The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid gets 32 MPG combined, which is great. It’s a full-size minivan made for families, so reasonable gas mileage is a big plus. This is a vehicle bought by parents prioritizing space, comfort, and practicality, and the hybrid powertrain doesn’t compromise any of that while lowering their gas consumption, which is a huge draw to potential buyers.

City and highway performance

The 2017 Pacifica Hybrid performs well in city driving, matching its combined 32 MPG rating with 32 MPG estimated for city driving. Stop-and-go traffic is where the electric motor works best, offering quiet acceleration and energy recapture through regenerative braking. On the highway, the Pacifica Hybrid gets 33 MPG, showing it can maintain efficient cruising speeds. Owners will see the best fuel economy on local roads, where the electric powertrain can operate more frequently and effectively.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid will cost $1,350 per year in fuel. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, split roughly 55% city and 45% highway, using the national average fuel price for regular grade gasoline at the time of testing. Your actual fuel cost will vary based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how often you charge the battery, but $1,350 is a good benchmark and a considerable reduction from the gasoline-only models.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, drivers will see some variation in actual fuel economy. The Pacifica Hybrid’s mileage is heavily influenced by driving style and charging habits. People who frequently charge and use the electric-only range can easily exceed 32 MPG, particularly on shorter trips.

However, drivers who rarely plug in and rely mostly on the gasoline engine will likely see figures closer to that of the non-hybrid Pacifica. Cold weather can also negatively impact battery performance and overall fuel economy, and aggressive driving will deplete the electric range more quickly, forcing the gasoline engine to take over sooner.

How it compares

The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is almost alone in its class. No other minivan offers a plug-in hybrid configuration. The non-hybrid Honda Odyssey typically achieves around 22 MPG combined, and the Toyota Sienna has an EPA-estimated 21 MPG. These established minivans offer familiar attributes, but offer less efficiency than the Pacifica Hybrid. For buyers prioritizing fuel economy along with minivan practicality, the Pacifica Hybrid is a unique choice.

Buyers focused solely on maximum space might consider larger SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban, but its 17 MPG combined is much worse than the Pacifica’s 32 MPG rating. Browse all Chrysler fuel economy data to understand the Pacifica Hybrid within the brand’s broader lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Frequent charging is the most effective way to maximize fuel economy in the Pacifica Hybrid. The longer you drive in electric mode, the less you will rely on the gasoline engine, resulting in fuel savings. Use Level 2 charging stations when available for faster charging times and keep the vehicle plugged in overnight to ensure a full battery each morning.

Gentle acceleration and braking are important. The Pacifica Hybrid is equipped with regenerative braking, which converts kinetic energy back into electricity to recharge the battery. Smooth, gradual deceleration allows the system to capture more energy and extend the electric range, but stomping on the gas rapidly depletes charge. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary hard braking to increase efficiency.

Use the Pacifica Hybrid’s driving modes and settings. Selecting “Electric” mode prioritizes electric-only operation as long as there is sufficient battery charge. “Auto” mode blends electric and gasoline power for optimal efficiency. Try these modes to find the balance that suits your driving style and route, and don’t leave it in “Sport” unless you really want that extra punch.

Reduce unnecessary cargo. The heavier the vehicle, the more energy it takes to move it. Remove any items you don’t need from the van to reduce weight and improve fuel economy. Small weight reductions can make a noticeable difference over time, especially when combined with other efficiency-enhancing techniques. And check PACIFICA MPG across all years.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. This simple maintenance task can contribute to both improved fuel economy and tire longevity.