Top Vehicles for Wyoming’s Weather and Terrain

Top Vehicles for Wyoming’s Weather and Terrain

Wyoming’s majestic landscapes offer a unique blend of beauty and challenge. With weather conditions that can change rapidly and terrain ranging from the high plains to the steep Rocky Mountains, the right vehicle isn’t just a choice—it’s a necessity. At Fremont Motors, we understand that Wyoming drivers need vehicles that are as versatile and resilient as they are. Let’s dive into some of the top picks from our range, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Ford, Toyota, Volkswagen, Chevrolet, and GMC, that are perfectly suited for Wyoming’s diverse driving conditions.

Why Vehicle Choice Matters in Wyoming

In Wyoming, your vehicle is more than just a mode of transport; it’s your partner in navigating the varying weather and landscapes. Whether you’re dealing with icy roads, rough trails, or long stretches of highway, the right vehicle ensures safety, comfort, and reliability.


Best Vehicles for Snowy and Icy Conditions

Jeep Grand Cherokee – The Winter Warrior

A new model Jeep Grand Cherokee driving on a dirt road with a mountain backdrop. The scenery should reflect a typical Wyoming landscape

When the Wyoming winter hits with its full force, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stands as a beacon of reliability. Known for its exceptional off-road capabilities, the Grand Cherokee offers a variety of 4×4 systems, such as the Quadra-Trac II® and the Quadra-Drive® II, which provide excellent traction on icy and snowy roads. The Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System allows you to adjust the vehicle’s performance to suit the driving conditions, be it snow, mud, or sand. The advanced safety features, including Forward Collision Warning and LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning, add an extra layer of protection for those unpredictable winter roads.

Under the hood, the Grand Cherokee boasts a range of engine options, from the efficient 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine to the powerful 5.7L HEMI® V8, ensuring that whether you’re navigating city streets or mountain passes, you have the power and capability you need.

Ford F-150 – Built Tough for Wyoming Winters

The Ford F-150’s reputation for strength and resilience makes it a perfect fit for Wyoming’s challenging winter conditions. Its Intelligent 4WD System ensures excellent handling and traction on snow-covered roads. The high ground clearance and robust build allow you to traverse snowy terrain confidently. The Ford F-150 doesn’t just excel in performance; it also provides the comfort and technology to make your winter journeys enjoyable. The available heated seats and dual-zone automatic climate control keep you warm, while advanced infotainment systems keep you connected.

Equipped with EcoBoost® engines, the F-150 balances power with efficiency, ensuring that you get the performance you need without compromising on fuel economy. Whether towing a trailer or heading out for a family adventure, the F-150’s impressive towing capacity and payload ensure you can carry all your winter gear with ease.

Toyota Tacoma – The Midsize Pickup for Snowy Adventures

For those who prefer a midsize pickup, the Toyota Tacoma is a standout choice. Its off-road capabilities are legendary, making it a reliable companion for navigating through deep snow and icy terrains. The Crawl Control feature regulates the throttle and brakes on five low-speed settings, allowing you to focus on navigating through challenging terrains. The Multi-terrain Select system offers various modes to tackle different surfaces, ensuring optimal traction and control.

The Tacoma also shines in safety, featuring Toyota Safety Sense™ P, a suite of advanced active safety systems designed to keep you safe on slippery roads. The Tacoma’s range of engines, including the efficient four-cylinder and the more powerful V6, offers a balance of power and fuel economy, making it a practical and dependable choice for Wyoming drivers.

The interior of the Tacoma is designed with comfort in mind, making long drives in harsh weather more bearable. With its advanced navigation systems and connectivity features, you can stay on course and in touch, no matter where your Wyoming adventures take you.


Best Vehicles for Rugged Terrain

Ram 1500 – The Luxury Meets Ruggedness

When it comes to handling Wyoming’s rugged terrain, the Ram 1500 stands out with its perfect blend of luxury and functionality. The Active-Level™ Four Corner Air Suspension ensures a smooth ride, even on the most challenging trails. The 4×4 capabilities of the Ram 1500, coupled with its robust build, make it an ideal vehicle for both off-road adventures and daily commutes.

