22 MPG combined might not sound impressive, but for the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica with its standard 3.6L V6, it’s a reasonable balance between passenger space, practicality, and fuel consumption. This isn’t a vehicle designed for solo commutes; it’s built to haul families and their cargo in comfort and safety, and the fuel economy reflects that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Pacifica V6 gets 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Pacifica’s weight and non-hybrid powertrain are most noticeable. However, the 28 MPG highway rating shows how well the nine-speed automatic transmission optimizes engine RPM at higher speeds. This allows the Pacifica to cruise efficiently on long road trips, which is a key consideration for families who frequently travel.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica V6 is $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Individual costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. While $2,000 isn’t insignificant, it provides a benchmark for comparing the Pacifica’s running costs against other vehicles in its class. It’s a predictable expense to factor into the overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who frequently encounter heavy traffic, drive aggressively, or carry heavy loads will likely see lower MPG figures. On the other hand, those who accelerate smoothly, maintain consistent speeds on the highway, and minimize cargo weight may achieve results closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and weather conditions also play a role. Monitoring fuel consumption over time provides the most accurate idea of what to expect from the Pacifica in daily driving.

How it compares

In the minivan segment, the Pacifica’s 22 MPG combined figure puts it in the middle of the pack when compared to purely gasoline-powered options. The Honda Odyssey achieves a slightly higher 22 MPG combined with its V6 engine. The Toyota Sienna, exclusively offered as a hybrid, boasts a far superior 36 MPG combined. Of course, the Sienna’s hybrid powertrain comes at a higher initial cost. For buyers wanting better fuel economy , the Sienna is the clear choice. However, those seeking a lower initial price and a more traditional driving experience might find the Pacifica’s tradeoff acceptable. Also remember you can review PACIFICA MPG across all years. It’s helpful to understand that data when making a purchase decision.

Within the broader three-row SUV segment, many offerings fall within a similar fuel economy range. The Kia Telluride, with its V6 engine, gets around 21 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer with its standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine also achieves around 24 MPG combined. Buyers cross-shopping minivans and SUVs need to weigh the Pacifica’s superior passenger and cargo space against the potentially better fuel economy of certain SUVs. The Pacifica V6 is average, while the (more expensive) Pacifica Hybrid and other hybrid minivans offer an advantage.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the Pacifica’s size and weight, smooth and gradual acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. The 3.6L V6 performs best when driven with a light foot; avoid using its full power unless necessary.

The nine-speed automatic transmission is designed to select the most efficient gear for the driving conditions. Let the transmission do its job and avoid manually shifting unless needed. Using cruise control on the highway helps maintain a consistent speed and can improve fuel economy. Deactivate cruise control when driving in hilly terrain, as it can sometimes lead to excessive downshifting and reduced efficiency.

Proper tire inflation is important for both safety and fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Use low rolling resistance tires when it’s time for replacement, potentially yielding small gains. Review all Chrysler fuel economy data to study trends across their model range.

Finally, minimize unnecessary weight inside the vehicle. Remove any items you don’t need for your daily commute or road trip. Excess weight puts extra strain on the engine, which reduces fuel economy. Roofing racks or cargo carriers can significantly increase aerodynamic drag and hurt fuel consumption, especially at highway speeds.