem reoccurring, after they were "fixed". Too bad FCA has such a broad, dismal, frequency of failure track record.
This is a soccer mom/dad van. Most owners who are having no problems are unlikely to be visiting car specific forums. People who have problems tend to complain, hence what you see on that forum.
Not providing glovebox lighting is like saying: VI AR THE GODS OF AUTOMATION. VI GIVE YOU HYBRID. VI DONT GIVE YOU ALL SO YOU DONT GET OVERCONFIDENT. Anyway, good review as always - but weird Chrysler would miss out on some features.
Hi Alex, just wondering if you had any information on the expected lifetime of the battery. While I see the battery warranty is relatively easy to find... I can't find any information on what that battery warranty means. IE 10yrs / 160,000 k (in canada) sounds great... Except I don't find any fine print that states what 'defective' looks like. IE is 70% of range in 10 years considered 'OK'? Thanks!
Is the low gear mode limited to a maximum speed? On long trips, where you might not be able to charge the battery from the grid during the night, you might want use the low gear to maintain an intermediate level of charge on the battery.
Why so much features are removed from the Pacifica hybrid over the regular Pacifica is odd. You think the Hybrid would be the halo model in the lineup, but even HID are missing? Still the fact a PHEV minivan exist is great. Problem is most families still are so sold on SUVs that I think a PHEV Durango would have sold better.
David Wolf but features such as home link transmitter and memory seats? Those are just lightweight electronics. Even no glovebox lighting? It makes no sense.
@wiibaron Oh please considering you're paying ~$50k for what is clearly not an economy vehicle, I don't think that is too much to ask. Don't have to be all stuck up about it.
Thanks for the review, really great year for plug in hybrids.. Hopefully within the next few years everyone will be looked at funny for not driving the plug in hybrid version of their desired car.
Plug in...what costs are involved to accommodate the electric line in your garage for the plug in? Also, what 'risks' are involved when say, traveling cross-country to finding recharging plug in stations?
I paid $500 for a 240 V charger and another $500 for an electrician to install the wiring. This was 5 years ago and I believe the costs have come down since. I also had a 200 amp panel already. If you need an additional panel, the costs will be higher. You could charge with a 120 V plug but it would take a good deal longer. As for cross-country, since this thing runs on gas when the battery is drained, it's not a problem (assuming you can find a gas station).
Hey Alex, have you heard any update on the reasons why this vehicle has been SO delayed in its release? We ordered one back in December and are still waiting!! I've seen recap notices about faulty diods and only have a temp fix for now... we would still love to get this car, but I seriously question Chrysler's quality with the severity of this problem/ delay...
I did not see this here (I may have overlooked it), but I've read that when the Pacifica Hybrid goes over 75 mph in EV mode, the engine will turn on, correct? If so, have you (or any other Pacifica Hybrid owners out there) noticed if it will continue mostly using the battery until depleted or will it work effectively like the "hold mode" in other PHEVs?
As usually an excellent review, thx Alex. No auto dimming mirrors seem to be a bit strange, they must have consume too much electricity ;). FCA bring that to Europe, whatever badge to stick to that!
Those 0-60 times for the regular Pacifica (and the Toyota Sienna FWD which would be faster than the AWD model) are better than a 1960 Chrysler 300F, which probably got about half the mpg of those non-hybrids while polluting about a thousand times more. Ah, the Good Olde Days!
We need to buy a new Minivan. Hesitating between 3: 1) Kia Sedona 2) Chrysler Pacifica (maybe the Hybrid) 3) Honda Odyssey All of them would be the new version (2019 or 2020 if they come out in August), and the top of the line ones. Which one would you recommend and why?
Also, it would be nice if Chrysler embed hold-down tie-off points inside the cabin for hauling cargo. Also: a peanut light in the glove box can hardly cost much.
