The Chrysler Pacifica, specifically the facelifted model introduced in 2021 with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of Chrysler’s minivan offering. Launched as a replacement for the Town & Country, the Pacifica aimed to modernize the minivan segment with a focus on family-friendly features, technology, and a more refined driving experience. The 2021 facelift brought styling updates and further refinement to the already well-received platform. This particular configuration, the 3.6L V6 automatic, served as a mainstay in the Pacifica lineup, offering a balance of power and efficiency for a broad range of buyers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Pacifica (minivan) |
| Generation | Pacifica (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 Pentastar V6 (291 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 141.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 173.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 291 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 355 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 261.83 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Pentastar |
| Engine displacement | 3605 cm3, 219.99 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm, 3.78 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm, 3.27 in. |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l, 4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt |
| Coolant | 12.4 l, 13.1 US qt | 10.91 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2051 kg, 4521.68 lbs |
| Max. weight | 2747 kg, 6056.1 lbs |
| Max load | 696 kg, 1534.42 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 915 l, 32.31 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3979 l, 140.52 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l, 19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1633 kg, 3600.15 lbs |
| Length | 5189 mm, 204.29 in. |
| Width | 2022 mm, 79.61 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2296 mm, 90.39 in. |
| Height | 1777 mm, 69.96 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3089 mm, 121.61 in. |
| Front track | 1735 mm, 68.31 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1735 mm, 68.31 in. |
| Front overhang | 972 mm, 38.27 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1127 mm, 44.37 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 131 mm, 5.16 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m, 39.7 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 330×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17; 235/60 R18; 245/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Pacifica variant is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine, a staple of Chrysler’s lineup for many years, is known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The Pentastar utilizes a 60-degree V-angle, contributing to its smooth operation. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Fuel delivery is handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 291 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 261.83 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission offers a wide gear ratio spread, aiding both fuel economy and acceleration. The 9-speed’s programming is tuned for smooth shifts and responsive performance in typical minivan driving scenarios.
Driving Characteristics
The 291-horsepower Pentastar V6, when coupled with the 9-speed automatic, provides adequate power for everyday driving and even occasional towing. While not a performance-oriented setup, it delivers brisk acceleration, especially considering the Pacifica’s size and weight. The 9-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration when needed. Compared to the optional plug-in hybrid version, this gasoline-only powertrain offers a more linear power delivery. It also avoids the occasional engine drone that can be present in the hybrid during hard acceleration. Compared to earlier Pacifica models with the 3.6L and a 6-speed automatic, the 9-speed provides improved fuel economy and a more refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2021 Pacifica 3.6L Automatic was available in several trim levels, including Touring, Limited, and Pinnacle. The base Touring trim typically included features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trims, such as the Limited, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The Pinnacle trim represented the top of the line, offering even more luxurious features and finishes. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and various driver-assistance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Pacifica utilizes an independent suspension system at all four corners, featuring a McPherson strut setup in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. This suspension design provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion system, offering light and precise steering feel. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The Pacifica is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica, and specifically the 3.6L V6 Automatic variant, received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, averaging around 19-28 mpg depending on driving conditions. Compared to other minivans like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, the Pacifica offered a more stylish design and a more engaging driving experience. However, some critics noted that the Sienna’s standard hybrid powertrain offered superior fuel economy. Reliability reports for the 3.6L Pentastar engine have been mixed, with some owners reporting issues with oil consumption and timing chain wear over the long term.
Legacy
The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica 3.6L V6 Automatic represents a well-rounded and practical minivan option. The Pentastar V6 engine, while not without its potential issues, has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain when properly maintained. In the used car market, these Pacificas offer a good value proposition, providing a spacious and well-equipped vehicle at a reasonable price. The 9-speed automatic transmission, while sometimes criticized for occasional rough shifts in earlier iterations, has been refined over time and generally provides a smooth and efficient driving experience. The Pacifica continues to be a popular choice for families seeking a versatile and comfortable vehicle.
