Driving Impressions

The Chrysler Pacifica handles more like a car than a sport utility. We were impressed with its handling in Northern California, where the paving is excellent, the roads are twisty and interesting, and the traffic is relatively light. Pacifica also impressed us as a daily driver, hauling friends around and out on the town, and making routine trips to the grocery store.

The 3.5-liter V6 that comes on all 2006 Pacifica models is powerful and has lots of torque. The four-speed automatic is smooth and quiet in operation, though we wish it was a five-speed. We enjoyed using the AutoStick feature for manual shifting: Pull it back to select the manual mode, then left to downshift, right to upshift.

The all-wheel drive, on models so equipped, works transparently and helps the Pacifica sail through corners like a sports sedan, rain or shine. Under normal conditions, the all-wheel-drive system sends all of the power to the front wheels. But it can transfer up to 90 percent of the power to the rear wheels whenever the front wheels lose grip, under hard acceleration or in slippery conditions, for example. The AWD models use a viscous coupling in the center differential and an open differential at the rear. We found the all-wheel drive worked well in the dry weather of California's wine country and northern Central Valley, and our experience with all-wheel drive in other Chrysler products leaves us confident it'll not disappoint in a blinding rainstorm or in 12 inches of snow.

While the Pacifica's steering is not racecar communicative or direct, it's better than many, and the steering wheel feels good in the hands. We found the suspension a willing partner in the vehicle's performance: smooth and supple while controlling lean and wallow. The isolated front and rear subframes, the long wheelbase and wide stance really help to deliver a quality ride. As a bonus, the interior is very quiet at cruising speeds.

Four-wheel-disc brakes and Michelin Pilot all-weather tires easily overcame the substantial weight of the Pacifica, providing safe and sure stops. The brakes got a workout from us, and they responded every time without fade or smell or any sign of distress. ABS comes standard, allowing the driver to maintain steering control under panic braking.

Summary

The Chrysler Pacifica is a versatile vehicle. It accelerates quickly with its powerful 3.5-liter V6 and it corners reasonably well, which makes it enjoyable to drive. Upper-level models are luxurious and practical, while the more basic five-passenger model offers a good value.

New Car Test Drive correspondent Tom Lankard is based in Northern California.

Model Line Overview

Engines:250-hp, 3.5-liter dohc 24-valve V6

Transmissions:4-speed automatic

Safety equipment (standard):ABS; dual multi-stage front airbags; driver knee bag; child safety seat anchors

Safety equipment (optional):supplemental side curtain airbags for all seating rows; rear park assist; tire-pressure monitor; traction control

Basic warranty:5 years/50,000 miles

Assembled in:Windsor, Ontario, Canada