I currently have a minivan converted to a camper van. It seems a hybrid would make sense in that application, if the high voltage,14 kwh main battery maintains the charge on the 12 v low voltage battery, where low voltage, low power devices are drawing power. In my camper the maximum energy I ever use to power my devices is 0.4 kwh, That seems inconsequential when you have a 14 kwh battery on board that has a lot of charge left on it.
Should I go through the trouble and trade in my leased 17' CX-9 for this hybrid? I can use the fuel savings. Currently I get about 570 km range on 65 litre if I drive really sober. But around 500 km if I drive rough. If I can reach 800-850 km range with this pacifica, would my trouble be worth it? I know I might have to pay some fees. But at the time I needed the car, Pacifica wasn't available in my area for a few more months.
Can't give you a definite Yes or No, as it really depends on your needs and usual driving routes, as well as your actual location and local/government incentives. Do you drive locally often? Do you really need a large vehicle? How high (or low) are your local utility rates, and do they provide different rates for different times? Right now, it's probably very difficult or impossible to order a 2017, which will leave you with more time to go through the lease and reduce/remove the trade-in penalty. If you do need more than 5 seats, that one, to me, is a clear winner. But again, Your Mileage May Vary!
Alex, what's your opinion on a mini van for a retired couple? I love the looks and the space to carry grand kids or friends or just have a smooth riding vehicle. My wife says "No I'm done with my mini van days" She had a Ford Aerostar.
Still no apple CarPlay? The Kia Sedona has had that for 2 model years already. Also a lot of features missing for no obvious reason from the top of the line Pacifica
I'm not sure how you can justify installing a less recent version of Uconnect. Android Auto and CarPlay are musts for many. Why offer an older version?
The loss of some of those premium features is disappointing but not a deal breaker for me (since I've never had them in a vehicle anyway). But I was really disappointed over the lack of HID headlamps. Every hybrid or plug-in I've ever owned at least had the option for HID's or LEDs. I didn't used to be a fan of LEDs but the LED headlamps in my Volt are fantastic! Would it be easy to order the HID parts separately and install them in the Pacifica Hybrid, or are we looking at needing to completely replace the headlamp assembly to do that?
To edit: Chrysler’s first “in-hours” hybrid design (above); and at 31:10, Active “nose” cancellation - would that work on my mother-in-law? Nice job overall, though. The last one went so fast I could only understand about half of what you said. Good to see you tapped the brakes a bit in this one.
Another great review, Alex! Your review of the 2014 Durango is what drove us to purchase one. Now we're looking at a Pacifica. Would you purchase this or the non-hybrid version? I really wish this had some of the luxuries of the non-hybrid. Why didn't they put in memory seats at least?
Thanks for the detailed review. I wish a few of the unavailable items were available as options (homelink, memory seat, HID, dimming mirrors, in that order), and I'm bummed by your "B-" handling rating (we currently have a 2006 Sienna that I'd give an A for handling w/ Goodyear Assurance ConforTred Touring H-rated tires). Maybe by 2018 some of that will change. I've been burned by buying a first-model-year vehicle before, so I'd wait at least a year before getting one of these, but it does look nice. Q: I can lay 4x8' sheets of plywood flat on the floor in my 06 Sienna. Can that be done in the Pacifica? Not that it's a big deal, but it has come in handy once.
I am a proud owner of this vehicle and our kids would be disappointed that you didn't cover the dual touchscreens in the second row. it allows for Blu-ray or DVD playback on each screen as well as built in games that pass the time away. Maybe a followup video on Infotainment options for cars?
Mr. Alex! I will like to begin by saying that I love all your videos they are very informative. based on those videos I have decided to buy a Chrysler Pacifica hybrid although I have heard many rumors that it is suffering of a numerous defects with the infotainment system and the power Distribution. I would love to know if you can come in on those and if you will recommend this vehicle? I thank you in advance for taking the time of reading this comment keep up the good work!
Excellent review and comparison. I have been waiting the Pacifica to come in stock in San Diego. For the tow package, do you know if we can add it after market ?
