2017 CHRYSLER PACIFICA LIMITED - FEATURE RICH
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
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Check out this video of the third row stow and go seats!
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We have patiently been awaiting the arrival of Chrysler's award winning Pacifica minivan and upon its arrival we knew it was worth the wait! Our test vehicle, The Limited Edition, included most of the already reported 37 new minivan innovations.
What we had not fully anticipated was the all new, ground up design of the Pacifica. The front profile includes sweeping LED headlamps that flow into an attractive mesh grill with the bold centered Chrysler logo. The side profile reflects large windows, a lower extended chrome strip and 20" aluminum polished wheels for a strikingly elegant appearance. As a side note, the rear side windows included manual pull-up shades which is a nice touch perfect for the warm sunny days of summer.
Generally, we think of the Pacifica as a family 'hauler' and it is certainly very appealing to that segment of the market. However, with its versatile configured three-row seating with Stow 'n Go Seats for the 2nd and 3rd rows, it now offers 140 cubic feet of cargo area with both rows folded down and now absolutely will be a 'must consider' competition for the SUV segment.
A prime example of our new use was when we picked up two adults from the local airport who were returning from an extended trip with their oversized luggage. Their amazement was evident as they watched the power folding of the third row making space for the luggage while they still could enjoy the very comfortable 2nd row captain's chair seats with folding armrests. Needless to say, these weary travelers were quite impressed and thoroughly enjoyed the final leg of their journey home.
The Pacifica is loaded with technology, conveniences and comfort features for both the driver and passengers. Included are 7" touch-screen, navigation, integrated voice command and U-Connect Access.
From an entertainment perspective features were in abundance including Sirius XM Satellite radio with travel link and traffic information; U-Connect Theater rear seat entertainment system with two high-definition 10" touch screens mounted on the back of the front headed seats with folding armrests. The system includes 3-channel wireless headphones, wireless remote control, Blu-Ray DVD player, UBS ports and 115 Volt power outlet. Here are all the makings for a comfortable and well entertained passenger set of any age.
Powering the Pacifica is a 3.6 liter V6 engine pumping out 287 HP and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine is coupled with a 9-speed front-wheel drive automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 22/18/20 MPG (Combined/city/highway). Although not reviewed by us, a hybrid edition is available!
Other notable features included Stow 'n Vac integrated vacuum system, tri-pane panoramic sunroof, hands-free sliding doors and rear lift-gate, LED fog lamps and tail lamps.
Our 200 mile road test took us on the Interstate, country roads and city streets. The ride was pleasantly smooth, road noise was at a minimum and the V6 was perfect for our drive including cruising at 70 MPH on the Interstate. Parking in our city segment was a breeze with Park View rear backup camera and the Park Sense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist which uses ultrasonic sensors to guide the driver into parking spaces.
The Pacifica is equipped with the latest safety features with the likes of the usual array of airbags, 10 in number, and a LATCH Ready child seat anchor system. Also included is Blind Spot and Cross Path Detection, Adaptive Cruse Control with Stop and Hold, and Full Speed Forward-Collision Warning Plus.
Our well equipped Pacifica Limited has a base price of $42,495; options and destination brought the total price to $48,475.
BOTTOM LINE: This is a highly recommended vehicle worthy of a test drive and buying considerations for more than just the minivan market.
What we had not fully anticipated was the all new, ground up design of the Pacifica. The front profile includes sweeping LED headlamps that flow into an attractive mesh grill with the bold centered Chrysler logo. The side profile reflects large windows, a lower extended chrome strip and 20" aluminum polished wheels for a strikingly elegant appearance. As a side note, the rear side windows included manual pull-up shades which is a nice touch perfect for the warm sunny days of summer.
Generally, we think of the Pacifica as a family 'hauler' and it is certainly very appealing to that segment of the market. However, with its versatile configured three-row seating with Stow 'n Go Seats for the 2nd and 3rd rows, it now offers 140 cubic feet of cargo area with both rows folded down and now absolutely will be a 'must consider' competition for the SUV segment.
A prime example of our new use was when we picked up two adults from the local airport who were returning from an extended trip with their oversized luggage. Their amazement was evident as they watched the power folding of the third row making space for the luggage while they still could enjoy the very comfortable 2nd row captain's chair seats with folding armrests. Needless to say, these weary travelers were quite impressed and thoroughly enjoyed the final leg of their journey home.
The Pacifica is loaded with technology, conveniences and comfort features for both the driver and passengers. Included are 7" touch-screen, navigation, integrated voice command and U-Connect Access.
