By Gabrielle Sukich
A panel of judges, all of them automotive experts, at the International Auto Show chose the new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica to the receive the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year award. This is the second time in twenty-four years that the award went to an FCA US LLC minivan, the last time being in 1996. Over thirty years ago, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) US created the first minivan, and now has over 115 innovations under their belt. Chrysler's innovations even include the first plug-in hybrid electric minivan.
The Chrysler Pacifica redesign is all-around innovative on space, versatility, and function. There are over 100 safety and security features, including a 360 degree camera and a collision warning system. Aside from its safety features, it comes with U-connect Entertainment system, the largest system in its class. The Pacifica offers families the highest level of comfort and convenience. Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and Fiat, FCA - North America said, "When we first introduced the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica just one year ago, we believed that we had created the perfect formula for today's busy families …" The Pacifica is also available as a hybrid and has the capability of a range of 566 miles, and 84 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in electric only mode.
Overall it is no surprise that with this kind of superior quality, the Chrysler Pacifica made it to the most exclusive rank of its class.
"The North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards honor excellence in innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, driver satisfaction and value. Initiated in 1994, they are judged by about 60 professional automotive journalists from the United States and Canada who work for magazines, television, radio, newspapers and websites. They are the longest-running award not associated with a specific publication, a structure that produces a diverse base of jurors.
The Utility Vehicle of the Year award is new for 2017, reflecting the booming sales and growing diversity of vehicles ranging from rugged off-roaders to family hauling SUVs and minivans."
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