I'm not why you quit picking in the Volt fuel economy calculations. The Volt gives both readings, one that counts electricity as free and one that factors in the electrical energy content. If you have both vehicles, you can absolutely compare them apples to apples.
The CX-9 is a better drive especially with AWD, but the Pacifica Hybrid if you charge every opportunity & a home charger, would be significantly cheaper to run. Also the Pacifica would sit 7 people much more comfortably than any SUV in existence.
Depends on what you'll use it for. If you're looking for AWD and the "fun factor," then the CX 9 is your best bet. If you're looking to fit 7 people and their cargo comfortably and avoid gas for your commutes, then the Pacifica is your best bet. On a personal note, I like Mazda's. I used to own a Mazda 3 and it is the most fun I've had in a car, especially on windy, hilly terrain. I expect the CX 9 would be fun too. I don't have much experience driving Chrysler's and their reputation for reliability (or lack thereof) give me pause.
Alex, can this be charged with a regular home 240 V outlet, or do you need to have a special outlet installed in your home by an electrician, as a Chrysler person in another video suggested?
If you have a true and proper 240 V outlet (like the type your dryer uses) then you can buy a charger from Clipper Creek. They sell various charger harnesses (known as EVSE) that can plug into different types of 240 V plugs. I bought one for the NEMA 14-30 outlet in my garage. store.clippercreek.com/level2/level2-20-to-32?page=1 (Note: the chargers that plug into a 240 V outlet will have a plug diagram. You can match it to the one you have).
Owned this hybrid for the past month, an absolutely work of art, easily drive 95% of our city commute with electric only.
@Mathieu Bouvier you still love the mini van? I am considering getting one soon
Update
How has it held up Matt?
Alex, one of the best things you do in your reviews is when a new concept is introduced (i.e. MPGe) you always do a quick step-back and review moment where you clarify the concept being described. I love that.
Riyad Kalla mii
i would buy one just to use as a panel van. 30mpg plus 30 miles electric range can save my business tons in operating cost and total cost of ownership. being able to hold 7 people means payload should be good enough for my equipment
Jonathan Dittmar won't be long before ups ,FedEx and the usps have these in a panel van plug in configuration.
ttiwehde yeah it amazing this is more fuel efficient then many midsize sedans.
That's a great concept. Those trucks could fit a massive battery array along the entire bottom floor pan. Weight at the bottom and close to the ground will create good balance for the truck as well. Could maybe get a 350-400 mile range conservatively.
That's if this thing doesn't break down in 5 years.
I own one of these Pacifica hybrids and my family loves it. My wife and i have five kids so this van meets our needs and van is a joy to drive. The fuel savings are incredible! Chrysler did a great job designing this vehicle.
Any issues? I've read about some uconnect problems, engine run problems (where the engine runs in cold weather mode even when it's not too cold), and some power loss problems.
How reliable has it been?
Do u still own it? Any reliability issues?
Take home message. Need a three-row? Don't get an SUV, get a minivan. Need a minivan? get the Pacifica Hybrid.
it's like Chrysler is the only car company that cares about this segment anymore. well done
Killacamfoo O.G. Agreed. Finally this is better than a stupid Honda or Toyota minivan.
Skyhawk1987Turbo Stupid Honda or Toyota minivan? What the hell does that mean? Without them, Chrysler would still be trying to sell the public T&C junk.
The new Odyssey is a nice minivan as well & sells better here in Toronto than the Caravan or Town & Country. The Sienna however is just getting old, but the minivan market is so small I don't blame Toyota for not refreshing it.
Would be nice to see a Sienna Hybrid compete against this in the future.
That's because (mini-)vans became boring and old-fashioned these days, where as SUVs are the new trendy vans.
why do people keep repeating the same old nonsense? what's the point of accusing a sensible family hauler for being 'boring' and 'old fashioned'? there's nothing wrong with a practical and restrained design. how 'interesting' does a car needs to be anyway? are the lexus nx/rx designs that look like props from 1980s alien B-movies 'interesting' enough?
