2021 Chrysler Pacifica debuts with AWD, Pinnacle trim

The Chrysler Pacifica minivan emerged four years ago and has been losing customers lately, selling 98,000 units in the USA in 2019 (down 20,000 from 2018). Let us see what the recently revealed facelift can do to fix that.

Both the front and the rear end have been redesigned. The brake lights are now connected with a horizontal LED strip, and the rear bumper boasts a more modern look. Pedestrian-aware emergency braking is now included in all trims, while new wheels are a paid option.

The infotainment system now boasts a 10.1-inch display and is Android-based, which makes it five times as fast as the old one, the manufacturer claims. USB ports number 12 in total, and there is even a kids’ surveillance camera that monitors the rear bank and shows the video on the central display.

Speaking of trims, a new top trim level called Pinnacle now complements the range, introducing Nappa leather, comfortable pillows for second-row seats, and a twelve-liter storage box tucked in between the front seats where the throw-back armrests usually are.

The engine range stays unchanged. You may still purchase a Chrysler Pacifica with a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 rated at 291 hp (217 kW) and linked to a ten-speed automatic transmission. The other option would be a hybrid powertrain based on the same engine downgraded to 264 hp (197 kW), plus two electric motors rated at 86 hp (64 kW) and 116 hp (86 kW). The latter ships with electromechanical CVT and uses a 16-kWh battery that you can charge from a regular wall socket for up to 53 kilometers (33 miles) of electric range.

Sales of the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica will begin in the fourth quarter of 2020.

For the first time on record, the minivan sports an AWD system. A multi0plate clutch automatically engages the rear axle whenever the front wheels start skidding, and also whenever you floor the gas pedal or turn on the window wipers.

All AWD variants of the Pacifica boast increased ride height (+20 mm / +0.8 inches), improved suspension, and a rear roll bar.

The cabin remains just as versatile and flexible as before. For instance, the Stow 'n Go feature enables you to fold the rear two rows to get a completely level trunk surface.

The introduction of AWD and other improvements will likely help the Pacifica regain popularity on the market. Until its premiere, the Toyota Sienna had been the only AWD-capable minivan in North America.

On one final note, the AWD will become available for the old pre-facelift Chrysler Pacifica as well, starting in the second quarter of 2020.