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The 2008 Chrysler Pacifica happens to be the last year of production in its only
four-year run. Its discontinuation raises questions that ask if the MSRP was too
high or if people purchasing vehicles of a similar design are more interested in
eco-friendly hybrids. While much has not changed since the 2007 production, the
Pacifica still offers an alternative to the soccer moms minivan or out of vogue
station wagon. Even though Chrysler has decided to stop production of the
Pacifica, Chrysler's brother company Dodge is picking up the slack with the
Journey, a similarly-styled crossover vehicle.
For the moms that want to look cool, but still want the versatility of the SUV
and the safety features of a minivan, the Pacifica fits the bill. The elegant
exterior design is reminiscent of high-end luxury sedans. However, the broad
wheelbase can compete with the big boys' SUVs. All-season tires and available
19-inch aluminum wheels further put the Pacifica in the newest category, the CUV
(Crossover Utility Vehicle). An available power liftgate gives drivers
hands-free access to rear storage, a much appreciated addition for those
constantly carrying armloads of groceries or sports equipment.
The interior upholstery comes in a variety of fabrics, and boasts rich wood
accents that certainly add to the refined appearance of the interior. The
Touring and Limited trims offer 79.5 cubic feet of cargo space with a cargo net
and rear step to easier reach the farthest grocery sack or hockey stick. And
just as the high-end vehicles claim to block out exterior noise, the Pacifica
has implemented noise and vibration reduction.
The 2008 Pacifica has more infotainment than technological advancements. SIRIUS
satellite radio is available for an extra installment and subscription fee. A
rear seat DVD player can be installed for an additional fee as well. The Limited
and Touring offer a UConnect phone system that connects the driver's Bluetooth
enabled phone to the system in the CUV. An out of the ordinary addition is a GPS
navigation system built directly into the dash cluster under the speedometer,
rather than in the center of dash above the stereo.
Although the Pacifica does not come standard with many of the luxury features,
it gives buyers a significant number of options to customize the perfect
Pacifica for them. Available is either a 4.0-liter V6 engine or a 3.8L. One
standard feature is the AutoStick that allows the driver to have the ease of an
automatic with the power of a manual. Safety features abound in this last-year
model. All-wheel drive is available for extra traction during wet or slick
conditions. The CUV has also earned the highest crash test rating in front and
side crash tests. While it also comes standard with front and side airbags, a
newer addition is the knee-blocking airbag for the driver to prevent knee injury
from the dash. Also, a rear back-up camera can be installed in the dash cluster
to prevent running over objects located in the driver's blind spot. |
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