Chrysler Pacifica

Importing a used Chrysler Pacifica from the USA

The Chrysler Pacifica is the American minivan that makes the strongest case for import. It offers a genuinely spacious, seven- or eight-seat interior, the clever Stow 'n Go seating system that no European van quite matches, and either a smooth Pentastar V6 or a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. One point deserves care from the outset: the Pacifica is assembled in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, not in the United States. That matters for customs, because the preferential 0% EU rate is tied to provable US origin. On a Canadian-built Pacifica, the applicable duty depends on the documented plant, so we assess each car's origin honestly rather than assuming a rate. As an independent broker, USCar Trader sources these vans, verifies the paperwork, and manages the move to Germany with no dealer margin.

Model history: years and generations

The current Pacifica launched for the 2017 model year, replacing the Town & Country and reviving the Pacifica name as Chrysler's flagship minivan. A significant refresh arrived for 2021, bringing a new front end, an updated Uconnect 5 infotainment system and, importantly, the option of all-wheel drive on the petrol V6. The plug-in hybrid, first offered for 2017, continued as a front-drive-only model throughout. A cheaper, more basic sibling called the Voyager covers fleet and value buyers. For import, the 2021-and-later cars are the sweet spot thanks to their tech, AWD availability and cleaner styling.

Engines, transmissions and drive

The mainstream Pacifica uses the familiar 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with 287 hp and 262 lb-ft, driving through a nine-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available from 2020 onward, a rarity among minivans and a real advantage in German winters. The Pacifica Hybrid is a proper plug-in: a 3.6-litre Atkinson-cycle V6 works with two electric motors and a 16 kWh battery through an eCVT for roughly 260 hp combined and about 32 miles (around 51 km) of electric-only range. The hybrid is front-drive only, and its battery packaging means it loses the second-row Stow 'n Go, a trade-off worth understanding before you buy.

Equipment lines and body styles

The Pacifica is a single long-wheelbase minivan body offered in Touring, Touring L, Limited and the top-tier Pinnacle, the latter adding quilted leather, second-row lounge cushions and premium trim. S Appearance packages darken the exterior brightwork. Seating is seven or eight depending on second-row configuration. For European use, Limited and Pinnacle cars with the full suite of screens and safety systems are the most rewarding, while Touring L offers strong value.

The US used market

Supply is healthy. The Pacifica has sold steadily since 2017, so clean family-owned examples between roughly 30,000 and 90,000 miles are common, and southern states offer rust-free vans. Hybrids are more concentrated in California and other incentive markets. Look for one- or two-owner histories with complete service records, and treat very high-mileage rideshare or fleet vans with extra caution.

Is an import right for you?

The Pacifica suits large families and anyone who wants American-style space, comfort and flexible seating that European MPVs no longer offer at the same scale. The available all-wheel drive broadens its appeal for German conditions, and the plug-in hybrid is a compelling choice for those who mostly cover shorter daily distances and can charge at home.

Specs at a glance

Common issues buyers should know

The Pacifica is broadly dependable but has a few known weak points worth checking. The nine-speed automatic drew early complaints for rough or hesitant shifts, largely improved by software updates, so confirm the latest calibration. On all-wheel-drive cars, the power transfer unit and rear driveline deserve inspection for leaks and noise. The plug-in hybrids were subject to a recall over a fire risk while parked and charging; verify that any hybrid you consider has the recall remedy completed. Auto stop-start and the electronic sliding doors and tailgate are occasional trouble spots, so test every powered door and the liftgate. Overall Chrysler Pacifica reliability is acceptable for the class provided you buy a serviced example and confirm outstanding recalls are closed.

Differences from the European version

US Pacificas show mph, run amber front indicators, lack a rear fog lamp and use US radio bands. The infotainment is fully featured but set to US defaults. A qualified workshop resolves the lighting and rear fog lamp and documents the speedometer for German approval. The van's size is generous by European standards, so factor parking and garage dimensions into your decision.

Import step by step

Selection: we shortlist Pacifica petrol or hybrid vans to your needs. VIN and origin check: we document the plant of manufacture so the customs classification reflects the true origin. Escrow: funds are held securely until the van is verified. Ocean freight: the vehicle ships by container or RoRo on a direct route to a North German port. Customs clearance: import duty and 19% import VAT are declared and paid. TÜV and individual approval (Einzelabnahme): a test centre inspects and certifies the van. Registration: with approval and documents complete, you plate and register it.

Customs and taxes: what applies

Bottom line: what matters is the factory shown by the VIN – proven US origin unlocks 0% duty. The 19% import VAT always applies.

We always state the two charges separately and honestly. The EU import duty depends on documented origin: the 0% preferential rate under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 (valid 1 July 2026 to 31 December 2029, with direct transport) applies only where US origin is proven from the VIN and plant. Because the Pacifica is built in Windsor, Canada, a given van may not qualify as US origin, and we never promise "duty-free" treatment. The German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) of 19% always applies on the customs value regardless of origin. USCar Trader adds no margin on the vehicle; you pay the purchase price plus transparent duties, freight and service.

Modifications and single-vehicle approval

Typical work includes adding or activating a rear fog lamp, confirming compliant lighting, and documenting the odometer and speedometer in metric units. On the hybrid, the high-voltage system documentation should be complete for the test centre. Once the Einzelabnahme is issued, you obtain the registration papers.

What to verify before buying

Common questions

Where is the Chrysler Pacifica built?

In Windsor, Ontario, Canada. This affects customs, because the 0% EU duty depends on provable US origin, which a Canadian-built van may not have.

Does the 0% import duty apply to a Pacifica?

Only if US origin is documented from the VIN and plant. As the Pacifica is Canadian-built, we assess each case individually and never guarantee duty-free treatment.

Is import VAT still charged?

Yes. The 19% German import VAT always applies on the customs value, separately from any duty.

What is Stow 'n Go seating?

A system that folds the second- and third-row seats flat into the floor. Note that the plug-in hybrid loses second-row Stow 'n Go due to its battery.

Petrol or hybrid, which should I import?

The V6 offers optional AWD and full Stow 'n Go; the plug-in hybrid suits short daily trips with home charging but is front-drive only.

How reliable is the Pacifica?

Generally solid if serviced. Check the transmission software, powered doors and, on hybrids, that recalls are closed.

Does it have all-wheel drive?

Yes, on petrol V6 models from 2020 onward.

Is USCar Trader a dealer?

No. We are an independent broker and take no margin on the vehicle.

Begin your search: see Chrysler in the Carhub, compare related people-movers like the Honda Odyssey, the Kia Carnival and the Chrysler Voyager, or view current Pacifica listings.