Probably one of best rewievs I have witnessed ever. Gj
this is the best review I've seen ever. great detailed info and the way you explain things is really easy to understand
I never tend to leave comments but this i got to say! Your reviews are by far the best reviews on youtube.... PERIOD!!! Congratulations!!! we bought our Pacifica Hybrid last month thanks to this reviews!!! THANKS!!
This is one of the best and most thorough car review videos I've come across. I had to comment to say thanks for the great review.
No HID headlights? No memory driver's seat? NO HEATED SECOND ROW? Argh, that sucks. Halogens are dangerously dim, memory seats are very useful for multiple drivers (which a vehicle like this will likely have), and heated seats are much more important in electric vehicles, as using the cabin heater significantly reduces the range. It makes no sense that the standard Pacifica would have a feature that would have been more useful in the hybrid! It would be nice to have an EV or hybrid that adds or keeps all features instead of taking them away.
By the way, your reviews are some of my favorite ones of any channel. I appreciate your attention to detail. Keep it up!
I wasn't watching car review videos before, but now I do because this superb channel has high-quality consistent well-edited format and a pleasant fluent commentator. So, thanks.
As usual great review! I love how he gives you the numbers so you can calculate if it's worth getting an the comparisons.
For me, this car, if you need a great 7 passenger car with storage and do at least 1 road trip every 2 months or more and do allot of traveling with more than 2 people, is totally worth purchasing. Missing some features sucks but I could probably do without it. The stow and go is the biggest "aww man come on" part of not being able to use. Also, I would mention that there isn't enough data on long term ownership cost of a hybrid power train from Chrysler (it is a Chrysler so reliability may be meh). Repairs on a hybrid might be more costly than for a regular has engine.
If you don't fit into the family of three or more, do multiple trips with 3 or more, weekend warrior type, road trip type, this isn't for you.
The regular minivan to me isn't worth a purchase unless your use rate is even higher than the use cases for the hybrid. Add in you are a Uber driver or something and maybe... The regular minivan would be a lease if you know you will need it at least 2 weekends a month, or a rental because you use this style of car once every 2 months on average and the occasional road trip.
I’ve watched a number of your reviews, and I find them to be the most through and in-depth vehicle reviews on the net! Thank you so much for all the work that you do in making this presentation!!! ☮️🖖🏽
Impressive review. Really appreciate the list of deletions between the hybrid and standard Pacifica and the explanation on their MPGe. Chrysler hit a home run with this!
Please please make em available in right hand drive!! Fantastic achievement Chrysler...great well balanced and informative review Alex.
My very first minivan!! Awesome job Alex.
This is the most thorough review I've seen. I've already decided to buy one but this was still very helpful (It's April 2018 and I'm waiting to see what the 2019 models have; hopefully LED headlamps). But although your reviews do an excellent job of balancing the benefits and shortcomings, there is one thing you failed to consider.
Every review I've read or watched sees the lack of stow-and-gp 2nd row seats as a detriment. While this may be true for families with varying needs, minivans aren't just for families. I'm single and rarely, if ever, expect to use the 2nd or 3rd row of seats. I'm getting this car (in preference to other PHEVs) for it's cargo capacity. The first thing I intend to do is pull out the 2nd row and collapse the 3rd row. It's unlikely that I will ever put them back.
I wish I could remove the 3rd row too. Not only does removing them open up even more cargo space but it lowers the weight of the car. Those two 2nd row seats cost 130 lbs. So the second thing I intend to do is get out my tools and see what's involved in getting rid of the 3rd row.
Best review I have ever seen. I had a lot of questions and you answered them all! Saved me many hours calling/surfing for answers, Thanks.
I really like this PHEV minivan idea..But I am more consider about Chrysler's over all quality.
you really know how to explain all the different aspects about this minivan compared to others. well done.
