2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh, showcasing a revised exterior with new standard LED headlights flanking a hexagonal grille. This update gave the Pacifica a more muscular appearance, moving away from the elegance of previous models. The sophistication of the original design remained evident as the eye traveled from the front to the sides and rear, where a new all-LED taillamp spanned the width of the vehicle, featuring the Chrysler wing badge at its center. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which included darkened features and black accents.

Inside, the Pacifica distinguished itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Sedona by balancing practicality with premium touches. The Pacifica Pinnacle trim, in particular, catered to luxury customers with features like a flat dashboard, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and upscale materials such as quilted leather seats and wood accents. The minivan's doors closed with a solid thud, and sound-deadening technology ensured a quiet ride, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a bold design with a blunt, bulbous nose and black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect. Its swollen haunches balanced the styling, though the flared quarter panels could overwhelm the design. Over time, the Highlander's appearance might have become more familiar and less polarizing. The Highlander offered trims with 20-inch wheels, and the hybrid version was available in LE, XLE, Limited, or Platinum specifications, with pricing ranging from $38,410 to $48,365.

The Highlander Hybrid Limited trim provided a comfortable interior with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the second-row bench seat option felt narrow, and the third-row seat lacked comfort and space. Storage was adequate but not as generous as previous models, and the cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The Highlander Hybrid's interior design and storage solutions were practical but had room for improvement.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 287 horsepower and a hybrid powertrain with a combined 260 horsepower. The hybrid version featured a dual-motor electrically variable transmission and a 16-kilowatt-hour battery, providing an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range exceeding 500 miles. The Pacifica Hybrid achieved 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined, while the traditional V6 delivered 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The AWD option, new to the lineup, activated on-demand and deactivated for efficiency when not needed.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 243 horsepower. It achieved 36 mpg combined with FWD and 35 mpg with AWD. The hybrid used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While the Highlander Hybrid improved in efficiency, it sacrificed driving enjoyment, with power described as adequate but strained during acceleration. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride exhibited unwanted body movement. However, the regenerative brakes performed well, and the SUV offered a quiet and comfortable freeway experience.

The Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical storage solutions. The minivan featured power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow ’n Go seats for flexible cargo space. The Pacifica Pinnacle boasted best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited provided roomy accommodations for front passengers, but the second-row bench seat felt narrow, and the third-row seat lacked comfort. Storage was less generous than previous models, with a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet. The Highlander Hybrid's interior design was practical but had limitations in space and storage solutions.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured Uconnect 5, a modern infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera, and a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The Pacifica's technology offerings enhanced convenience and entertainment for families.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The top infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. Toyota's Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror added convenience, while the infotainment system offered a user-friendly experience.

The Chrysler Pacifica came standard with 97 safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ equipped the Highlander Hybrid with advanced driver-assist tech, including intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The Highlander earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS.