The Chrysler Pacifica traces its roots to the original minivan. Four decades ago, this innovative concept saved Chrysler from bankruptcy, and transformed American family transportation. Although the minivan segment has shrunk, the Pacifica’s practicality, optional hybrid powertrain, and available luxury features still make it a compelling choice for families.
Chrysler recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. To mark the milestone, the company has introduced the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica 100th Anniversary Edition. Along with Luster Gray wheels, distinctive grille trim, and “Est. 1925” badging, the versatile people mover adds a hat trick of new exterior finishes: Red Hot, Bright White, and Hydro Blue. Gloss-black mirror caps and a surround view camera system round out the new trim level’s changes. Otherwise, the 2026 Pacifica lineup remains largely unchanged.
Two powertrains are available on the 2026 Pacifica: a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and a conventional gasoline version. The PHEV is the range-topping Pacifica model and features a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with two electric motors, producing a total of 260 horsepower. Notably, the hybrid is less powerful than the gas model and is offered only with front-wheel drive (FWD).
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid achieves 82 MPGe and offers an all-electric range of 32 miles. Using a Level 2 charger, the battery can be fully charged in as little as two hours. Once the battery is depleted, the Pacifica PHEV is EPA-rated at 30 mpg in combined driving.
The conventional gas version of the Pacifica features a 3.6-liter V6 with 287 hp, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the choice of FWD or all-wheel drive (AWD). When equipped with FWD, it’s EPA-rated at 22 mpg combined; opting for AWD reduces that figure to 20 mpg combined.
The base Select trim starts around $46,000. It includes a solid list of standard features, such as heated seats, a heated steering wheel, power sliding doors, a power liftgate, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring.
Prospective Pacifica buyers should note that Chrysler’s clever second-row Stow ’n Go seating, which allows the seats to fold quickly into the floor, is not available on hybrid models because the battery occupies that space.
As is typical for minivans, buyers can option the 2026 Pacifica with limousine-level amenities. Along with quilted Nappa leather seats, the top-spec Plug-in Hybrid Pinnacle trim, which starts just north of $62,460, comes standard with a rear-seat entertainment system featuring 10.1-inch touchscreens, a 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, plus an integrated vacuum to help clean up any spilled popcorn.
All versions of the 2026 Pacifica include advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning.
While SUVs may have replaced the minivan as the default family-sized people mover, the Pacifica still faces strong competition in its segment. The Honda Odyssey lacks AWD or a hybrid powertrain, but it makes up for it with a peppy V6 engine and surprisingly good driving dynamics.
At first glance, the Kia Carnival looks more like an SUV than a traditional minivan. Although all Carnival vans are FWD, a hybrid powertrain is available. The Toyota Sienna is another notable rival. Hybrid-only, the Sienna offers AWD across all trims and features inspired color choices, such as Cement Gray and Cypress Green. However, with just 245 hp, it is less powerful than both versions of the Pacifica.
Chrysler is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of February 5, 2026, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
John Coyle has spent two decades in the automotive industry. Over that time, he's driven Jeeps through Moab, tackled Fuji Speedway in a Lexus LFA, experienced the insanity of the Gumball 3000, and survived daily driving a 1978 Jaguar. He lives in Sacramento, California, with the coolest girl in the world and three black cats.
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