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Previewed in addition to the all-new Chrysler Sebring at Chrysler’s “What’s Coming” event at their Chelsea Proving Grounds was an update for Chrysler‘s Pacifica, which is going into its fourth model year. Unlike the Sebring, VehicleVoice and AutoPacific were able to take the Pacifica for a quick spin around part of the DaimlerChrysler Proving Ground test track. The Pacifica update enhances the powertrain, tweaks exterior appearance and finesses the interior a bit, but, as true of most mid-cycle updates, does not provide a reason to buy where one had not already been.

New Engine Launches in Pacifica
The Pacifica sports a new 255HP 4.0L SOHC 24v V6 engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Compared with the outgoing 3.5L, horsepower is only up by about 5HP, but it brings 265 lb-ft of torque to the table and smoother power delivery with extra forward gear. The peak torque increase is 15 lb-ft, but it is available earlier and longer throughout the rev range. Though not simply a larger-bore version of the 3.5L V6, the 4.0L design was started with the 3.5L as a building block. This 4.0L will find its way into other Chrysler products down the road, including the updated minivan due for 2008MY. With the 2007MY, the base Pacifica sticks with the 200HP 3.8L V6, but the 4.0L is standard for most Pacifica trim levels.

Exterior changes are limited to hood, headlights, and grille. The headlights take on a more sculpted look, the lower portion of the front bumper is revised and the grille was tweaked. The hood is one of three new 2007MY hoods to take on Crossfire-inspired strakes, including Sebring and the all-new, Dodge Durango-based Aspen.
Interior updates include making the new easy-clean YES fabric available and adding more standard safety equipment. All-row side curtain airbags, ESP, and traction control are now standard, and a rear backup camera is a new option.