20 MPG combined is the key number to understand when considering the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica AWD with the 3.6L V6. It’s not going to win any awards for less gas usage, but it’s a realistic figure for a spacious, all-wheel-drive minivan designed to haul families and their gear in comfort and safety. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for saving every drop of fuel; it’s a tool for a specific job, and its fuel economy reflects that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Pacifica AWD at 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure underscores the impact of stop-and-go traffic on a larger vehicle. The Pacifica’s weight and the inherent inefficiencies of urban driving affect mileage. However, the 25 MPG highway rating is respectable, with the 9-speed automatic transmission helping to optimize efficiency at higher speeds. The key is understanding that consistent highway driving will yield the best results, while frequent short trips around town will likely see figures closer to, or even below, the EPA’s city estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica AWD at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an average. Drivers who log more miles, particularly in city environments, or those who live in areas with higher fuel prices, will likely spend considerably more. Conversely, those who drive fewer miles or primarily stick to the highway might see lower annual fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors like driving style, weather conditions, terrain, and cargo weight all play a role. Aggressive acceleration and braking will negatively impact fuel economy. Heavily loaded vehicles will also see a decrease in MPG. Owners in hilly or mountainous regions might find it challenging to consistently achieve the EPA’s highway rating. However, families who prioritize smooth, consistent driving habits and minimize unnecessary cargo can likely get close to the official figures for the PACIFICA MPG across all years.

How it compares

The Pacifica AWD’s fuel economy is generally in line with its competitors. The Toyota Sienna, which is exclusively a hybrid, achieves a significantly better 36 MPG combined. However, the Sienna’s hybrid system adds complexity and a different driving experience that some minivan buyers might not prefer. Honda’s Odyssey, which does not offer AWD, achieves approximately 22 MPG combined in its non-AWD configuration. Comparing the Pacifica AWD to other AWD SUVs highlights the tradeoff buyers are making. A Kia Telluride AWD, for example, gets around 21 MPG combined. The Chrysler offers more cargo space and passenger comfort, at a similar mileage.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive driving habits. The Pacifica AWD is not a sports car, and its large engine consumes considerably more fuel when subjected to hard acceleration and braking. Maintaining a smooth, consistent speed is critical to maximizing fuel efficiency. Think ahead, anticipate traffic flow, and avoid unnecessary pedal inputs to conserve fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, found on the sticker inside your driver’s side door. Ensure your tires are also properly maintained (rotated, balanced) for consistent wear.

Minimize excess weight. The more weight your vehicle carries, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle, especially heavy objects. Don’t treat your minivan like a mobile storage unit; keep only what you need inside.

Plan your trips efficiently. Combine multiple errands into a single trip to reduce cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient. Consider the route with the least amount of stop-and-go traffic, even if it’s slightly longer. A steady highway cruise is more fuel-efficient than navigating congested city streets.

Take advantage of the Pacifica’s features. While it doesn’t have specific fuel-saving modes, understanding how your driving impacts the instantaneous MPG gauge can help you adjust your style for better efficiency. Monitor your driving habits and make small adjustments to maximize your mileage. You can find all Chrysler fuel economy data listed on our site.