2005 Chrysler Pacifica New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica?
To reduce prices and make the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica more appealing to consumers, a mid-level Touring model is added to the lineup and the base model has been stripped of formerly standard equipment. Newly optional on the Pacifica is a rear parking assist system. A new Signature Series model includes a six-disc CD changer, a power rear liftgate, and heated second-row seating. New exterior colors include Linen Gold and Magnesium Pearlcoat, while Onyx Green is cancelled. Also deleted this year is the two-tone Deep Jade/Light Taupe interior color scheme.

Advantages of the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica:

• Safety, as evidenced by standard feature list and five-star crash-test ratings
• Drives more like a car than a minivan or an SUV
• Lower-priced base model
• Slick high-tech options that appeal to moneyed consumers
• Extremely comfortable seating for four adults

Objections to the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica:

• Engine can be overwhelmed by Chrysler Pacifica's curb weight and payload
• Meager cargo space with third-row seat in use
• Poor rearward visibility
• Price can exceed the Chrysler brand's current perceived value

Editor's Advice:
Chrysler has successfully distilled the essence of what the American consumer wants into a single, do-it-all vehicle called the Pacifica. It has the comfort of a minivan, the all-wheel-drive capability of an SUV, the driving characteristics of a sedan, and the opulent trimming of a luxury vehicle. Safety is also a strong selling point, and the Chrysler Pacifica's got the goods to protect its occupants. As long as the third-row seat remains folded, there's decent cargo space on board, and the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica is a handsome vehicle. A family of four will find the Chrysler Pacifica quite rewarding, though power is a bit short and the price tag is a bit tall.