Prices start at $43,395 for a front-wheel drive version and $45,995 for all-wheel drive, a sophisticated set up that offers tremendous traction at low or high speeds in foul weather conditions. And it isn't hard to get carried away behind the wheel either. The Mercedes-Benz derived 5-link rear suspension geometry is ultra smooth yet as tenacious as full-size SUVs come. Maybe that's also because it's not a traditional sport utility, but then again what is anymore. Out on the curving highways of Southern California the Pacifica was magical, dancing around tight corners at double posted speeds and miraculously recovering from purposely forced driver's errors with ease. Most owners won't push their vehicles to the limits I tested the Pacifica, so rest assured it will maneuver with poise when called upon, especially important if attempting to avoid an accident in progress.

Within the limits of sensible driving manners the powertrain rewards input with reasonably quick acceleration and ample passing ability too. The Pacifica is heavier than the 300M sedan that shares its 250-hp 3.5-L V6, so it obviously doesn't react with the same jump. Floor the throttle and the gears kick down quickly and smoothly, but the V6 can be a bit noisy in the upper rev ranges. Fortunately the engine produces substantial torque, at 250 lb-ft, and if left in the lower to mid rev ranges where most people drive, pulls quite nicely.