When buying a minivan, you also have to take into consideration its design, performance, and features, as well as the price range and specifications, along with seating capacity, fuel capacity, fuel type, fuel economy, and the latest technology features. What are the similarities and differences between the renowned minivans Chrysler Voyager vs. Pacifica? Voyager is the low-priced option, while the new Chrysler Pacifica is a high-end, feature-laden minivan with advanced tech, hybrid ability, and all-wheel drive.
Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental differences and Chrysler Voyager vs Chrysler Pacifica specs to guide your choice.
Overview of Major Differences
Chrysler Voyager
It features a roomy interior, a powerful engine, and seating for up to seven. Although it doesn’t come with some of the higher-end minivan’s premium amenities, it makes up for it by still providing a solid driving experience with smooth handling and an easy-to-use infotainment system.
Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica, on the other hand, is a luxury-focused minivan that goes for more comfort, technology, and efficiency. The vehicle comes in several trims, including a PHEV version, which makes it great for reducing fuel costs and carbon footprint. The Pacifica, too, offers more in the way of advanced driver-assist features, premium interior materials, and higher-end convenience features like Stow ‘n Go seating.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Market Position | Budget-friendly minivan | Premium, feature-packed minivan |
Primary Focus | Affordability & practicality | Luxury, technology & efficiency |
Hybrid Availability | No | Yes (PHEV model) |
Interior Features | Basic | Premium options available |
Seating Capacity
The seats are the must-have factors for families in search of a large and comfortable vehicle. In addition to two seats in the front row, a second-row bench seat, and a third-row bench seat, the Chrysler Voyager seats a total of seven passengers in the car. The Voyager rides low to the ground, with comfy seating and lots of legroom available, but a little less customization compared to its upscale variant.
You can also get more flexible seating options in the Chrysler Pacifica than with either Hybrid. Whereas the standard layout seats seven passengers like the Voyager, some trim levels offer an eight-passenger option that includes a second-row bench seat instead of a captain’s chair. The Pacifica also sports the Stow ‘n Go seating system, allowing second and third-row seats to fold completely into the floor for additional cargo space when needed.
With a bigger and more versatile cabin than the Voyager, the Pacifica makes a great choice for larger families or those needing versatile seating options.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Seating Capacity | 7 passengers | 7-8 passengers (depending on trim) |
Second-Row Seating | Bench seats or captain’s chairs | Stow ‘n Go captain’s chairs (standard) |
Third-Row Seating | Fold-flat bench seat | Stow ‘n Go fold-flat bench |
Seating Flexibility | Limited | High (with Stow ‘n Go feature) |
Engine Performance
Mechanically, the Chrysler Pacifica vs Voyager are identical and feature a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, rated at 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine delivers smooth acceleration and plenty of power, so both minivans can handle highway drives, city commutes, and the occasional light towing duty.
However, the Pacifica has a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. For the 3.6L V6, the Pacifica Hybrid combines it with an electric motor to increase fuel economy figures and lower emissions overall. The hybrid can drive all electricity for around 32 miles for daily commuting without using a drop of gasoline. In electric mode, the hybrid achieves 82 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), allowing for reduced fuel costs in the long run.
The Voyager and standard Pacifica have very similar driving dynamics, but players in the eco-conscious market benefitted from the plug-in hybrid Pacifica. It can serve as a viable alternative to traditional gasoline engines.
Transmission: Smooth and Efficient Performance
A 9-speed automatic transmission is standard on both the Chrysler Voyager and the gasoline offerings of the Chrysler Pacifica. This transmission is not only for smooth gear shifts but also offers improved acceleration as well as fuel efficiency.
Chrysler Voyager
The Voyager gets an honest 9-speed automatic, which gives it a touch, responsive daily-driving performance. This ensures smooth gear transitions for the minivan , which helps improve fuel efficiency and driving comfort. But since there is no hybrid variant of the Voyager, you don’t get the Pacifica Hybrid’s electronically variable transmission (CVT).
Chrysler Pacifica
Although the gasoline-powered Pacifica uses the same 9-speed automatic as the Voyager, the Pacifica Hybrid is a different animal. The Hybrid uses an electronically variable transmission (eCVT) to blend electric and gasoline power efficiently.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Transmission Type | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic (Gas) / eCVT (Hybrid) |
Shifting Performance | Smooth, fuel-efficient | Smooth, refined, optimized for hybrid mode |
Hybrid Compatibility | No | Yes (Hybrid model) |
Drivetrain: FWD vs. All-Wheel Drive
A minivan’s turning ability on all types of terrain is heavily influenced by its drivetrain configuration. The Chrysler Voyager comes exclusively with FWD, whereas the Pacifica can be equipped with either FWD or AWD.
