The Pacifica is the last of Chrysler’s once vast lineup, and it’s easy to see why. Buyers love the practical, relatively affordable minivan, and the fuel economy benefits of its plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, trim make it all the more enticing. That’s doubly true given its current $7,500 federal EV tax credit eligibility, which unfortunately comes to a close this month.
The Pacifica PHEV Is No Longer Eligible For The $7,500 Tax Credit
In addition to the $7,500 federal clean vehicle tax credit, buyers can get another $5,250 off thanks to Chrysler’s Make This The Summer event. If you’re leasing, Chrysler is also offering another promotion: 0% APR for 72 months or a $399 per month lease over 39 months with $3,729 due at signing on the van’s entry-level Select trim. That starts at $51,055 MSRP, and with the tax credit, you’re undercutting much of the three-row SUV market, to say nothing of the Pacifica’s impressive cargo capacity.
The Pacifica PHEV Is An Excellent SUV Alternative
The Pacifica is due for an update soon, but for now, it’s still a decent alternative to three-row favorites like the Kia Telluride thanks to its PHEV trim and the wealth of standard features included with it. The PHEV lineup starts at $53,050. PHEV models offer some solid electric range, with around 32 miles of battery-only driving available. It’s enough to get most around-town errands done without ever needing the gasoline engine.
Regardless of powertrain, the van’s Stow ‘n Go rear seats net an incredible amount of cargo space for large items like furniture. Lots of minivans offer third rows that fold into the cargo area; only Chrysler offers that fold-flat capability for its second-row seats. In addition to its practical interior, the Pacifica is a pretty comfortable van among competitors, offering a solid ride and good handling. We’ll be sad to see the Pacifica PHEV lose its tax credit status, as the value proposition held by the van helped offset its now aged sheetmetal.
About the author
Chase Bierenkoven
Senior Editor, Autoblog