Most detailed and knowledgeable review online so far.
Благодарю за осмотр автомобиля. У Вас очень хорошие обзоры с таблицами, с цыфрами.
Great explanation of DTE calculation
Alex, you are amazing. Thanks so much for doing all these reviews. Your knowledge is vast and the comparisons you make are outstanding. Keep up the great work!
This is the best review video I've seen I'm going to buy this van seriously.
Very well done review! I love the fact that you really research the vehicle cles you review and provide so many details that aren't readily available.
when i saw the Yeti, i knew I could trust your reviews even more.
Can you use this hybrid to keep the cabin cool/warm while camping in it, like you can in the Toyota hybrids? In other words; will it start itself up to charge the battery if you're sleeping in it, and you run the AC/heater?
If the answer is yes - can you also lock the vehicle doors while you've got it set that way?
Your videos are so informative, it feels like I am watching a online course offered by a car dealerships. LOL
Mobin Mahmoudi But with integrity.
Alex: Great Review! I sat in this vehicle at the Detroit/North American Auto Show and was really impressed....except for the front seats which I personally found exceptionally uncomfortable. I am thin, 6'4" and thought they were flat, firm and without sufficient bolstering. (Normally I agree with your seat comfort assessment...)
"Chrysler has recalled roughly 1,700 of the Pacifica Hybrids built and sold to date. The issue is related to a potentially faulty diode in an electronics module, which can stop functioning altogether, leading to a powertrain shutdown."
Nice review. This is the ultimate family car, if your self image isn't fragile.
Love it. Beautiful styling, powerful, specious, efficient. Crazy it's made by FCA, who makes things like the Challenger Demon and told people to not buy the Fiat 500e. First Hybrid/Plug-In Hybrid minivan in the US, if not the world. The only thing I would consider if I needed one, besides the Tesla Model X, if could afford.
Chrysler... a company whose cars such as the Town and Country have been plagued with electrical and engine issues for the past 6 years. Not a company I'd jump into for a full hybrid atm with triple the electrical potential problems over their non hybrids.. Been 6 months and 3k out of my own pocket and Chrysler hasn't even figured out whats wrong with my 14 Chrysler Town and Country. Good luck with this car. Hopefully they fixed the issues with their new version of the fail Pentastar V6. Chrysler hidden issues with these motors is no secret. An internet search is all it takes.
nice and detailed review as always. can you please provide some information on the recent issues of van stops while running and Chrysler is recalling them for fix. how serious the issue is and how it is affecting potential buyers.
Best and most comprehensive review so far, but I don't get no spare tire, isn't that illegal
Excellent review. I wish you would spend a little more time on reliability/dependability.
Read the recent jdpower report. Pacifica ranks highest in its class! www.jdpower.com/cars/articles/jd-power-studies/2017-us-initial-quality-study-results
CMCNestT he normally only has a vehicle for a week. How is he supposed to talk about dependability ?? If he did, it would just be hearsay.
Hopefully by the 2018 model, FCA will add the things missing compared to the gas Pacifica. That's when I'll buy one. Awesome car and review!
Apart for being an " Chrysler" , the sexiest mini van eve built IMO... Honda Odyssey looks like a funeral car, Toyota Sienna just plain...
This guys knows more about this car than the people who sale them for a living.
Like most Chrysler vehicles, who knows how (un-) reliable this will be but it's a damn nice car.
Jdpower might have an idea. www.jdpower.com/cars/articles/jd-power-studies/2017-us-initial-quality-study-results
At the end I realize I am watching a review that is three years old. Well, still fairly current.
A visit to the Chrysler Pacifica owner forums reveals owners complaints of serious problems w/ Pacifica PHEV's. They stop running, get towed to the dealers where they sit for days, awaiting parts/repairs. Some owners mentioned the problem reoccurring, after they were "fixed".
Too bad FCA has such a broad, dismal, frequency of failure track record.
