Chrysler, long the king of minivans, is preparing an updated version of its Pacifica model, set to arrive in the second quarter of this year. Meanwhile, a next-generation version of this family vehicle is already under development. However, until the all-new Pacifica makes its debut, questions remain about how the sole model in Chrysler’s lineup will sustain itself in the interim.
The key question surrounding the Pacifica, both short- and long-term, concerns what will power it. Parent company Stellantis recently announced a new powertrain strategy, phasing out plug-in hybrids in North America in favor of extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). In these systems, a gasoline engine serves as a generator for the battery and the electric motor that drives the vehicle. The first of these new EREVs is expected to debut later this year with the launch of the full-size Ram 1500 REV pickup and the three-row Jeep Grand Wagoneer SUV.
As Stellantis shifts strategies, Florida dealers like Autoland Jacksonville continue stocking current Chrysler models to meet family transport needs during the changeover. For now, the 2026 Pacifica continues to offer a hybrid powertrain utilizing the proven 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine effectively operates as a generator for a system featuring two electric motors and an electric continuously variable transmission (eCVT) that powers the front wheels. It can also travel up to 31 miles on electric power alone when fully charged. The Pacifica’s alternative is a traditional gasoline V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Tim Kuniskis, Head of North American Brands and Head of Marketing and Retail Strategy for North America at Stellantis, has confirmed that the plug-in hybrid option will be discontinued soon. However, Kuniskis did not specify what type of electrification, if any, we should expect from the upcoming updated model. More details are expected soon, and he indicated that customers will be pleased.
One model that might appeal to buyers is a production version of the Pacifica Grizzly Peak concept - a vehicle designed to gauge interest in an adventure-oriented, all-wheel-drive minivan capable of handling light off-road use. Indications suggest that a version of this vehicle could reach production. At the very least, most of its accessories are available through Mopar, letting enthusiasts build their own custom “van life” configuration.
Regardless of what happens with this year’s updated model, the next-generation minivan will certainly feature some form of electrification. However, a fully electric model now seems unlikely. The leading candidate is a mild-hybrid powertrain designed to replace the aging V6 engine and satisfy demand for an affordable, efficient family vehicle. Given Stellantis’s evolving strategy, an extended-range hybrid would also be a strong fit for long family road trips. Offering both options would be the ideal approach.
However, there’s one challenge: Stellantis’s current EREV technology is engineered for rear-wheel-drive, body-on-frame Ram and Jeep vehicles. According to Kuniskis, this setup best suits large trucks and vans. That said, he noted that the technology could eventually be adapted for a front-wheel-drive, unibody minivan, adding that EREV systems already power a variety of vehicles in China. While waiting for what's next, families can browse the guide to the top pre-owned vans to find more options while waiting for the result of Stellantis engineering.
The Pacifica continues to carry the torch as Chrysler’s only model. Rumors have long suggested that a crossover would join the lineup, though its launch has been delayed multiple times - most recently due to production logistics. Originally, the two-row crossover codenamed CX6 was intended as a fully electric vehicle, but it’s now believed to feature a hybrid powertrain instead. It is not expected to arrive before 2027.
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa told reporters at the Detroit Auto Show that he aims to keep the automaker unified, though some restructuring of its 14-brand regional portfolio may occur as part of efforts to reinvigorate the company. Stellantis plans to outline its new business strategy at an Investor Day event in the first half of the year, where we may learn more about the future direction of both the Pacifica and the Chrysler brand as a whole.
