The Pacifica may not shine where thrust is concerned, but many of its other facets shine brightly. First and foremost once underway is its deliciously smooth ride.

The Pacifica bends over backwards to treat its passengers to a comfortable ride. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Chrysler has again applied the "Sport" nomenclature rather loosely. The Pacifica bends over backwards to treat its passengers to a comfortable ride, and in doing so the "sport" element is pretty much removed from the equation. In spite of offering little "sport," the Pacifica suspension offers plenty of passenger-soothing actuation. The ride control dynamics of the Pacifica are more in-line with a large sedan. Bumps and irregularities are heavily damped hardly rocking the boat, unless crater-sized or encountered amid aggressive cornering. The Pacifica is set upon a fully independent coil spring suspension front and rear. Augmenting at the front are gas-charged shock absorbers, a stabilizer bar and urethane jounce bumpers. The rear is aided by a stabilizer bar and gas-charged, self-leveling shock absorbers. Chrysler has taken extra care to ensure these components are mounted upon a

While the Pacifica is better than most minivans when it comes to handling, it's still no sports car. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

rigid chassis structure. In addition to providing integral solidity, the chassis and body structure of the Pacifica have contributed to its five-star frontal and side impact protection crash ratings received from the U.S. government. Even with a suspension setup described as "performance" by Chrysler, the Pacifica does not hide its weight or bulk when thrust into a corner. Yes, it's better than most minivans and some SUVs as well when it comes to a writhing road, but it's no sports car. In a heavily laden state, expect a comfortable ride but wagon-like handling. Nonetheless, without spending many more hard-earned greenbacks, one is not likely to find transportation for six adults that can eclipse the Pacifica's level of comfort and handling.