22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica with the 3.6L V6, it’s an acceptable trade-off for the abundant space, versatile seating, and overall utility that minivans readily provide. This isn’t a vehicle purchased by enthusiasts chasing ultimate fuel efficiency; it’s a family hauler, a mobile command center for busy lives, and a comfortable long-distance cruiser. Buyers accept the fuel consumption because the Pacifica delivers what they need, and does it with a surprising dose of style and refinement.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The real-world relevance of these numbers depends heavily on driving style, load, and terrain. In stop-and-go city driving, expect the Pacifica’s fuel consumption to hover around the stated 19 MPG, perhaps dipping slightly lower during periods of heavy congestion or with a fully loaded vehicle. The nine-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and eager to upshift for efficiency, but it can sometimes feel busy in urban environments. Out on the open road, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 28 MPG highway estimate is entirely feasible, especially when using cruise control and maintaining a steady speed. The Pacifica’s aerodynamic profile helps it maintain efficiency at higher speeds. The Pacifica’s engine provides adequate power for merging and overtaking, even when loaded with passengers and cargo, without requiring excessive throttle input that would negatively impact fuel economy. Browse PACIFICA MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica 3.6L V6. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The actual cost will vary depending on individual driving habits and local fuel prices. For families who frequently embark on long road trips or live in areas with higher gas prices, the annual fuel expenditure could exceed this estimate. Those who primarily use the Pacifica for shorter trips and practice fuel-efficient driving techniques may find their annual fuel costs slightly lower. This is merely an estimate, but it serves as a useful benchmark for comparing the Pacifica’s running costs to those of other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing methodology, real-world fuel economy often deviates from the official figures. The Pacifica is no exception. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, vehicle load, and even tire pressure can all influence fuel consumption. Owners report a wide range of MPG figures, with some consistently achieving near the EPA estimates, while others experience lower numbers, particularly in predominantly city driving. The key to maximizing fuel efficiency in the Pacifica lies in adopting a smooth and consistent driving style, avoiding harsh acceleration and braking, and ensuring that the vehicle is properly maintained. Keep your eye on all all Chrysler fuel economy data.

How it compares

The minivan segment isn’t exactly known for earth-shattering fuel efficiency, but it’s useful to see where the Pacifica stacks up. The Honda Odyssey, another perennial favorite, achieves a similar 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway, mirroring the Pacifica’s figures. The Toyota Sienna, while offering the option of all-wheel drive (which reduces fuel economy), posts EPA ratings of 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Kia Carnival, a more recent entrant, boasts comparable numbers in some trims, making the field relatively level. For minivan buyers, the choice often comes down to factors other than fuel economy alone, such as features, styling, and brand preference. The Pacifica Hybrid is the fuel economy champion, offering greatly increased efficiency at a price premium. Choosing between gasoline models may come down to other factors than a point or two in MPG, for non-hybrid buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Pacifica’s nine-speed automatic transmission is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. Avoid aggressive acceleration, which forces the transmission to downshift prematurely, increasing fuel consumption. Instead, strive for smooth and gradual acceleration to allow the transmission to shift up to higher gears quickly.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is critical for optimizing fuel economy. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which are typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Excess weight in the vehicle reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area to lighten the load. Every extra pound adds up, especially in a vehicle the size of the Pacifica. Declutter your minivan to improve fuel economy.

Cruise control can be an effective tool for maintaining a consistent speed on the highway, which can improve fuel efficiency. Be mindful of hilly terrain. On steep inclines, the cruise control may cause the transmission to downshift to maintain speed, negating some of the efficiency gains.