Source: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

CHICAGO – Claiming to have the most standard and overall safety features of any minivan and the return of available all-wheel drive (AWD), Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) introduced the redesigned 2021 Chrysler Pacifica at this week’s Chicago International Automobile Show.

This newest minivan, from the company, which pioneered the minivan segment in 1984, features 97 standard safety and security features, 14 of which are new for 2021 like the pedestrian automatic emergency braking (PAEB) system. An additional 19 safety and security items like the front and rear park assist which uses ultrasonic sensors, including having the ability to stop the vehicle when reversing and an obstacle is detected.

Other standard safety systems include forward collision warning; lane-departure and lane-keep-assist; adaptive cruise control; new LED headlights, and advanced brake assist.

According to FCA, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica has the most advanced AWD system in its class (the Toyota Sienna is the only other minivan offering AWD). If wheels lose traction on ice or snow, Pacifica’s AWD system automatically activates the transfer of all available engine torque to the wheels with more traction.

The power transfer unit and rear drive module automatically disconnect when AWD is not required, stopping the drive shaft from spinning — a class-exclusive feature that reduces driveline drag and improves efficiency.

And, unlike an earlier generation of Chrysler minivans, this year’s AWD version maintains the company’s unique Stow ‘n Go seating, which allows either or both of the middle-row seats to be collapsed into the floor for additional cargo space. (The third row can also be collapsed if necessary.)

Two powertrains are offered in the 2021 Pacifica: a 3.6-liter V6 driving through a nine-speed automatic transmission or a gas-electric hybrid (which does not offer the AWD option).

All the new features mentioned as well as many others (like available vacuum cleaner; 360-degree, birds-eye exterior camera, and FamCam interior camera allowing parents in the front seats to monitor what’s going on in the rear two rows via the 10.5-inch color touch screen) are wrapped in a more squared-off package which maintains all of the people-and-cargo friendly space traditionally a part of Chrysler minivans.

The complete FCA announcement can be read by clicking on this sentence.