America’s once favorite family hauler, the minivan, is now considered archaic and has been replaced with the SUV.
The latter is supposed to say to others that its driver is an adventurer, whereas the former is nowadays could replace “less exciting than watching wall paint dry” in common perception.
Chrysler is sticking to its guns and still flies the minivan banner. Kind of ironic given the number of Jeeps it sells, but logical in trying to lead this segment it effectively created three decades ago.
This doesn’t mean it is oblivious to the image associated with the Town & Country nameplate. That’s why the 2017 model has been renamed the Pacifica, consigning the long-serving moniker to history books. Definitely not a case of slapping on a new badge, though, as this is an all-new car that’s seriously lighter, more rigid and much more attractive, design-wise, than its predecessor. It also comes with a hybrid powertrain, a first in the class it seeks to redefine.
In spite of its modern underpinnings, the brand is promoting the “Real Life” moto that emphasizes real human interaction and activities instead of a virtual and disconnected experience.
Consumer Reports has nabbed one to perform yet one of its customary reviews that have seen many a marketing team’s efforts shattered to pieces no matter how elaborate.
Is the 2017 Pacifica able to set new standards in people carriers and be a piece de resistance against the SUV onslaught? Here’s what CR has to say about that.