Are you in the market for a new minivan in 2022? With modern models, minivans provide everything an SUV does, plus more. Once you get past the stigma behind labeling them “mom cars,” you’ll find comfortable, upscale, roomy vehicles with plenty to love. However, one always has to be behind the others. Consumer Reports has the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica in last place; how did that happen?

Consumer Reports rated four minivans

In the minivan segment, Consumer Reports reviewed four different models. These include the Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Kia Carnival. The top three models all have the same or very similar overall scores. Besides the Pacifica, you really can’t go wrong with each of these models.

However, after the top three minivans, ranked from 78 to 79 out of 100, there’s Chrysler’s offering. CR gave the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica a 57 overall, putting it in last place by far. Why is the Pacifica the worst minivan?

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica isn’t reliable

Firstly, Consumer Reports gave the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica an abysmal 1 out of 5 rating for predicted reliability. Predicted reliability is based on previous model years, which are nearly identical to the current model. Pacifica owners have experienced transmission, drive system, power equipment, electronics, and even some engine problems in the last four years alone. As a result, most wouldn’t repurchase the model, and the predicted reliability is inferior.

Reliability is instantly a reason to buy or refrain from purchasing any vehicle. In the minivan segment, none are exceptionally reliable. However, each of the three other models is more reliable than Chrysler’s offering. For example, the top-ranked Kia Carnival is brand new for 2022, so the reliability is unknown. However, using Kia’s past reliability with other similarly-sized models, CR gave it a 3 out of 5 for predicted reliability.

Poor fuel economy with a less refined engine

Compared to other minivans, the Chrysler Pacifica has poor fuel economy. In a segment filled with hybrids, it’s challenging to keep up with excellent gas mileage. As a result, the Kia Carnival and Chrysler Pacifica average 21 mpg combined, placing them in last. Contrarily, the class-leading Toyota Sienna averages 36 combined mpg, far above the competition.

Next, CR noted that the Pacifica engine isn’t as refined as its rivals. To be more specific, it’s very noisy when accelerating for an on-ramp or climbing up a hill. Moreover, the hybrid version is quieter but will emit a roar when using the engine’s full power. Finally, the plug-in hybrid variant experiences a slight bump when the transition from electric to gas occurs.

Pacifica Stow ‘n Go seating and cargo are lost with hybrid

One of Consumer Reports’ favorite Chrysler Pacifica features is the Stow ‘n Go seating and cargo. This exclusive feature makes it easy for owners to create room to haul tons of cargo inside the minivan. Just fold the seats into the big storage cubbies hidden inside the floor. In other minivans, you’ll have to completely pull the heavy second-row seats out of the vehicle. Unfortunately, as a result, the third-row seats aren’t as comfortable as in other minivans.

If you’re buying a 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid model, Stow ‘n Go is unavailable. Owners get two removable seats with extra padding, making them more comfortable. However, the lack of such an excellent storage feature in the more fuel-efficient model is undoubtedly a downside. On top of that, the hybrid version only seats seven instead of eight.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica is in last place for minivans

The minivan segment isn’t crowded like many others. Only four automakers still sell minivans, and each one is an excellent choice overall. Surprisingly, the top three are nearly tied in Consumer Reports rankings overall. However, one model, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica, falls short in several ways. A lack of reliability, poor fuel economy, a less refined engine, and no Stow ‘n Go in the hybrid are fundamental reasons why the Pacifica is in last place.