Since the Voyager is intended as a more thrifty, family-oriented minivan, it is offered only in FWD configuration. FWD models are more fuel-efficient than their AWD counterparts and less expensive to maintain as they have fewer mechanical parts. These are best for mild climates and city/highway driving.
However, FWD can have a hard time with snow or off-road situations where traction is needed.
AWD on some trims is one of the Chrysler Pacifica’s main advantages. That is nice if you happen to be in an area where winters are harsh, or rain is frequent.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Drivetrain Options | FWD only | FWD (Standard) / AWD (Available) |
Traction Control | Basic traction control system | AWD for enhanced stability |
Best for | City driving, moderate climates | Snowy, wet, or rough terrains |
Fuel Economy – Gas vs. Hybrid Efficiency
Fuel economy matters when it comes to long-term savings. Both the Voyager and the gasoline Pacifica deliver similar fuel economy figures, but the Pacifica Hybrid is the best performer.
For a minivan, Voyager’s 3.6L V6 engine is also fuel-efficient, delivering:
- 19 MPG in the city
- 28 MPG on the highway
- 22 MPG combined
Unlike hybrids and PHEVs, the Voyager has no way to drive on electric power alone to reduce fuel consumption even further, as we noted in our first look at the two cars.
The Chrysler Pacifica MPG saving is the best in the hybrid model. When running on gas, it gets a respectable 30 MPG combined, better than the Voyager. In electric mode, it achieves 82 MPGe (Miles Per Gallon Equivalent), requiring far less fuel.
The 16-kWh battery can power up to 32 miles of electric running, meaning you can tackle short commutes without consuming an ounce of gas.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Fuel Economy (Gas) | 19 City / 28 Highway / 22 Combined MPG | 19-28 MPG (Gas) / 30 MPG (Hybrid mode) |
Fuel Economy (Electric – MPGe) | N/A | 82 MPGe |
Electric-Only Range | N/A | 32 miles |
Technology & Features
Much of what you find inside the Chrysler Voyager is also present in the Chrysler Pacifica, apart from the infotainment system. The Voyager is basic as far as tech features go, while the Pacifica supports the latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system and comes with a suite of assistance systems.
Base Chrysler Voyager features a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a simple audio system. If it suits most families’ needs, though, it is missing next-gen connectivity, a bigger display, and more upscale entertainment systems. It also lacks Uconnect 5, Chrysler’s latest infotainment system that’s known for its quicker response times, improved user interface, and greater connectivity options.
The Chrysler Pacifica is loaded with Uconnect 5 on a 10.1-inch screen—so much easier to get into. Mobile media units are also included, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, as well as multiple user profiles. The Pacifica will also offer a rear-seat entertainment system that includes dual screens, a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 360-degree camera system for better visibility. Again, the Pacifica is the perfect vehicle for long stretches on the road as it is designed with passenger convenience and entertainment of the middle and rear seaters.
Luxury & Comfort
One of the key places where the Chrysler Pacifica excels is in luxury and comfort, where the Voyager falls short. The Voyager is practical and comfortable but comes with fewer luxury amenities. The seats are well-padded and provide decent support for long runs, but they lack the premium feel and adjustability of the similar in the Pacifica.
The Pacifica includes a tri-zone climate control setup, where passengers can set temperatures individually in different areas of the vehicle. This is especially handy for households traveling in mixed weather conditions. The Voyager, however, only gets a dual-zone climate control system, less capable but fully functional.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Seat Material | Cloth upholstery | Leather options available |
Seat Heating & Ventilation | No | Available |
Steering Wheel Heating | No | Available |
Climate Control | Dual-zone | Tri-zone |
Noise Cancellation | No | Yes |
Cargo Space
The Chrysler Voyager and Pacifica both have ample room for cargo, making them great vehicles for families, but the Pacifica takes it a step further with its Stow ‘n Go seating system. The Voyager’s cargo area is big enough for large loads, though it is not capable of fully stowing the second-row seats into the floor. The second-row seats can’t be individually folded, so users who often reconfigure seating won’t find this all that convenient as the second-row seats need to be removed for maximum space.
Pacifica’s customer-rated available Stow ‘n Go seating system folds the second and third-row seats flat into the floor for an entirely flat load area. This feature makes switching from passenger to cargo a breeze without needing to remove seats. Pacifica has a great towing capacity that makes it a go-to for camping, picnicking, or shifting with hassle-free arrangements. The Pacifica also has a standard, hands-free power liftgate, which allows you to open it up and load in groceries or luggage with no need to fumble for keys when your hands are full.