From an entertainment perspective features were in abundance including Sirius XM Satellite radio with travel link and traffic information; U-Connect Theater rear seat entertainment system with two high-definition 10" touch screens mounted on the back of the front headed seats with folding armrests. The system includes 3-channel wireless headphones, wireless remote control, Blu-Ray DVD player, UBS ports and 115 Volt power outlet. Here are all the makings for a comfortable and well entertained passenger set of any age.
Powering the Pacifica is a 3.6 liter V6 engine pumping out 287 HP and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine is coupled with a 9-speed front-wheel drive automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 22/18/20 MPG (Combined/city/highway). Although not reviewed by us, a hybrid edition is available!
Other notable features included Stow 'n Vac integrated vacuum system, tri-pane panoramic sunroof, hands-free sliding doors and rear lift-gate, LED fog lamps and tail lamps.
Our 200 mile road test took us on the Interstate, country roads and city streets. The ride was pleasantly smooth, road noise was at a minimum and the V6 was perfect for our drive including cruising at 70 MPH on the Interstate. Parking in our city segment was a breeze with Park View rear backup camera and the Park Sense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist which uses ultrasonic sensors to guide the driver into parking spaces.
The Pacifica is equipped with the latest safety features with the likes of the usual array of airbags, 10 in number, and a LATCH Ready child seat anchor system. Also included is Blind Spot and Cross Path Detection, Adaptive Cruse Control with Stop and Hold, and Full Speed Forward-Collision Warning Plus.
Our well equipped Pacifica Limited has a base price of $42,495; options and destination brought the total price to $48,475.
BOTTOM LINE: This is a highly recommended vehicle worthy of a test drive and buying considerations for more than just the minivan market.
2017 Chrysler Pacifica
By Jim Jackson
Chrysler’s ‘family room on wheels’ takes a front row seat in the minivan segment with the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. Now everybody can go along for the ride with available eight-passenger seating courtesy of a removable center seat in the second row. Presence of the eighth seat raises the safety latch-installed child seat capacity to five. Family value gets even greater with Pacifica’s Easy Tilt seat that creates an 18-inch aisle with a lever mounted on the outboard second row seats - tilting the back cushion and sliding the seat forward for easy access to and from the third row. The Easy-Tilt second row remains fully functional even with an unoccupied installed child seat in place. Chrysler’s exclusive Stow ‘n Go seat system is standard on all six Pacifica models and provides multiple seat and carrying configurations for a maximum cargo volume of 140.5 cu-ft. behind the front seats.
Opening the rear-side passenger door with grocery bags and a toddler in-hand is now a swipe of a foot away with mid-year availability of a hands-free sliding side doors and liftgate. A wave of a foot under the bottom sill plates or rear bumper opens up the vehicle with the key fob in close proximity of the operator. The door also slides open with a simple press of a small button on the door handle.
Cabin clean-up is made convenient with Pacifica’s available onboard Stow ‘n Vac vacuum system with an accessory hose that reaches all corners of the vehicle interior.
Keeping passengers entertained while on the roll is more enjoyable with optional Uconnect Theater rear seat entertainment and second row 10-inch touchscreen display mated to a premium Harmon Kardon audio system.
Overhead views are provided by a tri-pane panoramic sunroof on the Pacifica Limited model.
Up front, outdoor visibility is increased with the addition of a small corner window at the bottom of the windshield pillars and a 360-degree Surround View camera for a bird’s eye perspective of the vehicle’s perimeter when parking.
Maneuvering mall and on-street parking is made easier with Pacifica’s ParkSense Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist on select models. Adaptive Cruise Control with full stop feature, Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking brings an added measure of safety to the Pacifica people mover.
Power to the people is provided by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that builds 287 horsepower coupled to a smooth shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy becomes the benefactor to the multiple higher gears that yield 18 miles per gallon around town and 28-mpg at Interstate speeds.
Chrysler Pacifica Touring L- Plus offers a premium fascia, power liftgate, three-zone automatic temperature control and upgraded exterior lighting.
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica is priced from $28,595 to $42,495. Our Pacifica Touring L-Plus tester starts at $37,895. Add $995 across the line for freight.
2015 KIA SEDONA SX-L
By Bob Kroupa
At a glance the newly designed attractive Sedona appears to be a combination of the family minivan and a sport utility vehicle. Its front styling, with a lower simulated skid pad and grill, continues to reflect the KIA brand. The side doors are enhanced with a lower spear-like design. The rear profile has some pizzazz with another lower simulated skid pad matching the one under the grill.
The interior has a very user friendly instrument panel with its easy-to-read gauges and conventional control dials. Numerous cup holders and storage bins are offered including dual stacked glove boxes with the lower one insulated to provide cooling for drinks and snacks.
