2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant exterior refresh, featuring new standard LED headlights and a hexagonal grille that contributed to a more muscular aesthetic. This design shift moved away from the elegance of previous models, yet retained a touch of sophistication as the eye moved towards the sides and rear. The rear was marked by an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the vehicle, with the Chrysler wing badge at its centre. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which included darkened features and black accents. Inside, the Pacifica stood out with its premium materials and practical design, especially in the Pinnacle trim, which boasted a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and quilted Nappa leather seats. The Pacifica's doors had a well-weighted feel, and its sound-deadening technology ensured a quiet ride.

The 2022 Ford Explorer presented a taut, athletic appearance with its rear-drive platform, long hood, and rakish roofline. The blacked-out roof pillars created a "floating roof" effect, popular in previous generations. The Explorer's cabin, especially in higher trims, offered a mix of quality and questionable materials. While it mostly justified its price point, occasional reminders of the base trim were evident. The Explorer's design emphasized a sporty look, with the ST-Line trim adding a dynamic touch. The King Ranch model, although not available in Canada, showcased features similar to the top-of-the-line Platinum trim, offering a blend of luxury and practicality.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrains: a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a V6 hybrid engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The Pacifica Hybrid had an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres, with a fuel efficiency of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.4 on the highway, with AWD models seeing a slight decrease in efficiency.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, producing 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque, with a fuel consumption of 9.6 L/100 km. The Explorer ST and Platinum trims came with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and a fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offering a sporty driving experience.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a padded centre console lid for a sense of togetherness. It featured rear power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for flexible cargo space. The Pacifica's cargo area provided best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited legroom. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable heated steering wheel. The Explorer's cargo space was 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with both rear rows folded. However, practical storage within the cabin was limited, with missed opportunities for additional storage solutions.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a modern and customizable experience with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like a rear-facing child seat view. The Pacifica offered a range of sound system upgrades, including a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was less advanced compared to Ford's newer Sync 4 technology. The Platinum trim offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with key features like automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control available from the Touring-L grade. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also featured a post-collision braking system and MyKey programmable vehicle functions.