Under the hood, the Ram 1500 offers a range of engine options, including the legendary HEMI® V8, renowned for its power and durability. The towing capabilities of the Ram 1500 are equally impressive, allowing you to haul everything you need for your outdoor excursions.

Chevrolet Colorado – Versatility and Power

The Chevrolet Colorado is the perfect choice for those who need a versatile and powerful truck that can handle both the everyday and the extreme. Its durable build and ZR2 off-road package make it well-suited for navigating Wyoming’s varied terrain. The Colorado is not just about toughness; it’s also about smart technology, offering advanced features that enhance both driving experience and safety.

The engine options for the Colorado, including the efficient V6 and the powerful diesel option, provide the right balance of power and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re heading to a remote campsite or cruising through the city, the Colorado adapts to your needs seamlessly.

GMC Sierra – Advanced Features for Challenging Terrains

The GMC Sierra is a testament to strength and innovation. Its Traction Select System allows drivers to adjust the truck’s performance to different surfaces and conditions, making it ideal for Wyoming’s ever-changing landscape. The ProGrade™ Trailering system adds to its versatility, making towing both easier and safer.

The Sierra’s range of powerful engines is designed to deliver exceptional performance, whether you’re climbing steep grades or navigating rough trails. The combination of strength, advanced features, and luxurious design make the Sierra a top choice for drivers who demand the best in both performance and comfort.


Best Family-Friendly Vehicles for Wyoming’s Varied Climates

Volkswagen Atlas – Spacious and Safe for the Family

For families in Wyoming, the Volkswagen Atlas stands out as a spacious and safe SUV. Its 4MOTION® all-wheel drive provides excellent stability and traction in all weather conditions, while the spacious interior ensures comfort for the whole family on long journeys. The Atlas is equipped with advanced safety features, offering peace of mind on every trip.

The performance of the Atlas is impressive, offering a smooth ride in both urban and off-road settings. Its blend of space, safety, and versatility makes it an ideal choice for Wyoming families looking for a reliable and comfortable vehicle.

Chrysler Pacifica – The Ultimate Family Minivan

The Chrysler Pacifica redefines what a family minivan can be. With its all-wheel-drive system, it’s ready to take on Wyoming’s diverse weather conditions, while the Uconnect® system provides endless entertainment and navigation options. The Pacifica is not just about functionality; it’s also about luxury, offering a comfortable and stylish interior for both drivers and passengers.

The ride quality of the Pacifica is unmatched, providing a smooth and efficient journey, no matter the destination. Its efficiency and comfort make it the perfect vehicle for family road trips and daily commutes alike.

The Pacifica’s efficiency extends beyond its fuel economy. Its advanced driver-assistance features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitoring, offer an extra layer of safety, especially on Wyoming’s unpredictable roads. For families who value both comfort and safety, the Pacifica stands as an unmatched choice.


Adventure-Ready SUVs for Wyoming Explorers

Jeep Wrangler – The Iconic Off-Roader

For those who view every drive as an adventure, the Jeep Wrangler is the ultimate companion. Its legendary 4×4 capabilities and robust design make it ideal for exploring Wyoming’s off-beaten paths and rugged landscapes. The Wrangler isn’t just about off-road capabilities; it’s also about embracing the outdoor lifestyle, with features like the removable roof and doors, which allow you to fully immerse yourself in Wyoming’s natural beauty.

Underneath its rugged exterior, the Wrangler offers a range of engine options, including the efficient EcoDiesel, providing the power and torque necessary for challenging terrains while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency.

Ford Bronco – The Reborn Legend

The Ford Bronco has made a triumphant return, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite for Wyoming adventurers. Its terrain management system, G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain), allows drivers to optimize the vehicle’s performance for various landscapes, from rocky trails to muddy paths. The Bronco’s design is both functional and eye-catching, with a modern take on its classic aesthetic.

