The Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid, specifically the facelifted 2021 model equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 264 horsepower, represents a significant entry in the plug-in hybrid minivan segment. Introduced as part of the Pacifica’s mid-cycle refresh, this variant aimed to combine the practicality of a minivan with the fuel efficiency and reduced emissions of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Production began in 2021, building upon the foundation of the first-generation Pacifica (introduced in 2017) which replaced the Town & Country. This model year saw updates to both the exterior styling and interior technology, further solidifying the Pacifica’s position as a competitive family vehicle in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Pacifica (minivan) |
| Generation | Pacifica (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 Pentastar V6 (264 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid EVT |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 2.9 l/100 km (81.1 US mpg, 97.4 UK mpg, 34.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 116.1 Hp/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 16 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 360 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| Electric motor power (1) | 86 Hp |
| Electric motor location (1) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor power (2) | 116 Hp |
| Electric motor location (2) | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 264 Hp |
| 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 | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.7 l (14.48 US qt | 12.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2273 kg (5011.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2858 kg (6300.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 915 l (32.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3979 l (140.52 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62.5 l (16.51 US gal | 13.75 UK gal) |
| Length | 5189 mm (204.29 in.) |
| Width | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3089 mm (121.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1734 mm (68.27 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) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 330×12 mm |
| Gearbox | automatic transmission eFlite EVT |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2021 Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid lies the well-regarded 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine, a staple in Chrysler vehicles for years, is known for its durability and smooth power delivery. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a variable valve timing (CVVT) system to optimize efficiency and performance. The engine produces 264 horsepower when combined with the electric motors. The eFlite EVT (Electrically Variable Transmission) is a key component, integrating two electric motors with the internal combustion engine. This allows for seamless transitions between electric, hybrid, and gasoline power modes. The 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, positioned under the floor, provides an all-electric range of approximately 32 miles (51 km), sufficient for many daily commutes. The battery can be charged via a Level 2 charger (240V) in approximately two hours, or a standard 120V outlet in around 12 hours.
Driving Characteristics
The Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid offers a refined driving experience. In electric mode, the vehicle is nearly silent, providing smooth and instant torque. The transition between electric and gasoline power is generally seamless, although some drivers may notice a slight shift in engine noise and vibration. The eFlite EVT transmission is tuned for efficiency rather than sporty acceleration, but provides adequate power for merging and highway passing. Compared to the standard gasoline-powered Pacifica, the plug-in hybrid variant offers improved fuel economy, especially in city driving. The added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling, but the suspension is well-tuned to provide a comfortable ride. Compared to higher-trim Pacifica models with more powerful engines, this variant prioritizes efficiency and affordability over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2021 Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid was available in several trim levels, including Touring, Limited, and Pinnacle. Even the base Touring trim came well-equipped with features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, premium audio systems, and advanced driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Pacifica utilizes an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics for a vehicle of its size. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. The plug-in hybrid powertrain was seen as a significant advantage, allowing drivers to reduce their reliance on gasoline and lower their carbon footprint. Compared to other plug-in hybrid minivans, such as the Toyota Sienna Hybrid, the Pacifica offered a more luxurious interior and a more refined driving experience. However, some critics noted that the Pacifica’s price was higher than some of its competitors.
Legacy
The Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid has established itself as a leading plug-in hybrid minivan in the North American market. The powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, reflecting the demand for fuel-efficient and family-friendly vehicles. The Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid continues to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and environmentally conscious minivan.
