Chrysler Pacifica or Honda Odyssey? A Round-by-Round Minivan Matchup

Shopping for a minivan usually comes down to two names: the Chrysler Pacifica and the Honda Odyssey. Both haul kids, gear, and grandparents with ease, and on a spec sheet they look surprisingly similar. The real differences show up in how they handle winter roads, how their seats move, and what kind of powertrain you can choose. To make the decision easier, our team at Bettenhausen CDJR of Lockport put the two head-to-head in six rounds. Here’s how they compare.

Round 1: Engine and Performance

Under the hood, these two are nearly even. The Pacifica uses a 3.6-liter V6 rated at 287 horsepower, paired with a 9-speed automatic. The Odyssey runs a 3.5-liter V6 with 280 horsepower and a 10-speed automatic. Both make 262 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel economy is a tie as well, with both EPA-rated at 22 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive form. Either one will feel confident merging onto I-355 or cruising down I-80.

Verdict: A narrow edge to the Pacifica for its slightly higher horsepower.

Round 2: Winter Traction

This is where the gap opens up. The Pacifica offers available all-wheel drive, while the Odyssey comes with front-wheel drive only. When snow and ice settle over the southwest suburbs, AWD gives you extra grip pulling out of icy driveways in Homer Glen or heading down slick side streets in New Lenox.

All-wheel drive helps you get moving, but tires still matter. A set of winter tires and a quick pre-season check of your battery, wipers, and brakes go a long way when temperatures drop. If you already drive a Chrysler, our service team can handle that checkup before the first storm rolls in.

Verdict: Pacifica, clearly, for drivers who face real winters.

Round 3: Seating Flexibility

Pacifica Stow ‘n Go

Chrysler’s Stow ‘n Go system lets the second- and third-row seats fold flat into the floor. You can go from carrying a full family to hauling furniture without lifting a single seat out of the van.

Odyssey Magic Slide

Honda’s Magic Slide second-row seats move side to side, which makes it easier to reach the third row or give siblings a little more space. The Odyssey seats up to eight, but its second-row seats have to be physically removed to get maximum cargo room.

Verdict: Pacifica for convenience, Odyssey for side-to-side seat adjustments.

Round 4: Cargo Space and Towing

On cargo volume, it’s almost a draw:

• Behind the third row: Pacifica 32.3 cubic feet; Odyssey 32.8 cubic feet
• Behind the second row: Pacifica 87.5 cubic feet; Odyssey 86.6 cubic feet
• Behind the first row: Pacifica 140.5 cubic feet; Odyssey 140.7 cubic feet
• Max towing: Pacifica up to 3,600 pounds; Odyssey up to 3,500 pounds

The bigger difference is how quickly you can use that space. Folding the Pacifica’s seats into the floor takes seconds, which helps on weekend trips to a lake or a big run to the hardware store.

Verdict: Pacifica, thanks to easier access and slightly higher towing capacity.

Round 5: Technology and Family Features

• Pacifica: Standard 10.1-inch Uconnect touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Pacifica: Available FamCAM interior camera, rear-seat entertainment with built-in Amazon Fire TV, and the Stow ‘n Vac built-in vacuum
• Odyssey: 9-inch touchscreen and CabinTalk in-car PA system on every trim
• Odyssey: CabinWatch rear camera and a 12.8-inch rear entertainment screen on upper trims

Verdict: Close, with the Pacifica’s larger standard screen and built-in vacuum giving it the edge for everyday family life.

Round 6: Powertrain Choice

The Pacifica is the only one of the two offered as a plug-in hybrid. KBB lists the Pacifica Hybrid at up to 32 miles of all-electric range, which can cover many daily errands without using gas. The Odyssey is offered with a gas V6 only. Keep in mind that the Pacifica Hybrid uses a different second-row seating setup because of its battery.

Verdict: Pacifica, for families who want an electrified option.

The Final Scorecard

The Odyssey remains a solid minivan, especially if you want eight seats with side-sliding second-row chairs. But the Pacifica wins most rounds, thanks to available all-wheel drive, Stow ‘n Go seating, slightly higher towing capacity, and a plug-in hybrid option. Both earn praise for safety, and the Pacifica carries a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA along with standard automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

Explore trims and features on our Chrysler Pacifica page, or compare options in our certified pre-owned inventory. When you’re ready, start an online financing application and check your current vehicle’s worth with our Value Your Trade tool. Current Chrysler owners can keep their van in top shape by using our service scheduler.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest difference between the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey?

The biggest difference is traction. The Chrysler Pacifica offers available all-wheel drive, while the Honda Odyssey is front-wheel drive only. The Pacifica also offers Stow ‘n Go seats and a plug-in hybrid model.

Do the Pacifica and Odyssey get similar gas mileage?

Yes. Both minivans are EPA-rated at 22 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. The Pacifica Hybrid adds up to 32 miles of all-electric range, according to KBB.

Can I remove the seats in a Chrysler Pacifica?

You don’t need to. The Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go second- and third-row seats fold flat into the floor, creating a flat cargo area without removing any seats.

Which minivan can tow more?

The Chrysler Pacifica can tow up to 3,600 pounds when properly equipped, compared with up to 3,500 pounds for the Honda Odyssey.

Where can I test drive a Chrysler Pacifica in Lockport?

Visit Bettenhausen CDJR of Lockport at 16471 W. 159th St., Lockport, IL 60441, or call 815-524-0642. Drivers from Romeoville and across the southwest suburbs are welcome.

See the Pacifica for Yourself at Bettenhausen

Numbers only tell part of the story. Bring the whole family, fold the seats, load the cargo area, and see how the Pacifica fits your routine. Call 815-524-0642 or stop by our showroom on West 159th Street to schedule a test drive.