The question of whether it’s worth the added cost to have a plug-in hybrid powertrain in the Chrysler Pacifica is part of this minivan.

The greatest benefit of this minivan has to be the fuel mileage but is that worth the concessions you’ll have to make in order to make this the minivan you want to drive. There are certain benefits, and when you have to drive a long way, additional fuel mileage is always appreciated.

The Drawbacks to the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The first question you might ask is where the battery packs are located. In the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid, you lose one seat to give you seating for up to seven people, and you lose the trademark Stow ‘n Go seating that Chrysler is famous for. That’s because the area where the seats would normally fold into is now the location of the battery pack. This means you have a lower center of gravity in this minivan and you also have less storage for the seating or for your stuff when you take this minivan out for a drive.

Is it Worth the Additions?

The seats of the Pacifica Hybrid are made to be more comfortable than in the regular Pacifica. Because these seats don’t need to fold into the floor, and there’s one less of them, Chrysler was able to offer more comfort for those seated behind the front row. The hybrid model uses an Atkinson cycle timing in the 3.6-liter V6 engine that’s aided by an electric generator and 16.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This package of power is attached to a nine-speed automatic transmission to give you smooth and elegant shifting on the road.

When you take this version of the Pacifica out for a drive, you’re going to see that this is a minivan that allows you to have a smooth and enjoyable drive. While the Atkinson cycle is designed to help reduce the odd feeling of a hybrid, it’s easy to notice in the Pacifica. If you think about the fact you’re going to drive this minivan for many miles while you own it, you’ll realize the addition of two mpg on the highway can make a difference. Of course, driving up to 33 miles on electricity makes a huge difference for you when you have to run errands on a daily basis.

Think About Your Drive and Enjoy the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

Do you like to get out on the road and take a drive? Are you willing to enjoy the qualities of a hybrid when you do? If so, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid could be the perfect minivan for you. What it takes away in storage, it more than gives back in fuel efficiency and comfort. Higher trims offer you more features and entertainment choices to make sure the entire family can get in and experience an excellent ride in the first hybrid minivan on the market.