2017 Chrysler Pacifica Review: The Ultimate Family Minivan from a Mom of Three – Spacious, Smart Features, and a Built-in Vacuum!

As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for products and innovations that simplify my chaotic life. This past week, my quest led me straight to our local dealership to experience firsthand the highly-praised 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. Everyone I knew was raving about its family-friendly design, and after a thorough test drive, I can wholeheartedly agree. This article, while sponsored by FCA US, LLC, reflects my genuine and enthusiastic opinions based entirely on my personal experience with this remarkable vehicle.

My husband, unfortunately, couldn’t join me for this exciting expedition, but honestly, moms often take the lead on these crucial family decisions anyway. From the endless school runs and extracurricular shuttles—think band practice, swim lessons, and a myriad of other activities—to our annual cross-country road trips, our family of five desperately needs a vehicle that can keep up. We need space, comfort, reliability, and most importantly, features that truly understand the unique demands of family life. The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica promised all this and more, and it certainly delivered.

2017 Chrysler Pacifica: First Impressions and Thoughtful Design

Beyond its undeniably attractive exterior—a sleek, modern design that redefines the minivan aesthetic—the new Chrysler Pacifica 2017 is packed with features designed specifically with families in mind. It truly feels like Chrysler consulted moms everywhere, meticulously gathering a wish list of essential functionalities and innovative solutions. It’s not just a car; it’s a mobile command center for busy parents. And as an added bonus, Chrysler is offering three lucky families the chance to win a dream field trip experience *and* the All-New Chrysler Pacifica itself!

Two features immediately stood out and brought a genuine smile to my face: the expansive entertainment screens in the second row and, yes, the revolutionary built-in vacuum cleaner. Seriously, the latter is nothing short of genius! The rear screens go far beyond simple movie playback. Each screen can play a different movie simultaneously, an absolute godsend for siblings with varying tastes in entertainment. Furthermore, they come pre-loaded with games, ensuring endless amusement for long journeys.

The innovation doesn’t stop there. These screens also integrate a brilliant trip tracker aptly named “Are We There Yet?” Picture this common road trip scenario: you’re driving, and your child inevitably asks, “How much longer until we get there?” Instead of the usual exasperated sigh, they can simply press a button. The system will display the remaining time and distance to your destination. This feature alone is a testament to Chrysler’s understanding of family dynamics and is truly genius!

2017 Chrysler Pacifica: Stow ‘n Vac – The Game Changer for Cleanliness

Are you ready for the ultimate parent-friendly feature? Introducing the built-in Stow ‘n Vac! As a mom well into her 40s with three kids who constantly turn the car into a mobile snack bar, this feature is an absolute revelation. While it might not excite a 20-year-old as much, for us seasoned parents, it’s pure brilliance. No more searching for quarters at the car wash, no more lugging out the household vacuum with extension cords. The Stow ‘n Vac is conveniently integrated right into the vehicle’s interior.

It retracts seamlessly into a dedicated compartment and activates with the push of a button. Complete with various attachments, its hose is impressively long, capable of reaching every nook and cranny of the Pacifica, from the front footwells all the way to the very back of the third row. Spilled crumbs, dirt from soccer practice, pet hair – this powerful little vacuum handles it all with ease, making car cleanups a breeze and maintaining the pristine condition of your family vehicle.

2017 Chrysler Pacifica: Advanced Technology and Driver Convenience

The large, intuitive screen in the front of the Pacifica is a multifunctional hub, making every drive more informed and less stressful. It features a crystal-clear backup camera, an indispensable tool for navigating busy parking lots (a must-have for me!). Beyond that, it offers parallel, perpendicular, and rear park assist with visible guidance on the screen – a true savior for anyone, like me, who sometimes struggles with perfect parking maneuvers. What’s more, it allows you to monitor what the kids are doing on their second-row screens, providing peace of mind without having to turn around. This comprehensive Uconnect system truly puts control and convenience at your fingertips, managing navigation, audio, and climate with ease.

While driving, a screen of this size and capability is incredibly helpful. Backing out of a super tight spot becomes manageable, and the parking assistance features are invaluable. It’s comforting to know that I’m not the only one who appreciates a little help with parallel parking!

2017 Chrysler Pacifica: Stow ‘n Go Seating – Unmatched Versatility

Now, let’s talk about why the legendary Stow ‘n Go seating in the Chrysler Pacifica truly rocks! This innovative system offers unparalleled flexibility for both passengers and cargo. When you need to seat up to eight passengers, the second-row seats are up, allowing you to utilize the spacious floor bins beneath for discreet storage of toys, groceries, or sports equipment. These integrated storage compartments are a lifesaesaver, keeping the cabin tidy and organized.

