2026 Chrysler Pacifica Review — Design, Interior, Performance, and Price, If you thought minivans were just “family cars,” the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica is here to challenge that notion. With refreshed design, better tech, and powertrain upgrades (including a plug-in hybrid), this model brings muscle and sophistication to a segment that’s often overlooked. Let’s dive into what makes the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica Review — Design, Interior, Performance, and Price worth your time.
Exterior
On the outside, the 2026 Pacifica shows a subtle but confident evolution. The front grille gets a sharper, more refined face, and the lighting signatures are cleaner with more integrated LED elements. Lines flow more smoothly over the body, giving it a modern vibe without losing that minivan identity. Available all-wheel drive (AWD) gives the design functional flair—higher ride height, sculpted wheel arches, and tougher styling cues help it look ready for more than just school runs.
The 100th Anniversary Edition adds unique touches—accent colors, special badging, and exclusive wheels—to make your Pacifica stand out in a crowded parking lot.
Interior, Tech & Comfort
Step inside, and the Pacifica aims to impress beyond expectations. Seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on configuration, is standard. The second and third rows fold more gracefully, and Stow ’n Go flexibility remains a highlight in many trims. In Hybrid variants, though, the layout shifts a bit—second-row captain’s chairs are often removable to make room for battery placement.
Dash and control layout are cleaner, more intuitive. The 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen comes standard, and now includes over-the-air software update capability and Amazon Alexa integration. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are built in. Higher trims offer premium audio systems, extra USB-C ports, rear entertainment packages with dual displays, and ambient lighting options that help the cabin feel upscale and alive.
Despite being a larger vehicle, the Pacifica’s sound insulation is improved compared to earlier versions. Road noise is muted, and engine sound is well managed—especially in hybrid mode where electric drive takes over.
Powertrain & Performance
For 2026, the Pacifica continues with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 in non-hybrid trims, delivering 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic. It can be configured in front-wheel-drive or AWD, and has a maximum towing capacity of 3,600 lbs.
In performance testing, a front-drive version hits 0–60 mph in about 7.3 seconds, while AWD variants lag a bit due to drivetrain losses. The gas version’s fuel economy is rated around 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway in FWD form, with a slight drop for AWD models.
The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version blends that V6 engine with twin electric motors and a battery pack to deliver 33 miles of electric-only range before the gas engine kicks in. Combined output in PHEV mode is lower (around 260 hp in many test setups), and 0–60 runs in hybrid spec are in the 7.5-second range. The PHEV is not rated for heavy towing, so it’s best suited for daily driving and family errands.
Here’s a specification snapshot:
| Specification | Value / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Engine (gas) | 3.6L V6 |
| Horsepower | 287 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Drive Options | FWD, AWD |
| 0–60 mph | ~7.3 s (FWD) |
| Fuel Economy (gas FWD) | ~19 / 28 mpg |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 3,600 lbs |
| EV Range (PHEV) | ~33 miles |
| Combined Hybrid Output | ~260 hp |
| Seating | 7–8 (varies) |
Price & Trim Options
The 2026 Pacifica starts in the mid-$40,000s range. Base models (Select) shine by offering solid value, while Limited and Pinnacle trims layer in luxury touches—better leather, upgraded sound, extra safety tech, and aesthetic upgrades. The 100th Anniversary Edition offers unique styling and feature bundles (exterior accents, special badging, premium interior touches) and begins at a premium above base trims.
One key shift for 2026 is that more of the tech and driver-assist features that used to be optional are now standard or more easily added. That helps tighten the value gap between base and high trims, making the Pacifica more compelling across its lineup.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Pacifica doubles down on safety features. Standard across many trims: automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors. In higher trims or packages, you can get 360-degree camera systems, front park assist, and more advanced versions of those driver-assist aids.
The 100th Anniversary Edition ships with a Safety Sphere package by default, which includes ParkSense front park assist with stop, 360° surround view camera, and other enhancements.
Structurally, the Pacifica uses modern high-strength steel and well-engineered crash zones. Airbags, stability control, and ABS/traction systems round out a safety toolkit that aims to give peace of mind, especially for families.
What Makes the 2026 Pacifica Stand Out
In a world pushing crossovers and SUVs, the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica remains a standout by doing what minivans do best — but smarter. With available plug-in hybrid operation, AWD option, revamped design and upgraded tech, it’s one of few minivans that keeps evolving. If you need true family flexibility (cargo, people, adaptability), Pacifica still leads.
Also notable: Chrysler is developing a fully electric Pacifica version, expected to follow soon after this revamped generation. That means the PHEV Pacifica may be a bridge to an all-electric future.