The Chrysler Pacifica is an excellent all-purpose vehicle. It can fill just about any roll, but it's good looking and doesn't scream Soccer Squirts On Board! It accelerates quickly and corners reasonably well, which makes it pleasant to drive. The Pacifica Limited is luxurious, equipped with nearly all the bells and whistles. The base model is practical, and with essential safety equipment, family features and all-wheel drive, it still sells well below $30,000.

NewCarTestDrive correspondent Tom Lankard reported from Northern California, with J.P. Vettraino reporting from Detroit.