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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Engine | 3.6L 6-Cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic 9-spd |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
| City / Hwy MPG | 19 / 28 MPG |
| Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $3,050 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 401 g/mi |
| Seating Capacity | 8 passengers |
| Body Style | Minivan |
| Base Price | $36,390–$45,887 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
With an overall Carivo score of 7.0/10, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica earns a Good rating among the minivans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.7/10, while Reliability at 6.1/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional minivan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.1/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. Safety is a strength too — 8.7/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.4/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.7/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $36,390–$45,887, 19 MPG, seating 8, the Chrysler Pacifica sits in the mid-market bracket of the minivan segment. Value lands at 7.0/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica, but it needs the right buyer. Its technology and performance and reliability scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica ranks #42 of 47 minivans in the Carivo database — better than 13% of the segment. Its 7.0/10 overall score is 0.6 points below the segment average of 7.6/10. Its $36,390 starting price is about 8% above the segment's median of $33,751.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Minivan ranking →
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica scores 6.8/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.0 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 7.2/10 | $41,189 | Read review → |
| 2025 | 7.2/10 | $41,189 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 7.2/10 | $39,990 | Read review → |
| 2023 | 7.1/10 | $38,790 | Read review → |
| 2022 | 7.0/10 | $37,590 | Read review → |
| 2021 (this review) | 7.0/10 | $36,390 | |
| 2020 | 6.9/10 | $35,191 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 6.9/10 | $33,991 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 6.8/10 | $32,791 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 6.7/10 | $31,592 | Read review → |
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
| Seats / Mid/rear assembly 24/03/2022 · 22V181000 | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Pacifica and 2021 Voyager vehicles. The second-row seat-to-floor mounting latch may bind and stick open, preventing the seat from properly securing to the floor. As such, these vehicles fail to comply… |
|---|---|
| Electrical system / Wiring / Connectors/plugs/receptacles 17/01/2023 · 23V010000 | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Electric vehicles (PHEVs). An internal transmission wiring connector may short circuit, resulting in an unexpected engine shutdown. |
| Back over prevention / sensing system / camera 13/06/2024 · 24V436000 | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Chrysler Voyager, 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster… |
| Air bags / Side/window / Curtain 24/10/2024 · 24V793000 | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Pacifica and 2020-2021, 2023 Voyager vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the side curtain air bags may prevent the air bags from deploying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the… |
| Equipment adaptive/mobility / Wheelchair restraints/securement / Latch/anchor / 17/12/2025 · 25V876000 | Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with… |
Showing 5 of 7 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Other minivans at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Explore the full lineup of Chrysler models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
