What It Is
Although a next-generation Chrysler Pacifica hasn’t officially been announced, recent statements by Chrysler and Ram brand CEO Christine Feuell suggest we can expect something big on the horizon. Feuell told media during the reveal of Chrysler’s Halcyon concept vehicle in February that the company “will be in the future of the minivan segment” but that it needs to reimagine what that will be. Chrysler introduced the modern minivan back in 1983 and intends to continue innovating in the segment it pioneered. A refresh of the present Pacifica should bow sometime after the 2025 reveal of Chrysler’s coming all-new electric crossover, with several more completely new Chrysler models expected in quick succession after that.
By the time 2030 rolls around, look for a completely remade Pacifica bearing little resemblance to the vehicle on sale today. It could potentially introduce new powertrain and propulsion methods, Level 4 autonomy, or even an entryway similar to the Halcyon’s six-door “red carpet” entry. While we won’t be surprised if the Pacifica name doesn’t survive the transition, a new take on the popular Stow ’N Go seating option should. (A next-gen vision of the system was previewed in the Halcyon.) Current plug-in hybrid Pacificas don’t offer Stow ’N Go or AWD, so an all-new design gives Chrysler engineers room to rethink classic minivan features and extend drivetrain options.
Why It Matters
As the only production vehicle sporting the Chrysler nameplate, the Pacifica minivan (current model shown below) is virtually the brand’s sole income driver at present, short of the remaining inventory of discontinued 300 sedans. Feuell rightly sees Chrysler as a blank slate for investing in new models and ideas without alienating existing customers by changing popular models too drastically. However, will new customers bite? If the coming electrified vehicles generate significant interest and sales, then some of the pressure abates, and Chrysler can potentially afford to take its time developing a revolutionary new people mover to replace the present Pacifica. On the contrary, if sales are slow, the next-gen minivan may need to be rushed and pulled forward to help keep Chrysler afloat—that is, if the brand continues to exist at all. Consequently, the Pacifica needs to help fund Chrysler’s new models for now, and by extension, the new models will then have to fund development of a bold new Pacifica.
Platform and Powertrain
The STLA Large platform unveiled earlier this year by Chrysler’s parent company, Stellantis, is the most likely candidate to underpin a future minivan. Moreover, like other planned Chrysler releases post-2025, an all-electric-powered Pacifica seems inevitable, and STLA Large supports 400- and 800-volt architectures. However, it also supports other propulsion options, leaving room for a hybridized Pacifica if America’s appetite for EVs wavers or as a potential second option, perhaps something along the lines of what Ram has unveiled for its range-extended Ramcharger pickup.
This configuration consists of an electric powertrain with an onboard combustion generator capable of a combined range of more than 600 miles. It’s an option that makes a lot of sense for minivans, as well—a segment Chrysler says is popular with ride-sharing, empty nesters, and growing families that all might find stopping to charge more inconvenient than others.
Given its projected timeline, the next Pacifica could be a potential candidate to introduce future tech Feuell says the brand is investing in, including wireless vehicle charging and a lithium-sulfur and graphene battery chemistry reportedly capable of increased charging speeds to help deliver as much as 200 miles of range in just five minutes.
Estimated Price: $60,000–$80,000
Expected On-Sale Date: 2030
