Chrysler is making minivans cool again with a 2.5-inch lift and meaty 31-inch tires
- Chrysler has taken the wraps off the rugged Pacifica Grizzly Peak concept.
- It hints at a possible rugged trim to battle the Toyota Sienna Woodland Edition.
- The concept features auxiliary lights, a lifted suspension, and 31-inch tires.
Crossovers helped to kill the minivan, so perhaps it’s not surprising that the few remaining survivors have become more like SUVs. That trend has been happening for decades, and the best example is the Toyota Sienna Woodland Edition, which features all-wheel drive and a lifted suspension.
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Chrysler is now entering the fray with the all-new Pacifica Grizzly Peak concept. It’s one of the coolest vans in years and will celebrate its debut at Overland Expo Mountain West in Loveland, Colorado.
Built for the trail
Designed to appeal to the overlanding and van-life crowd, the Pacifica has been given a lifted suspension that raises the vehicle 2.75 inches (70 mm) front and 2.5 inches (64 mm) rear. However, the van is more notable for riding on 18-inch wheels wrapped in 31-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires.
While engineers nailed the stance, designers didn’t drop the ball as they gave the model a two-tone exterior that features Arktos matte paint and a protective lower wrap that mimics cladding. It’s also worth noting that the team created a cool grizzly bear badge and didn’t embarrass themselves with a glorified sticker.
Functional upgrades
Rounding out the exterior awesomeness is a Rhino-Rack Pioneer platform that has been outfitted with auxiliary lights and a retractable awning from ARB. They’re joined by a full-size spare tire and recovery boards. Last but not least, there are Mopar mud flaps and yellow fog lights from Baja Designs.
The concept is based on the upscale Pacifica Limited and features an eye-catching interior with two-tone Katzkin leather seats sporting orange piping. The latter theme extends to the seat belts, contrast stitching, and sport steering wheel.
Space with a purpose
Since the minivan was designed for providing overnight accommodations, the third-row seats have been removed and replaced by a large cargo floor panel. It provides a flat surface for sleeping as well as storage space for camping essentials.
Elsewhere, there’s a 115-volt outlet, stackable totes, and all-weather floor mats. They’re joined by additional tie-downs and a roadside first-aid kit.
Power is provided by a familiar 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that develops 287 hp (214 kW) and 262 lb-ft (355 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system.
What about a production version?
Chrysler hasn’t confirmed whether the Grizzly Peak will evolve into a production model. Still, the idea carries weight, especially considering Chrysler showrooms are down to a single core product, since the Voyager and Pacifica are essentially the same van. A ruggedized option could inject some much-needed variety into the lineup while broadening its appeal beyond typical family buyers.