In a world dominated by crossovers and SUVs, minivans still have a place among families and small business owners. Comparing the Ford Transit Connect to the Chrysler Pacifica ends with the Ford minivan on top, with at least one reputable list ranking the Transit wagon above the Pacifica. So, what makes the Ford Transit Connect better?

The Ford Transit Connect ranks higher than the Chrysler Pacifica on J.D. Power’s Best Minivans list

According to J.D. Power, the 2022 Ford Transit Connect minivan ranks higher than the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica van in several key areas. Among the Transit Connect’s advantages are its lower price, configuration options, and superior fuel economy.

The Transit Connect is a better value than the Pacifica

With starting prices ranging from $29,365 for the Ford Transit Connect Commercial XL Cargo Van to $36,060 for the Transit Connect Commercial Titanium Passenger Wagon model, the nameplate undercuts Pacifica’s price by at least $7,000 and up to $19,000 at the highest trim level.

The XL Cargo Van features seating for two and rear cargo doors that swing out 180 degrees, rain-sensing front wipers, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, dual sliding side doors, and black molded-in-color bumpers and body-side-moldings.

The Titanium Passenger Wagon features seating for six with an option for seven-passenger seating, plus everything listed for the XL Cargo Van above except that the bumpers and body side moldings are molded-in-color, matching the exterior paint color. Additionally, the Titanium Passenger Wagon includes dual-zone front auto temperature control, rear-seat climate control with rear compartment air conditioning and heat with manual rear controls, a four-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel with satin chrome accents, and a blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert. 

All Transit Connect models use Ford’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Ford also includes “pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking,” side-wind stabilization, and hill start assist across the Transit lineup.

The 2022 Ford Transit Connect gets better fuel economy

The Transit Connect’s fuel economy ratings range from 24 mpg in the city and up to 28 mpg on the highway, compared to Pacifica’s ratings ranging from 17 mpg to 28 mpg. EcoMode and EcoCoach work with the engine’s auto start-stop technology to help economy-minded drivers achieve superior fuel economy. While the Transit’s powertrain provides less horsepower than the Pacifica, it has enough power to do its job and provides excellent fuel economy, especially around town.

Is the 2022 Ford Transit Connect minivan a good buy?

The 2022 Chrylser Pacifica is more luxurious than the Ford Transit Connect. However, you’ll pay extra for that luxury, and if your needs trend toward the more rugged, you may find that outdoor adventures or workday grime doesn’t pair well with “caramel Nappa leather-trimmed seats.” So yes, the Transit minivan is an exceptional value for those looking for a work van capable of hauling your product or tools around town and into the outlying areas. It’s also great for families likely to carry the fruits of their adventures into the car.