The interior of the Bronco combines ruggedness with comfort, offering advanced technology and connectivity features. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend adventure or tackling daily errands, the Bronco delivers an exciting and dependable driving experience.

Toyota 4Runner – The Dependable Trailblazer

The Toyota 4Runner’s reputation for durability makes it a top pick for Wyoming drivers who need a vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and adventurous escapades. Its body-on-frame construction and proven off-road technologies, like the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select, ensure it can conquer even the most challenging terrains.

The 4Runner’s spacious interior offers plenty of room for passengers and gear, making it ideal for family trips or outdoor adventures. With its combination of rugged capabilities and everyday practicality, the 4Runner is a vehicle that truly understands the Wyoming way of life.


Performance Meets Practicality – Sedans for Wyoming

Volkswagen Jetta – The Efficient Performer

In a state where distances can be vast, the Volkswagen Jetta stands out for its fuel efficiency and smooth performance. Ideal for daily commuting in Wyoming, the Jetta offers a comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and a sleek design. Its turbocharged engine delivers both power and efficiency, ensuring a pleasurable driving experience.

Inside, the Jetta is equipped with the latest technology, including a digital cockpit and smartphone connectivity, allowing drivers to stay connected and entertained on the go.

Dodge Charger – The Muscle Car Experience

For those who crave power and presence on the road, the Dodge Charger is a perfect choice. Its bold design and powerful engine options, including the renowned HEMI® V8, make it a standout on Wyoming roads. The Charger isn’t just about raw power; it’s also about smart technology, with features like the Uconnect® infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Whether cruising through the city or hitting the open road, the Charger offers an exhilarating driving experience that’s hard to match.

Chevrolet Malibu – The Stylish and Spacious Sedan

The Chevrolet Malibu offers a blend of style, space, and performance that’s well-suited for Wyoming’s diverse driving needs. Its elegant design, spacious interior, and efficient performance make it a great choice for families and professionals alike. The Malibu’s range of safety features, including Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking, provide added peace of mind.

Under the hood, the Malibu’s engines offer a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it an excellent sedan for both city driving and longer road trips.


The Road Ahead – Embracing Wyoming’s Future with Eco-Friendly Choices

Ford Mustang Mach-E – The Electric Revolution

Embracing the future of automotive technology, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is a game-changer for eco-conscious drivers in Wyoming. This all-electric SUV combines the legendary performance of the Mustang with the efficiency and innovation of electric power. Its impressive range and fast charging capabilities make it perfect for long drives across Wyoming’s scenic routes. The Mustang Mach-E’s interior is a haven of advanced technology and comfort, making every journey both exciting and eco-friendly.

Chevrolet Bolt EV – The Compact Electric Powerhouse

The Chevrolet Bolt EV breaks all stereotypes about electric vehicles with its surprising range and lively performance. Ideal for daily commutes and city driving, the Bolt EV is both practical and fun to drive. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver, while its spacious interior ensures you don’t have to compromise on comfort. With its efficient electric motor, the Bolt EV stands as a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to sustainable driving solutions.

Toyota Prius – The Hybrid Pioneer

The Toyota Prius has long been synonymous with hybrid technology, and it continues to be a top choice for drivers seeking a balance between efficiency and practicality. In Wyoming, where diverse driving conditions are the norm, the Prius shines with its reliable performance and excellent fuel economy. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and smooth ride make it a great vehicle for families and environmentally conscious drivers alike.


Wrapping Up

Wyoming’s unique landscape calls for vehicles that are as versatile and resilient as its people. At Fremont Motors, we’re proud to offer a diverse selection of vehicles that meet the needs of every Wyoming driver. From rugged trucks and adventure-ready SUVs to efficient sedans and innovative electric vehicles, our lineup is designed to handle everything Wyoming has to offer.

We invite you to experience these exceptional vehicles firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle to tackle the snowy mountains, a dependable family SUV, or an eco-friendly ride for your daily commute, Fremont Motors has the perfect match for your lifestyle and needs. Visit us to explore our selection, and let us help you find the vehicle that will be your companion on the roads of Wyoming.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the best vehicles for Wyoming’s weather and terrain. We look forward to welcoming you to the Fremont Motors family and helping you embark on your next great adventure.

Jeff is the E-Commerce Director for the Fremont Motor Companies based out of Lander, Wyoming. Other than that, there is literally nothing remarkable about him.

2019 Jeep Renegade 1.3L Turbo Review

2019 Jeep Renegade 1.3L Turbo Review

2019 Jeep Renegade 1.3L Turbo Review

A subcompact crossover/SUV, the Jeep Renegade is the smallest of the Jeep family, but this little car holds it own. In fact, the Jeep Renegade is the 9th most popular vehicle in the rugged lands of Wyoming. I got to test drive the Renegade 1.3L turbo.
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2019 Ram 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon Serious Off-Road on a Budget

2019 Ram 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon Serious Off-Road on a Budget

2019 RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon, Lander, Wyoming. Photo: L Baures

Power Wagon

Typically the Power Wagon is a trim level all on its own, but there is also an option to purchase a base level trim (a Tradesman) and add a Power Wagon package: RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon.

This makes the heavy-duty Power Wagon a little more reachable to get all those extreme off-road features without having to break the bank….too much. If you can live without the luxury details and interior swankiness but still want the off-road capability, and Tradesman design, it cuts the price down by around $5k.

Tradesman 2500 Power Wagon
2019 RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon has a new winch design. Lander, WY. Photo: L Baures.

For 2019, RAM heavy-duty pickups are almost a completely new truck. New exterior panels and a revamped interior give the truck a refreshed look.

New for the Power Wagon part in 2019 model years is a change in the winch material and setup. It goes from a steel winch cable to a synthetic cable and a new fairlead design. This reduces weight by 28lbs and synthetic cable cannot kink.

Features on the Power Wagon package include;

  • Articulink Suspension
  • Front/Rear Bilstein Shocks (Power Wagon tuned)
  • Hill-descent Control
  • Tru-Lok front & rear axles
  • 4.10 axle ratio
  • Tow hooks
  • Fuel Tank Skid Plate
  • Transfer Case
  • Skid Plate
  • Front electric 12,000-lb. winch
  • Black wheel flares,
  • Power Wagon design
  • Fog lamps
  • Bright chrome front and rear bumper
  • Front disconnecting stabilizer bar
  • 17-in. X 8.0-in. cast-aluminum Power Wagon Wheel LT285/70R17D OWL Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac All-terrain Tires
  • Wheel well liners, rear
  • Factory lift

An 8-Speed rotary dial transmission is also new for 2019, allowing more freedom around the steering wheel.

2019 RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon Review

Off-Road

You’re probably not reading this unless you’re interested in the off-road part, so I’ll to cut straight to it.

Approach and departure angles ( 29.4/26 degrees) on this truck along with 14.2″ of ground clearance make climbing and descending steep slopes a breeze.

With a disconnecting sway bar, traversing over rocks or uneven surfaces doesn’t seem to phase the truck. See previous Power Wagon review for examples.

Front and rear lockers are there for slippery conditions, hill descent control for engine braking and if your buddy gets stuck, winch them out.

2019 RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon Wyoming
2019 RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon. Photo: L Baures

There isn’t much that can stop a Power Wagon when it comes to off-road except maybe a gas station. I know this from having put 20k miles on a 2017 Power Wagon including some extreme back county in Wyoming.

I’ll tell you exactly what it took to get stuck…5′ of snow with nothing to winch to. I’d have been very surprised if any other factory vehicle would have even made that far in the first place, but I like to test the limits.

The Goodyear Duratrac tires are good in most conditions, although they do make a droning noise on the highway as like most off-road tires.

RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon Interior

Because the Tradesman is the base model, they are about as basic as they come, although the test model I had did have a few upgrades.

Typically a Tradesman trim level is a work truck that comes with vinyl flooring and seat coverings. For an off-road truck, vinyl flooring isn’t quite such a bad idea.

My test vehicle did have the upgrade to carpet and cloth seats as part of the Tradesman Level 2 Equipment Group. (Also in that group is floor mats, power sliding rear window, rear window defroster, chrome interior door handles and a Sirius XM 1 year subscription).

Talking of seats, this is probably my one biggest complaint, which you won’t have to worry about if you’re over 5’3″. With no power seats or height adjustment, I couldn’t see over the hood. Perhaps next time I’ll use a booster seat.

Stop laughing, yeh I know. It’s still nice to be a little higher than the rest of the traffic though.

Equipped with 3 USB ports, one in the center console and 2 up front, you can plug your phone in to charge and/or listen to music through the decent 6-speaker sound system. Bluetooth is also standard.

“Meep meep, move out of my way, big red truck coming through”

Fuel economy

Not the Power Wagons strongest trait and it’s not the reason you’d buy this truck for. A 6.4L HEMI combined with a heavy truck and 4.10 rear axle ratio is not the formula for fuel economy. From the 20k miles on the 2017 Power Wagon, it would get up to 14 mpg on the highway. 2019 models with the new transmission returned 15 mpg combined city and highway driving for me, so it is a little better.

Can you use a RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon as a family vehicle?

Yes.

The tricky part here is that because the truck is 1-already higher being it’s a 3/4 ton, 2- it also has a 1″ factory lift. It’s high of the ground, which is what you want, having that extra ground clearance for off-road. Getting kids in and out of the cab requires a little extra muscle/reach. As I explained before I’m 5’3″ and I can manage this no problem with younger children. With babies in a car seat that has to be lifted into a base this may present more a challenge, but for toddlers and older it’s easier.

The toddler loves it because he can see out the windows, he thinks he’s in a monster truck and the 1st grader likes the challenge of climbing in and jumping out.

 

2019 RAM 2500 Tradesman Power Wagon Overview

The most capable off-road heavy-duty truck on the market. A Tradesman with the Power Wagon package doesn’t change that, it’s a no-frills truck that’s a serious off-roader.

Prices start around the $50k mark at MSRP. before rebates on the Tradesman 2500 Power Wagon.

Contact your local RAM Trucks dealer for more info or take one for a drive.

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Review, Ultimate Kid-Friendly Road Trip Car

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Review, Ultimate Kid-Friendly Road Trip Car

Here are my thoughts on the 7 seat 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited after testing it for a week, around Casper Wyoming.

America’s first-ever hybrid minivan gives us the option of three trim levels; Touring Plus, Touring L and top of the line Limited. I tested the Limited trim level.

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Review in Casper, WY

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited. Photo: L Baures.

I’ll be covering the following topics on the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid; Safety, Performance, Appearance, Comfort, Convenience, Space, Economy, and Technology.

Safety

Although there are no reports specifically on the hybrid model of the Pacifica, reports from the NHTSA show the non-hybrid versions with a 5-star overall safety rating.

Standard safety features on the Pacifica include; Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Park Sense rear park assist, rear backup camera, and vehicle tracking is optional across all trims.

Screen shot from NHTSA showing 5 star safety rating for Chrysler Pacifica 2017, 2018 and 2019.

An Advanced SafetyTec Group is available as a package option on Limited trim levels, which has all the latest safety technology. Forward Collision Warning-Plus, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Lane Departure Warning-Plus, Surround View Camera, Park Sense Front and Rear Assist with stop, Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Blind Spot Monitoring, Brake Assist, and auto high beam headlamp control are all in the package.

Adaptive Cruise Control makes life easy on the highway.

Adaptive Cruise Control on the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is very responsive, and it really takes some of the stress away with highway driving.

Just one of the reasons this car is the ultimate kid-friendly road trip car.

Setting the ACC on the Pacifica is easy, with steering wheel mounted buttons, set the cruise speed and distance gap, the car pretty much does the rest. It will automatically slow down if there’s a slower moving vehicle in front.

Upon changing lanes to pass a slower moving car, the ACC system will speed back up to cruising speed. Should the vehicle in front come to a complete stop, so will the Pacifica.

LaneSense with Lane Departure Warning-Plus

I’ve driven quite a few cars already with various stages of a lane keep or lane detection systems, but none like the Pacifica. The level of steering input from the Pacifica is the most I have experienced.

LaneSense with Lane Departure Warning-Plus detects clearly visible lane markings and will actively steer the vehicle back into the lane when the system is active.

It also knows if your hands aren’t on the steering wheel and will prompt a message on the driver display.

Through the touchscreen, the system is customizable, with the ability to change the sensitivity and how early or late you want the warnings/intervention from the car.

Performance

As far as performance and handling go, the Chrysler Pacifica was pleasant to drive with plenty of get-up-and-go. Being a plug-in hybrid electric, it has plenty of torque from the battery on initial start and benefits from a mid-range kick from the 3.6L V-6. Merging onto an 80mph highway is a breeze.

Suspension is on the medium to hard side by mini van standards and this makes for a well handling comfortable ride.

One of our errands in the car meant stocking up on a few 5 gal. water jugs (we live in the country with hard water). I didn’t notice any obvious change in handling or to the suspension.

Appearance

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Chysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited with S Appearance Package. Photo: L Baures.

I had the S Appearance Package on the test vehicle, which is a $795 option. Adding some black badging, color matching door handles and mirrors give the Pacifica a more sporty and sleek looking exterior. Also in the package are 18″ black wheels and a roof rack.

Comfort

Another reason the Chrysler Pacifica is the ultimate kid-friendly road trip vehicle, I can’t fault the car when it comes to comfort. Fitting my diametrically opposing size family of myself at 5’3″, husband at 6’4″ and the kids is easy in the Pacifica.

Power adjustable driver and passenger seats mean options are plentiful. Driver seating positions are ideal without being too close to the steering wheel (for a short person) and vice versa for a tall person.

The lumbar support on the driver side is also power-adjustable adding plenty of support.

Hybrid models seat up to 7 people with captains chairs as standard in the 2nd row. Non-hybrid models have an 8 seat option.

Hubby can stretch his legs out in the front seat not having the seat all the way back! He even sat in the 3rd row and reclined the seat like he was royalty or something.

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited interior.

Heated and ventilated front seats are standard on the Limited trim.

If the outside temperature is above 80F the ventilated seat on the driver side will automatically turn on on startup or remote start.

This definitely makes a hug difference with dark leather (lighter interior also available).

During the winter the same happens for the heated driver side seat and steering wheel at 40F or below.

Convenience

Yet another reason the Pacifica is so child-friendly, car seats are very easy to install.

No watching the kids throw open the back door only to discover a giant door ding on the neighboring vehicle with this car. No more getting out to open the door to make sure THAT doesn’t happen and no more whining from the back seat “mommy I can’t reach the door to close it.”

With the lower ride hide of the car, my 5-year-old and fresh 3-year-old are both able to open, get in, and close the sliding doors themselves.

YES!!!

This may seem trivial, but as a parent when you’re running around the vehicle opening and closing the doors 8 times a day (each kid twice in the morning and each kid twice in the evening) this is great.

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

This means the kids have an extra 2 minutes in the morning to put their shoes on the right feet [insert roll eyes emoji] and I might just make it on time.

The sliding doors can also be opened remotely from the keyfob [Insert sigh of relief] or by the kick-to-open action available on some trims.

Auto Advance ‘n Return is a system new and allows the seats to move with a push of a button for easy entry to the 2nd row.

Space

3rd row Stow and go seats fold flat for extra cargo space.

Cargo area with 3rd row up is 32.3 cu.ft.
Cargo space with 3rd row down, and 2nd row not folded.
Headroom40.1″
Headroom (sunroof)38.4″
Legroom41.1″
Shoulder room63.8
Hip room59.0″
Seat travel8.7″
Recline angle range58 degrees
2nd-row leg room39.0″
3rd-row leg room36.5″
MAX cargo room behind 1st row140.5 cu.ft.
MAX cargo room behind 2nd row87.5 cu.ft.
MAX cargo room behind 3rd row32.3 cu.ft.
Lots of little cubby holes. This one happens to be a great fit for a camera!
2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

Economy

As a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the Chrysler Pacifica has a range of over 500 miles, with 30 of those in battery only. It can achieve the equivalent of 80 MPGe in all-electric mode. Combined engine and battery, the EPA rates it at 30 mpg.

Charging

Plug type for charging is the standard J1772.

I plugged in the Pacifica at Fremont Motors level 2 charging station. There are two types of charge available. A 120V, 15 AMP Level 1 charge or high voltage 240V, 30 or 32 AMP level 2 charge.

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
J1772 Level 2 Charger in Casper, Wyoming.

Level 2 charging takes around 2 hours.

A level 1 charge is plugging the vehicle into a wall receptacle via a portable chord that comes with the vehicle. Charging level 1 takes approx 14 hours.

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Amused by the charging lights on the dash.

Battery charging is also done via regenerative braking.

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid regenerative brakes charging battery 54kw
Battery charging via regenerative breaking.

Chrysler says the battery is expected to last the life of the vehicle.

Technology and Entertainment

This is where the Pacifica Hybrid really shines.

Optional on the Touring Plus and Touring L trims (for $2,395) or standard on the Limited trim is the Uconnect Theater with Wireless Streaming system.

Consisting of 10″ seatback touchscreens (on the 2nd row), the kids were entertained for hours and hours.

Whether it was watching a movie or playing the built-in games, the only time they asked for anything was to change the movie. Games/apps are playable whilst the vehicle is in motion and includes classics such as tic-tac-toe, are we there yet and the license plate game.

Playing games in the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

This package also includes; 115-volt auxiliary power outlet, wireless headphones, video remote controls, HDMI inputs, third-row USB charge port, two USB ports, Blu-ray/DVD player and a 220-amp alternator.

Standard on the Limited trim, is an 8.4″ UConnect touchscreen, with navigation, Apple Car Play/Android Auto, SiriusXM and more. It’s simple and intuitive use with apps that load quickly.

Sirius XM Travel Link Weather Map display on 8.4" UConnect touchscreen Chrysler Pacifica.
Sirius XM Travel Link Weather Map

There’s enough tech in there to keep the front seat passenger occupied.

There’s a Pacifica Wave!

We passed a Velvet Red new-ish looking Chrysler Pacifica, and right as I said to myself, “I wonder if there’s a Pacifica wave…”, as I eagerly awaited to see if they’d wave first. I got, not a little wave, but a giant wave! It’s official, there IS a Pacifica wave.

Overall thoughts on the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited.

A Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Limited is ultimately a very kid-friendly vehicle. Not only is it easy for cars seats, with 5.1″ of ground clearance, it’s easy to get in and out of and keeps the kids entertained.

My only complaint on the Pacifica is the rotary shifter dial is in fairly close proximity to the volume dial and I almost reached for the wrong one a couple of times.

Perfect for a road trip with the kids, it’s easy to drive especially with Adaptive Cruise Control, it’s comfortable and being a hybrid has good fuel economy.

For winter in this hybrid minivan, I’d recommend a good seat of tires for the rocky mountain area.

When the kids turn 16 they can drive us around while we sit in the back, watch movies and play games!

2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
It would be rude not to take a picture at the Soccer fields. #SoccerMomCar. Photo: L Baures.

 

All opinions are my own. If you have any further questions on the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, contact your preferred Chrysler dealership or if you have a question for me, drop a comment below.