This is a soccer mom/dad van. Most owners who are having no problems are unlikely to be visiting car specific forums. People who have problems tend to complain, hence what you see on that forum.
No glovebox liighting? I understand they have to save money. But what is that? How much does that cost? 1 dollar?
ast5515 I own a Pacifica and it does have a glovebox light.
with the 3rd row fold and the 2nd row remove can you fit 4x8 plywood sheet in the back?
Yes
I want to buy this minivan but that reliability though I am not sure if it will last.
Not providing glovebox lighting is like saying: VI AR THE GODS OF AUTOMATION. VI GIVE YOU HYBRID. VI DONT GIVE YOU ALL SO YOU DONT GET OVERCONFIDENT. Anyway, good review as always - but weird Chrysler would miss out on some features.
Hi Alex, just wondering if you had any information on the expected lifetime of the battery. While I see the battery warranty is relatively easy to find... I can't find any information on what that battery warranty means. IE 10yrs / 160,000 k (in canada) sounds great... Except I don't find any fine print that states what 'defective' looks like. IE is 70% of range in 10 years considered 'OK'? Thanks!
Is the low gear mode limited to a maximum speed? On long trips, where you might not be able to charge the battery from the grid during the night, you might want use the low gear to maintain an intermediate level of charge on the battery.
Why so much features are removed from the Pacifica hybrid over the regular Pacifica is odd. You think the Hybrid would be the halo model in the lineup, but even HID are missing?
Still the fact a PHEV minivan exist is great. Problem is most families still are so sold on SUVs that I think a PHEV Durango would have sold better.
I suspect that those features that are not allowed with this hybrid are deleted only for the weight savings.
David Wolf but features such as home link transmitter and memory seats? Those are just lightweight electronics. Even no glovebox lighting? It makes no sense.
Individually, yes, I agree. My point is based on theory, not absolute certainty.
Only a 18 speaker audio system instead of the 20? Horrors! No power folding, auto dimming mirrors? Like a caveman had to put up with...
@wiibaron Oh please considering you're paying ~$50k for what is clearly not an economy vehicle, I don't think that is too much to ask. Don't have to be all stuck up about it.
Could you do a review on the pros and cons of a fix-a-flat vs spare tire?
Thanks for the review, really great year for plug in hybrids.. Hopefully within the next few years everyone will be looked at funny for not driving the plug in hybrid version of their desired car.
Plug in...what costs are involved to accommodate the electric line in your garage for the plug in? Also, what 'risks' are involved when say, traveling cross-country to finding recharging plug in stations?
I paid $500 for a 240 V charger and another $500 for an electrician to install the wiring. This was 5 years ago and I believe the costs have come down since. I also had a 200 amp panel already. If you need an additional panel, the costs will be higher. You could charge with a 120 V plug but it would take a good deal longer.
As for cross-country, since this thing runs on gas when the battery is drained, it's not a problem (assuming you can find a gas station).
Hey Alex, have you heard any update on the reasons why this vehicle has been SO delayed in its release? We ordered one back in December and are still waiting!! I've seen recap notices about faulty diods and only have a temp fix for now... we would still love to get this car, but I seriously question Chrysler's quality with the severity of this problem/ delay...
I did not see this here (I may have overlooked it), but I've read that when the Pacifica Hybrid goes over 75 mph in EV mode, the engine will turn on, correct? If so, have you (or any other Pacifica Hybrid owners out there) noticed if it will continue mostly using the battery until depleted or will it work effectively like the "hold mode" in other PHEVs?
As usually an excellent review, thx Alex. No auto dimming mirrors seem to be a bit strange, they must have consume too much electricity ;).
FCA bring that to Europe, whatever badge to stick to that!
Alex do you know if the rear hatch can be programmed to open partially so that it could be opened in a garage for example?
Great review as always! The reliability (esp. the battery) is a question mark though.
Great Review Alex. I am surprised at the MPG as well. Dang.
