Minivans are not the sales juggernauts of family transport that they used to be, but Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) still believes in the segment. That’s why the stylish Chrysler Pacifica is the only minivan to bring electrification to the class with an optional plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain.
The Pacifica Hybrid gets some new kit and optional extras for 2019, its third year on the market.
A 3.6L V6 engine works with an electric motor for a total of 260 hp, which goes through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). With a fully charged battery, Chrysler says the Pacifica Hybrid will cover 53 km before the gas engine kicks in to help out. The engine will also come on line if the driver asks for maximum acceleration, which the electric motor can’t carry out on its own. Cold weather also fires up the engine even if the battery is charged.
It’s curious to us that Chrysler put its well-done hybrid system in a van instead of a trendier and, presumably, more profitable upscale crossover. That would have given this domestic brand an edge over the Lexus RX-L, which is available as a hybrid, but doesn’t plug in to charge.
Notably, there is no hybrid version of the aging Dodge Grand Caravan, FCA’s other minivan.
The Pacifica Hybrid is offered in Touring Plus, Touring L and Limited trim levels.
New this year is an S appearance package that brings black 18-inch wheels, gloss black exterior accents and an all-black interior.
Hybrid Touring L trim gets a heated steering wheel and auto-dimming mirror as standard and can be had with a premium audio group.
Hybrid Touring Plus adds an auto-dimming mirror, and can be optioned with a cold weather group and a new 17-inch wheel design.
Finally, Hybrid Limited gets a new wheel design, memory settings for the seats, mirrors and audio system and power-folding mirrors.
The rest of the Pacifica Hybrid’s standard and optional features carry over from 2018. Have a look at that buyer’s guide entry for details.
FCA’s fuel consumption estimates for the Pacifica Hybrid are 2.8 Le/100 km when running on electricity, and 7.3/7.2 in gas-electric hybrid mode.
