What is Bigger: Ford Explorer XLT or Chrysler Pacifica?

Standing in the Ford dealership, you’re wondering: Can I really have an adventure-ready SUV without the complexity of removable roofs? The Bronco Sport answers that question with an engineering solution that’s smarter than you might expect. This isn’t just a vehicle – it’s a carefully designed companion built for real-world explorers who want capability without compromise.

Let’s cut to the chase: the Chrysler Pacifica is actually bigger than the Ford Explorer XLT in most dimensions. The Pacifica stretches about 204 inches in length (that’s nearly 17 feet!), compared to the Explorer’s 199 inches.

Inside, the difference is even more dramatic. The Pacifica offers a whopping 140.5 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Explorer tops out at 87.8 cubic feet. Trust me, those extra cubic feet make a real difference when you’re trying to pack for a family vacation!

Overview of Ford Explorer XLT vs. Chrysler Pacifica

Remember when SUVs were just starting to replace minivans as the go-to family vehicle? Well, these two rides perfectly represent that ongoing battle. The Ford Explorer XLT carries the torch for the SUV camp with its muscular stance and adventure-ready attitude. It’s built for those who want their family hauler to double as a weekend warrior, with genuine off-road capabilities and a commanding presence on the road.

The Explorer’s higher ground clearance makes it a better choice if you frequently tackle rough roads or snowy conditions.

The Chrysler Pacifica, on the other hand, proves that minivans haven’t lost their mojo. It’s the Swiss Army knife of family vehicles, with clever storage solutions and comfort features that make daily life easier. I recently helped my neighbor move some furniture in his Pacifica, and I couldn’t believe how much stuff we fit in there with just a few quick seat adjustments.

Fun Fact: The Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go seating system can create a completely flat load floor in less than a minute – no need to remove any seats!

Size Comparison: Dimensions and Interior Space

Exterior Dimensions

Let’s break down the size difference with some real-world perspective. The Pacifica’s extra length compared to the Explorer is about the size of a large pizza box. Here’s a handy comparison:

Interior Dimensions

Here’s where things get really interesting. The Pacifica’s boxy shape isn’t just for looks – it’s all about maximizing interior space. The minivan design allows for nearly 20% more passenger space than the Explorer, with room for up to eight passengers compared to the Explorer’s seven-seat maximum.

I remember attending my kid’s soccer practice and watching a teammate’s parent effortlessly load six kids plus gear into their Pacifica. Meanwhile, I was playing Tetris with sports equipment in my SUV (before I knew better, of course!).

Cargo Capacity

The numbers tell quite a story here:

The Explorer offers:

• 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row
• 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row
• 87.8 cubic feet total with all seats down

The Pacifica provides:

• 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row
• 87.5 cubic feet behind the second row
• 140.5 cubic feet total with all seats stowed

Performance: Power, Towing, and Fuel Efficiency

Let’s talk about what’s under the hood. You know that feeling when you’re trying to merge onto a busy highway? That’s when engine power really matters.

Engine Options

The Ford Explorer XLT comes with a muscular 2.3L turbocharged engine that pumps out 300 horsepower. Think of it as having the strength of 300 horses packed into your engine – more than enough to get you moving! During a recent mountain trip, I watched an Explorer confidently climb steep grades while pulling a camping trailer, barely breaking a sweat.

The Pacifica takes a different approach with its 3.6L V6 engine delivering 287 horsepower. While that’s slightly less powerful on paper, here’s a secret: the Pacifica’s lighter build means it feels just as peppy in everyday driving. Plus, there’s a hybrid version that’s perfect for city dwellers looking to save on gas.

If you’re concerned about fuel costs, the Pacifica Hybrid can travel up to 32 miles on electricity alone – perfect for daily school runs and grocery trips!

Towing Capacity

Here’s where the Explorer really flexes its muscles:

The Explorer’s towing capacity is enough to pull a 22-foot travel trailer – that’s like dragging your entire living room behind you!

Fuel Efficiency

Nobody likes stopping for gas every other day. Here’s how these vehicles compare:

The Explorer XLT averages:

• City: 21 mpg
• Highway: 28 mpg
• Combined: 24 mpg

The Pacifica delivers:

• City: 19 mpg
• Highway: 28 mpg
• Combined: 22 mpg (regular model)
• Hybrid combined: 82 MPGe

I switched from an older SUV to a Pacifica Hybrid last year, and my monthly gas budget dropped by nearly half!

Comfort and Features: Tailoring to Family Needs

Seating Flexibility

Remember playing with Transformers as a kid? The Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go seating system is kind of like that – but for grown-ups! You can transform from maximum passenger space to cargo hauler in under a minute, without removing any seats. This came in super handy when I helped my sister move her daughter into college. We went from carrying seven people to loading a mini-fridge and dorm supplies in just a few quick moves.

