Although DaimlerChrysler could go a step or two further toward safety by making traction control and vehicle stability control available across the entire Pacifica line, it has done an excellent job of clustering together an extensive list of available comfort and convenience features. Of particular interest is the GPS-based navigation system, the screen of which resides in the centre of the gauge cluster tucked neatly into the arc of the speedometer. While convenient for the driver, this positioning is out of the passenger's line of sight, which doesn't help a co-pilot issue orders. Also, due to its smallish size, the screen is limited in its capacity to display graphics and supporting text.

The GPS-based navigation system resides in the centre of the gauge cluster tucked neatly into the arc of the speedometer. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

In addition to being loaded with all the trappings of automotive plentitude, my tester was furnished with a roof-mounted DVD entertainment system - something that has become a must for relieving the pressure posed by the oft-repeated, "are we there yet?" Additional trip enhancing provisions include the optional Infinity Intermezzo audio system with Digital 5.1 Surround Sound technology, dual-zone climate control, rear air conditioning, front and rear heated captains' chairs, power moonroof, power liftgate and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. A UConnect voice-activated hands-free communication system is also available along with a Vehicle Information Center and trip computer. But even in base form, the Pacifica is anything but Spartan.

The Pacifica is a great vehicle in a segment that is sure to gain significant ground in the coming years (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

In Canada, the Pacifica line is offered in three distinct trim levels beginning with the value-added Highline, followed up by the Touring edition and capped-off with the as- tested, fully-loaded Limited. The Highline is exclusively a front-wheel drive configuration, the Touring is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive formats and the Limited is exclusively all-wheel drive. In the U.S., the base Pacifica is available in either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive setups, as is the mid-level Touring rendition. As in Canada though, moving upscale to the Limited version requires the inclusion of all-wheel drive.