Chrysler at Chicago Auto Show: Refreshed 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Offers All-Wheel Drive

Snow Belt parents, rejoice. There’s one more minivan on the market with all-wheel drive.

The refreshed 2021 Chrysler Pacifica now offers an AWD system that can redirect power away from any wheel that’s lost traction. The system also disconnects when not needed, reducing driveline drag and improving efficiency.

Meanwhile, the Pacifica’s front grille, headlamps, fog lamps, and taillamps are given an updated look. There will be four flavors available: Touring, Touring L, Limited, and a new range-topping trim dubbed Pinnacle. AWD will be available with all trims. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid powertrain remains an option. A limited Launch Edition trim will be available late in the second quarter of 2020, though the rest of the lineup hits the market in the fourth quarter.

Remarkably, the AWD hardware won’t kill the available Stow N’ Go seating system. However, the AWD system doesn’t appear to be available on hybrid models.

Chrysler is touting the number of safety features available on the van – roughly 100 – including new ones like LED lights and Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking. A new interior camera will be available to allow drivers to keep tabs on occupants. Other available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with full stop, and lane-departure warning.

Meanwhile, the van will be the first application for Chrysler’s UConnect 5 infotainment system. The upgraded system offers faster-charging USB Type-C ports and up to 12 USB Type-A and Type-C ports combined.

Powertrains and the available S appearance package carry over, though there are new wheel choices on offer, with sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches. Other available new features include new option packages, wireless charging, and 10-inch subwoofer.

[Images: Fiat Chrysler]