A twist of the key instantly gave life to Chrysler's long-lived workhorse, the 3.5-L (214-cu in), 24-valve, SOHC V6 with multi-port fuel injection. In one form or another, this engine has been powering Chrysler

Chrysler's long-lived workhorse, the 3.5-L (214-cu in), 24-valve, SOHC V6, powers the Pacifica. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

products for more years than perhaps it should have - and its age is beginning to show. Within normal driving parameters the amply sized V6 moves the 2,033 kg (4,482 lb) bulk of the Pacifica with little objection. In doing so, however, it emits a little less engine refinement than would be expected given the Pacifica's near-premium price-range and Mercedes-Benz backing. To many owners the significance of this issue may not be an issue at all. Unfortunately for me, I am a stickler about engine refinement, believing that if some manufacturers can get it right they all should. The limitations of the 3.5-liter V6 become more apparent when the driver sinks his right foot into the throttle. The Pacifica's 250 horsepower and matching torque is insufficient to propel this "Sport Tourer" well into the "sport" category, but the combination

The Pacifica's 250 horsepower and matching torque is insufficient to propel this "Sport Tourer" well into the "sport" category. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

of its engine and 4-speed automatic transmission impart a sluggish feeling on hills and when passing - although nowhere near as sluggish as the 168-horsepower, 5-cylinder Volvo XC90 I recently tested. The Pacifica has power sufficient to reside in the minivan realm, but insufficient power to reside in the premium crossover SUV class. If Chrysler added another cog to the 4-speed autobox and gleaned a few more ponies from the V6 it would go along way to giving the label "Sport Tourer" acceptable credibility. The 4-gears do a laudable job with what they have to work with in the way of twisting force, with up and down shifts occurring on cue and with the precision typical of most domestic manufactured gearboxes.