Both models have plenty of storage for a road trip, but the added convenience and flexibility of the Pacifica give it the edge.
Safety Features
In terms of safety, both Voyager and Pacifica are equipped with key safety features, while the Pacifica adds advanced driver-assist technologies. Basic safety features such as rearview cameras, traction control, and stability control help keep families safe, and the Voyager is no exception. But it is missing much of the high-tech driver-assistance systems of the Pacifica.
For models with the available advanced safety technologies, the Chrysler Pacifica offers features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. With all these features, the Pacifica provides drivers with added confidence and added accident prevention, making it an excellent choice for those putting safety first.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Rearview Camera | Yes | Yes |
Blind-Spot Monitoring | No | Yes |
Lane Departure Warning | No | Yes |
Adaptive Cruise Control | No | Yes |
Automatic Emergency Braking | No | Yes |
Pricing
Pricing is one of the top determining differences between the 2024 Chrysler Voyager and Pacifica. The Voyager is far more economical and positioned well for cash-strapped families. It provides all the fundamentals of a minivan without luxury accouterments or advanced technology.
The Chrysler Pacifica is pricier but earns its keep with good fuel economy (in the hybrid version), available AWD, a better interior, and more of everything from tech to convenience features. Assuming budget is not an issue, the Pacifica brings you far more convenience, comfort, and safety — particularly if you have small children and priorities that extend beyond the short term.
Feature | Chrysler Voyager | Chrysler Pacifica |
Base Price | Lower | Higher |
Value for Budget Buyers | Excellent | Good |
Advanced Features & Technology | Limited | Extensive |
Long-Term Fuel Savings | N/A | Yes (Hybrid model) |
Final Thoughts
Whether the Chrysler Voyager or Chrysler Pacifica is a better fit depends on the buyer, as each has distinct advantages. The Voyager is a good choice for budget-minded families that need a solid, roomy, and practical minivan without any extra frills. It delivers strong performance, a comfy zoo interior, and an inexpensive panel price.
The difference is that the Pacifica is a more versatile and higher-end option, adding additional creature comforts, tech, and a hybrid version for better fuel mileage. With greater flexibility in seating, Stow ‘n Go storage, and superior infotainment features, the Pacifica is intended for those who prioritize convenience, comfort, and long-term savings.
The Final Verdict: Which Minivan Should You Buy?
Chrysler Voyager: Family Hauler On A Budget
For a reliable, spacious, and affordable minivan, the Chrysler Voyager is the ideal choice. It offers:
- The initial price is more affordable than the Pacifica.
- Proven 3.6L V6 engine reliability
- Reasonable fuel economy for city and highway.
However, it lacks:
- Not find all-wheel drive, so it’s not ideal for snowy areas.
- A mix, resulting in higher long-term fuel expenses.
The Chrysler Pacifica: The High-End, Accessory-Laden Minivan
The Chrysler Pacifica is the best choice for buyers, with extra features, better fuel economy, and AWD capability. It offers:
- A sustainable hybrid option that lowers fuel consumption by a lot.
- To a degree, the availability of AWD makes it ideal for harsh weather.
- Newer technology and comfort features
However, it comes with:
- A higher starting price.
- AWD and hybrid components mean more moving parts to maintain.
Who Should Choose Which?
Buyer Preference | Best Choice |
Budget-conscious buyers | Chrysler Voyager |
Best fuel efficiency | Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid |
Driving in snowy or rainy regions | Chrysler Pacifica (AWD) |
Advanced technology & luxury features | Chrysler Pacifica |
Ultimately, if price is your top factor, then the Voyager is the one to get. The Pacifica’s added hybrid technology and premium features are worth that extra investment if you want AWD.
When buying a Chrysler Pacifica, a reliable dealership is essential. You may easily obtain yours from Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago. Our Chrysler Pacifica Finance Center at CDJR provides reasonably priced leasing and financing options. Additionally, our team of professionals can help you find the most economical payment plans for both new and used Chrysler Pacifica.
Visit Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago to Learn More about the New Chrysler Pacifica
In addition to financing options, the CDJR of Chicago has an excellent Chrysler Pacifica service center. Chrysler vehicles are maintained and repaired at the center by our skilled and qualified specialists. From little tweaks to major repairs, Jeep of Chicago’s service department can handle all maintenance needs.
Additionally, we provide custom factory orders that enable Oak Park automobile purchasers to personalize their Chrysler Pacifica. It ensures that you’ll discover the perfect match for your specific customization needs.
Buy a New 2024 Chrysler Pacifica from Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago
We at Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago encourage you to chat with a member of our knowledgeable sales team if you’re in the Evanston area and would like to experience the Chrysler Pacifica.