As a car manufacturer, Chrysler has always been a trendsetter whether it is by design or concept.  In the 80’s, they were the first to introduce the multi-purpose vehicle or MPV with the Dodge Caravan.  In the 90’s, they brought back retro back to the mainstream with the PT Cruiser and the Plymouth Prowler.  Heck, they even pioneered the idea of building a regular run American super car in the Dodge Viper.  And just two years ago, the uniquely styled, rear-wheel drive 300C brought hip back to Detroit.  With such an impressive resume, where does the Pacifica fit in?  It was the first true “crossover vehicle”.

Though there are those who’d rather prefer driving an MPV, there are some who consider SUVs or sport utility vehicles as the new family car.  The crossover vehicle seeks to combine the best qualities of both.  However, it seems that traditional SUV sales are beginning to decline.  Along with a maturing MPV market, it seems that the crossover is the new segment bright spot, selling in the tune of 3 million vehicles annually.  And who was it again who beat everyone around the bush? 

Of course, being the first doesn’t always mean being the best.  So, it’s rather fortunate for Chrysler that they managed to get everything right with the Pacifica the first time around.  Designed before the 300C, the Pacifica looks closer to the Crossfire sports car than the full-sized sedan.  For instance, the hood contains vertical slats, said to emulate a yacht’s power board.  And then there is the numerous chrome bits sprinkled around.  Despite the sweeping roof design and several hard creases, there’s no way you can deny that the Pacifica’s a huge vehicle.  That said, it’s a handsomely done huge vehicle.

The Pacifica’s huge exterior should equally echo a huge interior, and it does.  The accommodations are generally kingly with more than luxurious leg, shoulder and head room.  Perhaps the only weakness is the third row, where despite sliding the second row completely forward, produces merely adequate knee room.  Equally odd with the Pacifica is its 2+2+2 seating configuration.  It sort of makes sense since some owners would prefer to make the Pacifica into a pseudo-luxury car, but for the typical family it lessens this car’s flexibility by a lot.  Equally limiting is the luggage space with all the seats up.  The weekly grocery shopping can be quite difficult especially if the entire family decides to go.  However, with the third row folded flat, it can produce a wide grin on hardcore furniture lovers.

It may not look huge in photos, but let me tell you this: the Pacifica is huge! Weak front visibility make it a pain to park. Bring out the chauffer.

Interior treatment is generally pleasant with pseudo-Merc touches here and there. We'd opt to remove the '80s style green electro-luminescent stuff here though.