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Pacifica offers style, performance and safety

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July 5, 2008

As one of the original crossover vehicles in the domestic marketplace, the Chrysler Pacifica continues to offer a compelling mix of style, versatility and safety coupled with a pleasant driving experience. Its modern, protective exterior appearance is complemented by a thoughtful, luxurious interior, the perfect transportation solution for active individuals.

The 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is offered in LX, Touring and Limited trim levels and available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drivetrain configurations. The Pacifica receives its base power from a 3.8-liter V6 engine or an aluminum 4.0-liter V6. Torque is transferred to the road via the standard four-speed automatic transaxle with AutoStick. A six-speed AutoStick automatic transmission transfers motion to the pavement for the 4.0-liter V6 engine. The optional all-wheel drive system employs a viscous coupling center differential with a front/rear torque split of up to 90 percent. The rear differential is of the open variety.

On the road, the Pacifica is solid, quiet and secure. Acceleration is strong with the upmarket 4.0-liter V6 engine. Handling and control are responsive and safe. Quick maneuvers at speed inspire confidence.

The Pacifica crossover rides on a unitized steel body that incorporates rubber-isolated front and rear suspension cradles. To this robust foundation, the suspension hardware is attached. The front suspension features Iso struts with integral gas-charged shock absorbers, coil springs, asymmetrical lower control arms, link-type stabilizer bar and urethane jounce bumpers. The rear suspension features a five-link independent setup with coil springs, link-type stabilizer bar and gas-charged, self-leveling shock absorbers.

Inside the cabin, the Pacifica is loaded to the gills with creature comforts to surprise and delight driver and passengers alike. A partial listing of amenities includes leather-trimmed seating, 10-way power driver's seat, heated first and second row seats, second row bucket seats with fore-aft, recline and fold-flat capabilities, power sunroof, power liftgate, dual-zone automatic temperature control and auxiliary fan for rear seat passengers.

For versatility, second and third row seats conveniently fold flat. A continuous, full-length center console features first and second row dual cup holders, storage area and adjustable air outlets. Pacifica Touring and Limited models feature three row 2+2+2 six-passenger seating, while the entry-level model features two row, five-passenger seating. All Pacifica models feature easy-to-use controls and wide entry/exit access. The driver enjoys chair-height command-of-road seating, while passengers will experience plenty of leg, hip and head room in each row.

Ratings & Specs

Wheelbase: 116.3; overall length: 198.5; width: 79.3; height: 68.3 (all vehicle measurements are in inches).

Engines: 3.8-liter V6, 200 hp at 5,000 rpm and 235 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm; 4.0-liter V6, 253 hp at 6,000 rpm and 262 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,100 rpm.

Transmissions: four-speed automatic or six-speed automatic

EPA fuel economy: 3.8-liter V6, 18 city/25 hwy. (FWD); 16 city/23 hwy. (AWD); 4.0-liter V6, 16 city/24 hwy. (FWD); 16 city/23 hwy. (AWD)

Cargo capacity: 92.2 cubic feet

Payload capacity: 1,147 lbs.

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features include dual front airbags, side curtain airbags, driver inflatable knee blocker, brake assist, electronic stability program, traction control, security alarm, engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring system, automatic power door locks, remote keyless entry and four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock. Touring adds automatic headlamps, fog lights and garage door opener. Limited adds rear parking sensors and power adjustable pedals.

Optional safety features include high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, UConnect communications system, navigation system and rearview camera.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Chrysler Pacifica crossover starts from $24,635 for the LX up to $36,195 for the Limited AWD. Destination charges add $730. 2008 Chrysler Pacifica