Hey Alex which car would u suggest for me this or a XC60 phev
Those 0-60 times for the regular Pacifica (and the Toyota Sienna FWD which would be faster than the AWD model) are better than a 1960 Chrysler 300F, which probably got about half the mpg of those non-hybrids while polluting about a thousand times more. Ah, the Good Olde Days!
We need to buy a new Minivan.
Hesitating between 3:
1) Kia Sedona
2) Chrysler Pacifica (maybe the Hybrid)
3) Honda Odyssey
All of them would be the new version (2019 or 2020 if they come out in August), and the top of the line ones.
Which one would you recommend and why?
Would you buy this thing knowing terrible reliability from Chrysler ? 10K is great incentive but would you risk it?
Can we combine alternator motor and high power capacitor to eliminate battery pack
are you reviewing the 2018 odyssey soon? thanks and keep up with the great reviews!!!
It is ugly. Review done.
Also, it would be nice if Chrysler embed hold-down tie-off points inside the cabin for hauling cargo. Also: a peanut light in the glove box can hardly cost much.
please can you also review the 2018 Honda Odyssey
Great video Alex.. Always a joy watching them! Do you know if you'll be getting a look at the Genesis G80 Sport any time soon?
We should have one in a few weeks.
I currently have a minivan converted to a camper van. It seems a hybrid would make sense in that application, if the high voltage,14 kwh main battery maintains the charge on the 12 v low voltage battery, where low voltage, low power devices are drawing power. In my camper the maximum energy I ever use to power my devices is 0.4 kwh, That seems inconsequential when you have a 14 kwh battery on board that has a lot of charge left on it.
Should I go through the trouble and trade in my leased 17' CX-9 for this hybrid? I can use the fuel savings. Currently I get about 570 km range on 65 litre if I drive really sober. But around 500 km if I drive rough. If I can reach 800-850 km range with this pacifica, would my trouble be worth it? I know I might have to pay some fees. But at the time I needed the car, Pacifica wasn't available in my area for a few more months.
Can't give you a definite Yes or No, as it really depends on your needs and usual driving routes, as well as your actual location and local/government incentives.
Do you drive locally often? Do you really need a large vehicle? How high (or low) are your local utility rates, and do they provide different rates for different times?
Right now, it's probably very difficult or impossible to order a 2017, which will leave you with more time to go through the lease and reduce/remove the trade-in penalty.
If you do need more than 5 seats, that one, to me, is a clear winner. But again, Your Mileage May Vary!
Alex, what's your opinion on a mini van for a retired couple? I love the looks and the space to carry grand kids or friends or just have a smooth riding vehicle. My wife says "No I'm done with my mini van days" She had a Ford Aerostar.
Still no apple CarPlay? The Kia Sedona has had that for 2 model years already. Also a lot of features missing for no obvious reason from the top of the line Pacifica
I'm not sure how you can justify installing a less recent version of Uconnect. Android Auto and CarPlay are musts for many. Why offer an older version?
Excellent and helpful review. Thank you!
The loss of some of those premium features is disappointing but not a deal breaker for me (since I've never had them in a vehicle anyway). But I was really disappointed over the lack of HID headlamps. Every hybrid or plug-in I've ever owned at least had the option for HID's or LEDs. I didn't used to be a fan of LEDs but the LED headlamps in my Volt are fantastic! Would it be easy to order the HID parts separately and install them in the Pacifica Hybrid, or are we looking at needing to completely replace the headlamp assembly to do that?
To edit: Chrysler’s first “in-hours” hybrid design (above); and at 31:10, Active “nose” cancellation - would that work on my mother-in-law? Nice job overall, though. The last one went so fast I could only understand about half of what you said. Good to see you tapped the brakes a bit in this one.
Awesome i’m a big fan of minivans !
Another great review, Alex! Your review of the 2014 Durango is what drove us to purchase one. Now we're looking at a Pacifica.
