Chrysler takes on minivan segment

Chrysler is taking a fresh slot into the minivan segment that will serve the family needs of customers. Being an entirely all new minivan, the multi-purpose vehicle is built on a specially developed platform, and the first PV to be offered with a hybrid power-train. It is also an impressively well-specced MPV.

The Pacifica will replace the Chrysler Town & Country and Voyager models although unlike its predecessors is expected to come to Nigeria as it comes in left-hand drive. Chrysler defines a family MPV as an eight-seater that can take a standard sheet of plywood (2450 x 1225mm) with the seats folded, making it seem more of a maxivan than a minivan.

Keyless entry and remote starting are standard, as are hands-free sliding doors and tailgate, operated by making a kicking motion under the sliding door or bumper. Chrysler’s signature Stow ‘n Go seating system now features a button on the B pillar that, when pressed, moves the front seat forward to allow the second row to fold into the floor tub. Then press it again and the front seat moves back to where it was.

Gizmotronics include four surround-view cameras, automatic parking, adaptive cruise control, and lane assist, auto braking if an impact appears imminent and reversing sensors that will stop the car if you back up too close to something solid.

And of course, it’s online via U-connect and an 8.4 inch touch screen display on the centre stack, with a 10 inch high-definition 10-inch touchscreen in the back of each front seat to keep the little ones quiet on long trips. The conventional version has Chrysler’s 210kW/355Nm, 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid has a new electrically variable transmission with two electric motors, each of which is capable of driving the wheels.

They’re powered by a 16kWh lithium ion battery that Chrysler says is good for an estimated 48km of zero-emissions driving, and it’s expected to return an EPA-rated 2.95 litres per 100km around town.