We found the heated front Napa-leather seats with arm rests to be quite comfortable. In addition, the driver's seat had a power-lumbar feature.
The Sedona is a very versatile machine. It includes lower seat anchors and tethers in abundance for child seats. Not only does it provide the ideal family vehicle for those needing child seat hardware but the conversion to youth and adult seating is easy to make. The Sedona is a great family car.
We had an occasion to attend the theater in the Virginia mountains with a total of six adults. The remote controlled sliding rear doors allowed ease of entry into and egress from the Sedona.
The second row with split 'captain' seats had a forward sliding feature that provided our third row passenger with easy entry and plenty of leg room. The captains seats included a fold-out support for your legs resembling an ottoman.
In addition, behind the third row was a 33.9 cu.-ft. of storage for all our baggage. Adding to the Sedona's load carrying profile, the second and third row seats fold flat to provide 142 cu.-ft. of cargo storage. This vehicle easily combines versatility and comfort in an above-average way!
Our vehicle was powered by a Kia 3.3 liter V6 rated at 276 horsepower coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Three driving modes are available: ECO, Comfort and Normal.
The V6 motor provided ample power for entering the Interstate and passing when required. The 0-60 MPH is 7.4 seconds, quite remarkable considering the vehicle weighs in at 4,772 pounds.
The ride was very comfortable and the vehicle handled sharp mountain road turns with minimal body roll. As expected, acceleration handled the mountain climb with ease.
Fuel economy is rated at 17/city and 22/highway MPG.
Kia's Sedona has all of the expected safety features including front and side air-bags and full length side curtain airbags for all three rows of seating. Mechanicals include ABS, traction and stability control and brake assist. Standard on our vehicle was bind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, collision-warning system and surround view camera - must have features in our opinion.
Entertainment is a big part of the attraction of the Sedona with Infinity surround sound, Sirius XM radio and Kia-s UVO infotainment and connectivity platform with smart phone integration.
Our test vehicle, SXL, with optional features was listed at $43,295.
BOTTOM LINE: Add the Sedona to your 'must see' shopping list!
By Bob Kroupa
At a glance the newly designed attractive Sedona appears to be a combination of the family minivan and a sport utility vehicle. Its front styling, with a lower simulated skid pad and grill, continues to reflect the KIA brand. The side doors are enhanced with a lower spear-like design. The rear profile has some pizzazz with another lower simulated skid pad matching the one under the grill.
The interior has a very user friendly instrument panel with its easy-to-read gauges and conventional control dials. Numerous cup holders and storage bins are offered including dual stacked glove boxes with the lower one insulated to provide cooling for drinks and snacks.
We found the heated front Napa-leather seats with arm rests to be quite comfortable. In addition, the driver's seat had a power-lumbar feature.
The Sedona is a very versatile machine. It includes lower seat anchors and tethers in abundance for child seats. Not only does it provide the ideal family vehicle for those needing child seat hardware but the conversion to youth and adult seating is easy to make. The Sedona is a great family car.
We had an occasion to attend the theater in the Virginia mountains with a total of six adults. The remote controlled sliding rear doors allowed ease of entry into and egress from the Sedona.
The second row with split 'captain' seats had a forward sliding feature that provided our third row passenger with easy entry and plenty of leg room. The captains seats included a fold-out support for your legs resembling an ottoman.
In addition, behind the third row was a 33.9 cu.-ft. of storage for all our baggage. Adding to the Sedona's load carrying profile, the second and third row seats fold flat to provide 142 cu.-ft. of cargo storage. This vehicle easily combines versatility and comfort in an above-average way!
Our vehicle was powered by a Kia 3.3 liter V6 rated at 276 horsepower coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Three driving modes are available: ECO, Comfort and Normal.
The V6 motor provided ample power for entering the Interstate and passing when required. The 0-60 MPH is 7.4 seconds, quite remarkable considering the vehicle weighs in at 4,772 pounds.
The ride was very comfortable and the vehicle handled sharp mountain road turns with minimal body roll. As expected, acceleration handled the mountain climb with ease.
Fuel economy is rated at 17/city and 22/highway MPG.
Kia's Sedona has all of the expected safety features including front and side air-bags and full length side curtain airbags for all three rows of seating. Mechanicals include ABS, traction and stability control and brake assist. Standard on our vehicle was bind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, collision-warning system and surround view camera - must have features in our opinion.
Entertainment is a big part of the attraction of the Sedona with Infinity surround sound, Sirius XM radio and Kia-s UVO infotainment and connectivity platform with smart phone integration.
Our test vehicle, SXL, with optional features was listed at $43,295.
BOTTOM LINE: Add the Sedona to your 'must see' shopping list!