Would you purchase this or the non-hybrid version? I really wish this had some of the luxuries of the non-hybrid. Why didn't they put in memory seats at least?
Thanks for the detailed review. I wish a few of the unavailable items were available as options (homelink, memory seat, HID, dimming mirrors, in that order), and I'm bummed by your "B-" handling rating (we currently have a 2006 Sienna that I'd give an A for handling w/ Goodyear Assurance ConforTred Touring H-rated tires). Maybe by 2018 some of that will change. I've been burned by buying a first-model-year vehicle before, so I'd wait at least a year before getting one of these, but it does look nice. Q: I can lay 4x8' sheets of plywood flat on the floor in my 06 Sienna. Can that be done in the Pacifica? Not that it's a big deal, but it has come in handy once.
I am a proud owner of this vehicle and our kids would be disappointed that you didn't cover the dual touchscreens in the second row. it allows for Blu-ray or DVD playback on each screen as well as built in games that pass the time away.
Maybe a followup video on Infotainment options for cars?
We actually have a full video that's devoted just to that system in the Pacifica on our channel :)
@@AAutoBuyersGuide When will you do a full review of the 2018 Pacifica Hybrid? Very much enjoy your reviews!
Another great job. Thanks Alex.
Mr. Alex!
I will like to begin by saying that I love all your videos they are very informative. based on those videos I have decided to buy a Chrysler Pacifica hybrid although I have heard many rumors that it is suffering of a numerous defects with the infotainment system and the power Distribution. I would love to know if you can come in on those and if you will recommend this vehicle?
I thank you in advance for taking the time of reading this comment keep up the good work!
does it come with the energy charger thingy??
melissa yes all plug in come with a cord that you can use in any outlet
Excellent review. Very detailed
So when are you going to review the 2018 model?
Excellent review and comparison. I have been waiting the Pacifica to come in stock in San Diego. For the tow package, do you know if we can add it after market ?
I'm not why you quit picking in the Volt fuel economy calculations. The Volt gives both readings, one that counts electricity as free and one that factors in the electrical energy content. If you have both vehicles, you can absolutely compare them apples to apples.
I am bit confused..Should I buy Mazda CX9 or should I go for Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. My annual mileage doesn't go more than 10000 miles
The CX-9 is a better drive especially with AWD, but the Pacifica Hybrid if you charge every opportunity & a home charger, would be significantly cheaper to run. Also the Pacifica would sit 7 people much more comfortably than any SUV in existence.
Depends on what you'll use it for. If you're looking for AWD and the "fun factor," then the CX 9 is your best bet. If you're looking to fit 7 people and their cargo comfortably and avoid gas for your commutes, then the Pacifica is your best bet.
On a personal note, I like Mazda's. I used to own a Mazda 3 and it is the most fun I've had in a car, especially on windy, hilly terrain. I expect the CX 9 would be fun too. I don't have much experience driving Chrysler's and their reputation for reliability (or lack thereof) give me pause.
Alex, can this be charged with a regular home 240 V outlet, or do you need to have a special outlet installed in your home by an electrician, as a Chrysler person in another video suggested?
If you have a true and proper 240 V outlet (like the type your dryer uses) then you can buy a charger from Clipper Creek. They sell various charger harnesses (known as EVSE) that can plug into different types of 240 V plugs. I bought one for the NEMA 14-30 outlet in my garage.
store.clippercreek.com/level2/level2-20-to-32?page=1 (Note: the chargers that plug into a 240 V outlet will have a plug diagram. You can match it to the one you have).
where are the runner up vehicles and value pick and stuff
thank you for the detailed review!
This helped me a great deal, thanks.
If there is no home link how does one open the garage door? Don't tell me I have to hang my old remote on the shade again.😒
How reliable are these?
Fantastic review. Thanks.
Very Good 👍 Excellent Review
Hope to see 2018 Honda odyssey review.
1300!!!!!! Hot damn
Did I hear that right, 1300 miles on a full tank and charged?