Why the 2018 Pacifica Hybrid Is The Best Hybrid, Period

When the Chrysler Pacifica hit showrooms last year, it took the automotive industry by storm. Many thought the days of the minivan were numbered, but the Pacifica was enough to almost single-handedly bring the segment back from the dead. In 2018, the Pacifica comes back with even more to offer, including a hybrid powertrain that rivals not just other minivans, but hybrids in general. For the perfect eco-friendly family hauler, check out the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid.

The Powertrain
To get its amazing range and fuel economy, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid employs an advanced powertrain that combines both electrical and gasoline-powered components. This consists of a 3.6-liter, Atkinson-cycle V-6 engine, a 16-kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, and two permanent magnet asynchronous motors. Paired with a continuously variable transmission, this gives the Pacifica Hybrid an impressive 260 horsepower and up to 231 pound-feet of torque, outpacing nearly ever other hybrid on the market.
The other amazing facet of the Pacifica Hybrid is its plug-in option, which allows you to run in fully electric mode for up to a 33-mile range. When you come home from errands or the office, plug the Pacifica into the wall. With a 110-volt outlet, you can get a full charge in 14 hours, but with a 240-volt outlet, this time shrinks to just two hours. (The 240-volt outlet is sold separately.)
Although the Pacifica Hybrid offers tremendous amounts of power, fuel economy is perhaps its most amazing and alluring asset. It gets 33 mpg combined, and when using both electric and gas components, it boasts a total miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) of 84. Together with a 16.5-gallon gas tank, this minivan gets a total range of 566 miles, putting near the top of the hybrid market.
Uconnect
Another spectacular asset of the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the Uconnect infotainment system. This year’s model gets the Uconnect 4 system with an 8.4-inch touch-screen display for easy navigation. With Uconnect, you have instant access to all your favorite apps, podcasts, radio stations, navigation, and more.
The hybrid’s version also allows you to monitor the power usage of your vehicle. Track the performance of your vehicle, adjust your charging schedule to run during less expensive off-peak hours, and view your power flow and driving history at the touch of a button. The dash also has a small green light that comes on to tell you when you’re driving most efficiently, maximizing the capabilities of the hybrid.
Stunning Looks
Aside from the hybrid badges on the exterior of the van, you can’t tell the Pacifica apart from the gas-powered version. That said, it’s arguably the most attractive van to ever hit the market, and upper trims are decked out with plenty of extras such as 20-inch wheels and other accents.
When you add it all up, the Pacifica is the ultimate hybrid vehicle, great on the gas tank, and excellent for families. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, save cash, and drive the best minivan on the road, put the Pacifica on your radar.
 
Image via Flickr by mariordo59 | Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 | Cropped from original