The Explorer takes a more traditional approach with fold-down seats. While not as fancy, they’re well-padded and more comfortable for long trips. The second-row captain’s chairs (optional) are particularly nice for keeping peace between squabbling siblings – I speak from experience here!

Infotainment and Connectivity

Both vehicles understand that modern families need their tech. The Explorer features the user-friendly SYNC 3 system with a crisp 8-inch touchscreen (upgradeable to 10.1 inches). It’s like having a tablet computer built into your dash, but with physical buttons for important controls – much safer when you’re driving!

The Pacifica counters with its Uconnect system, which includes:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Optional rear-seat entertainment system with streaming capability

The Pacifica’s rear entertainment system can play different content on each screen – perfect for keeping peace between kids with different tastes!

Additional Features for Families

This is where the Pacifica really shines with some clever features you didn’t know you needed until you have them:

• Built-in vacuum cleaner (goodbye, crushed crackers!)
• Hands-free sliding doors (a lifesaver when carrying groceries)
• Easy-access third row with tilt-and-slide seating

The Explorer focuses more on adventure-ready features:

• Terrain management system
• Hill descent control
• 360-degree camera with split-view display

Safety Features and Ratings

Let’s talk about what really matters – keeping your precious cargo safe. After all, your vehicle choice should give you peace of mind every time you hit the road.

Safety Ratings

Both vehicles shine when it comes to safety, but there are some interesting differences. The Pacifica and Explorer both earned the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, which is like getting straight A’s on your safety report card.

Here’s a real-world perspective: Last summer, my cousin’s Pacifica protected her family perfectly in a fender-bender. The incident really showed me why these safety ratings matter beyond just numbers on a page.

Quick Tip: Both vehicles offer excellent visibility, but the Pacifica’s large windows and available 360-degree camera make parking at crowded school pickup zones much less stressful.

Safety Ratings Comparison:

Driver Assistance and Safety Technology

Remember when backup cameras seemed high-tech? Both vehicles now pack enough safety tech to make a spacecraft jealous!

The Explorer’s Co-Pilot360 system includes:

• Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking
• Lane-keeping system
• Blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
• Auto high-beam headlamps

I recently watched these features in action when a friend’s Explorer automatically braked to avoid a deer – pretty impressive stuff!

The Pacifica matches up with:

• Forward collision warning with active braking
• LaneSense lane departure warning
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear park assist with stop

The Pacifica’s available KeySense technology lets you set speed limits and radio volume restrictions for teenage drivers. (Trust me, your teens will love this… not!)

Vehicle Suitability Quiz

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Needs

Who Should Choose the Ford Explorer XLT?

The Explorer XLT is your go-to if you’re what I call an “adventure parent.” It’s perfect for families who:

• Frequently head off the beaten path
• Need serious towing capacity for boats or campers
• Want the confidence of all-wheel drive in rough weather
• Prefer a more commanding driving position

I watched my neighbor tackle a snowstorm in his Explorer last winter while other cars stayed parked. That’s the kind of capability that makes the extra fuel costs worth it for some families.

Who Should Choose the Chrysler Pacifica?

The Pacifica shines for what I call the “logistics masters” – parents who juggle daily family life like professional event planners. You’ll love the Pacifica if you:

• Regularly transport multiple kids and their friends
• Need maximum cargo flexibility
• Value fuel efficiency (especially with the hybrid option)
• Want the easiest possible access for car seats and elderly passengers

Final Comparison: Which Is the Better Choice?

After spending countless hours with both vehicles (and talking to dozens of owners), here’s my honest take: There’s no universal “better” choice – it depends entirely on your family’s lifestyle.

Think of it this way: The Pacifica is like a Swiss Army knife – incredibly versatile and practical for daily family life. The Explorer XLT is more like a sturdy multi-tool – ready for adventure while still handling daily tasks competently.

Choose the Pacifica if:

• Maximum interior space is your priority
• You regularly transport 6+ people
• You want class-leading fuel economy (hybrid)
• Easy loading/unloading is essential

Go for the Explorer XLT if:

• You need serious towing capability
• Off-road adventures are in your future
• You prefer a more rugged appearance
• All-weather capability is crucial

In my experience, Pacifica owners rarely miss their SUVs, while Explorer owners rarely miss their minivans – it’s all about matching the right tool to your lifestyle!

Remember, the “bigger” vehicle isn’t always the better choice for your family. Focus on which vehicle’s strengths best match your daily needs and occasional adventures. After all, the best family vehicle is the one that makes your life easier while keeping everyone safe and comfortable.

Have you considered what percentage of your driving is daily commuting versus weekend adventure? That might be the key to making your final decision!