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2004 Chrysler Pacifica
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Date:
27 February 2004
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Miles: 6,000
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Why do we do long term tests? Well, to check for durability
and find out if our initial road test impressions are valid. Normally,
over a year, we are always slightly disappointed.
But so far, that's not the case for the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
Sports Tourer. As Chrysler's latest segment buster, this crossover, part
SUV, part minivan, part luxury sedan, got a good if not rave review from
us during initial testing. Now, however, after 2 months and 6,000 miles,
the brilliance of this design is sinking in.
The Pacifica has a wider stance and a more substantial look than
most vans. That is, like an SUV. But, it also looks rich and even
glamorous, like a luxury sedan. The classy interior is the best yet from
Chrysler. The navigation screen is even inside the gauges so you can see
it without looking off to the side. Hurrah!
But, on top of that, the Pacifica drives so nicely. Comfortable on
long trips but also, thanks to a lot of Mercedes suspension hardware, it
handles highway surprises with ease. Only a bit more mid-range power for
passing is needed. Seats are firm, but leave you well rested. And, the
6-passenger capacity, three rows of two seats, makes you feel like
you're in a private jet.
Our only glitch has been a one time erratic gas gauge. Fuel economy
is good at 18.8 miles per gallon, but 24 is more typical on the
interstate. Our Pacifica's all-wheel drive system has proven an easy
match for our Mid-Atlantic snows to date.
So, while it's still too early to say we underestimated the
desirability of the Pacifica, it's starting to look that way. In a few
more months and miles we'll know for sure.
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Date:
28 May 2004
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Miles: 9,300
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After being a slow starter in the market, we're seeing more and more
2004 Chrysler Pacifica sports tourers on the road, and for good reason.
This great looking, elegantly appointed blend of luxury SUV, sedan, and
minivan is a terrifically comfortable highway cruiser. Make that
all-weather highway cruiser, since it's available with the added
security of all-wheel drive. We appreciate features like individual
6-passenger seating, adjustable foot pedals, and a navigation screen
clearly visible inside the speedometer.
On the other hand, acceleration from the 250 horsepower 3.5-liter
V-6 is only adequate, as is fuel economy of 18.6 miles per gallon after
9,300 miles.
So, like the public at large, we're getting to know the Chrysler
Pacifica much better.
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Date:
15 October 2004
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Miles: 23,000
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People-movers come and go here at MotorWeek, but the stay of
this 2004 Chrysler Pacifica Sports Tourer has been most memorable. More
than a fancy minivan, this crossover combines three rows of 6-passenger
first class seating and an elegant interior, with a long and fairly tall
cargo bay and SUV attributes like a tall hoodline and automatic
all-wheel drive. With a lot of Mercedes influence in the suspension,
it's as comfortable to drive on long trips as a pure luxury car, yet can
be quickly transformed into a weekend workhorse.
Things we love about the Pacifica include the low step in height,
the very comfortable seats, and the navigation system screen inside the
steering wheel.
Improvements could be made to the 3.5-liter 250-horsepower V-6. It
runs out of steam early and makes too much racket for a luxury vehicle.
And, while side curtain airbags are available, stability control is not.
Both should be standard.
But something that is standard, on our example anyway, is quality
and reliability. No breakage in 9 months and nearly 23,000 miles. And
fuel economy is still going up. 18.9 miles per gallon so far. Overall we
continue to be impressed with the Chrysler Pacifica. A flexible people
mover with panache.
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Date:
12 November 2004
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Miles: 25,000
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Need to move an extended family? One of our favorite doers is the
2004 Chrysler Pacifica Sports Tourer. This crossover combines three
rows of 6-passenger first class seating with a long cargo bay, an
SUV-like hood-line, and automatic all-wheel drive. We've had no major
problems since our last report. Actually, in 10 months and 25,000 miles,
only one electric glitch has marred the total experience. Pacifica is a
great ride for long trips, and having the navigation screen inside the
speedometer makes getting lost almost entertaining.
Power from the 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 is adequate, but fuel
economy, at 18.7 miles per gallon of regular, means Pacifica is not well
suited as a commuter vehicle. Still, the Chrysler Pacifica is a
flexible and elegant people mover.
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