However, when the need arises to transport large items – perhaps a trip to the furniture store, moving supplies, or just creating extra legroom for third-row passengers – you can effortlessly fold the second and third-row seats completely into the floor. This transformation creates a vast, flat cargo area, turning your comfortable minivan into a highly capable utility vehicle in mere moments. This adaptability is incredibly helpful for family trips, DIY projects, or simply accommodating unexpected cargo.

Comprehensive 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Features Overview

The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica is designed to anticipate every family need, blending comfort, technology, and safety seamlessly. Here’s a detailed look at the standout features that make it a segment leader:

1. Quietest Vehicle in its Class: Experience serene rides thanks to advanced noise-cancellation technology and acoustic glass, making conversations and music clearer.
2. Stow ‘n Go Seating with Easy Assist: Effortlessly fold second and third-row seats into the floor, creating expansive cargo space or hidden storage bins. The assist feature makes operation even smoother.
3. Power Liftgate: Convenient hands-free access to the cargo area, perfect when your hands are full.
4. Uconnect Theater System: Featuring dual 10.1-inch touchscreens, Blu-ray player, HDMI, USB, wireless streaming, integrated kids’ games, and the innovative “Are We There Yet?” trip tracker.
5. 8-Passenger Seating: Ample room for the whole family and friends, ensuring everyone travels in comfort.
6. Hybrid & MPG Efficiency: The first and only hybrid minivan offers an impressive 80 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), setting a new standard for fuel economy in its class.
7. Stow ‘n Vac Integrated Vacuum: Seriously, I cannot emphasize enough how smart and indispensable this built-in vacuum is for maintaining a clean interior.
8. Tri-Pane Panoramic Sunroof: Bathes the cabin in natural light, offering expansive sky views for all passengers, enhancing the feeling of openness and luxury.
9. Hands-Free Sliding Doors: Operated with a simple foot swipe under the door or a button, making entry and exit effortless even with arms full of groceries or children.
10. Hands-Free Liftgate: Similarly, open the rear hatch with a foot swipe or button on the handle, providing convenient access when your hands are occupied.
11. Easy Tilt Seats for 3rd Row: Designed for easy access to the third row and maximum comfort, these seats even recline for added relaxation on long journeys.
12. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, and can even bring the Pacifica to a complete stop and resume speed in traffic.
13. 360 Surround View Camera: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces incredibly easy and safe.
14. Parallel, Perpendicular & Rear Park Assist: The system takes over steering to guide the vehicle into parking spots, simplifying a task many drivers dread.
15. Blind Spot Warning with Rear Cross Path Detection: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots or approaching from the side when backing out of a parking space.
16. Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking: Detects potential frontal impacts and can apply the brakes automatically to mitigate or prevent a collision.
17. Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist: Alerts you if you drift out of your lane unintentionally and can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane.
18. 20-Inch Wheels: Enhances the Pacifica’s stylish exterior and contributes to a smooth, stable ride.
19. Rotary Style E-Shift: A sleek, space-saving rotary dial replaces the traditional gear shifter, adding a modern touch to the console.
20. Stow Assist: Further aids in the effortless operation of the Stow ‘n Go seating system.

These features collectively demonstrate that the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica isn’t just a minivan; it’s a meticulously engineered family vehicle that offers unparalleled convenience, entertainment, and safety. It truly caters to the diverse needs of modern families, making every journey, big or small, a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.

Final Thoughts: The Chrysler Pacifica for Your Family

Seriously, you won’t be disappointed with the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. If you’re searching for a remarkable family car that excels at everything from epic field trips and long road trips to the daily grind of school drop-offs and grocery runs, the Chrysler Pacifica is an outstanding choice. Its blend of innovative features, spacious comfort, and advanced safety technology truly sets it apart in the minivan segment. It’s a vehicle built to adapt to your family’s dynamic lifestyle, providing both practicality and pleasure on every journey.

As I mentioned, Chrysler is offering a fantastic opportunity to WIN a field trip experience! From October 10th to 26th, you can visit the PacificKids.com site and apply to win an unforgettable field trip, complete with the Pacifica experience! Following that, you’ll have another chance to win your very own 2017 Chrysler Pacifica from November 12th-18th simply by voting for your favorite Pacifikids field trip. It’s that easy to enter for a chance to drive home in this incredible family vehicle!

What’s your favorite feature of the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, and where would you love to go on your first adventure in this new minivan?