The Chrysler Pacifica, although a relatively new nameplate, has a long-standing lineage that can be traced back to the iconic Plymouth Voyager, which is widely recognized as the model that established the modern minivan. To commemorate the Chrysler Pacifica 40 Years of People Moving, Chrysler has introduced a few minor updates for the 2024 Pacifica.
The changes for the 2024 model primarily consist of new paint options and interior colors. Red Hot and Baltic Gray have been added to the color palette, and customers who opt for the top-tier Pacifica Pinnacle can select a new interior color called Sepia. Furthermore, Chrysler has streamlined the Plug-In Hybrid lineup, offering two models named Select and Pinnacle. For the base Select trim, buyers can also choose from optional packages such as S Appearance, Premium S Appearance, and Road Tripper.
The most notable update for 2024 is a minor yet crucial one. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system now includes an Emergency Vehicle Alert System (EVAS), which alerts the driver if it detects the presence of an active fire truck, ambulance, or any other nearby roadway hazards, according to Chrysler.
Four Decades of Moving Families and Belongings
The inaugural Voyager, produced by Plymouth at the Windsor plant in Canada on November 2, 1983, marked the beginning of a new era. Introduced as a 1984 model, it is widely regarded as the first modern minivan by automotive historians. While the concept of a family-oriented box-shaped vehicle was not entirely novel (prototypes like the 1930s Stout Scarab, the original Volkswagen Bus from 1950, the Fiat 600 Multipla launched in 1956, and the Renault Espace unveiled around the same time as the Voyager all catered to this market demand), it was Chrysler Corporation’s interpretation of a minivan that made a lasting impact.
The original Voyager was also sold under the Dodge Caravan (1984) and Chrysler Town & Country (1990) nameplates. These three models distinguished themselves with unique characteristics that set them apart from other vans on the market. Features like car-derived platforms (as opposed to bulky commercial vehicle platforms commonly used by competitors), front-wheel-drive, and sliding doors for easy cabin access contributed to their success. While the Stow ‘N Go seats were not introduced until the 2004 model year, early Chrysler vans featured removable rear seats that were perfect for weekend trips to the hardware store.
Decline of the Station Wagon
Although SUVs and crossovers are often blamed for the decline of the station wagon, one could argue that the minivan was the real catalyst for this transition. Chrysler’s competitors quickly recognized the potential of this market segment. In response, Chevrolet and GMC launched the Astro and Safari models, respectively, in 1985, while Ford debuted the Aerostar in 1986. The Japanese automakers took longer to join the minivan market, with Toyota introducing the unique Previa in 1990, featuring a mid-mounted engine. Honda’s Odyssey arrived in 1994, but it was not until the second-generation model, produced in North America and released in 1999, that sliding rear doors became a common feature.
In 1984, the base Voyager had a starting price of $8,280, equivalent to approximately $24,500 in 2023. This model was powered by a carbureted 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 90 horsepower, which was sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. By comparison, the 2024 Pacifica, priced at $40,020, is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
It just goes to show that if you keep at something, you will do well at it just as the Chrysler Pacifica has 40 Years of People Moving.