When the more potent mill is showing its stuff, expect to hear its stuff as well. Under light-duty operation, the 3.5-litre powerplant is suitably refined; however, when pushed hard, it is considerably and inexplicably raspier and less polished than a Honda or Toyota V6. Harshness aside, a smooth shifting four-speed autobox manages the engine's output with clean, predictable shifts that can be driver-induced with the use of the AutoStick manual-mode feature. When it comes to brushing away excess speed in a hurry, the Pacifica's four-wheel antilock discs are more than up to the task. They are easily modulated, and when applied rapidly, generate little nosedive as the big rig grinds quickly to a secure halt.

A smooth shifting four-speed autobox manages the engine's output with clean, predictable shifts. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Along with competent braking, DaimlerChrysler enhanced occupant safety with the installation of standard, multi-stage front airbags and occupant classification sensing. A driver's knee airbag is also standard protection fare. To further cushion undesirable blows, the Pacifica can be equipped with side-curtain airbags that span all three rows of seating.

DaimlerChrysler enhanced occupant safety with the installation of standard, multi-stage front airbags and occupant classification sensing. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Other safety provisions include 5-star crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for front and side impacts (when side-curtain airbags are present), the availability of DaimlerChrysler's ParkSense audible and visible back-up warning indicator and a tire-pressure monitoring system. Unfortunately, a vehicle stability program is not available on the Pacifica and traction control is only available on the front-wheel drive units equipped with the 250-horsepower engine.