2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a significant mid-generation refresh, showcasing a revised exterior that featured 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. Despite these changes, the Pacifica retained some of its original sophistication, particularly noticeable as one moved from the front to the sides and rear of the vehicle. The rear was adorned with a new all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the model, with the Chrysler wing badge prominently displayed at its center. The Pacifica offered six new wheel designs and the S Appearance Package, which included darkened features and black accents, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Inside, the Pacifica distinguished itself from competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Sedona by offering a blend of practicality and luxury, especially in the Pinnacle trim. The interior featured a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, complemented by Piano Black plastic trim, wood accents, and real metal surrounds. The Pinnacle trim boasted quilted leather seats, suede center row pillows, and Berber floor mats, creating an upscale ambiance. The Pacifica's doors had a well-weighted feel, and the vehicle's sound-deadening technology ensured a quiet ride, thanks to improved windows, seals, and insulation.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, continued its second generation into its 14th year without substantial changes, maintaining a mature design. The Sequoia's exterior was characterized by a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a timeless appeal. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and tight seams. However, the design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in the current market. The Nightshade Special Edition model added a touch of modernity with darkened chrome or black-painted finishes and split-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a hybrid powertrain combining a V6 engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower from the engine and 198 horsepower from its motors. The base Touring and Touring L trims came standard with the V6 engine, while the Limited and Pinnacle trims offered all-wheel drive (AWD) or the hybrid powertrain. The AWD system, reintroduced after 16 years, activated on-demand based on various conditions, enhancing the Pacifica's versatility. The hybrid model boasted an all-electric range of over 30 miles and a total range exceeding 500 miles, delivering 82 MPGe and 30 mpg combined. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined, with AWD models seeing a slight decrease in fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential, and a two-speed transfer case with low range in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots contributed to its impressive payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. However, its weight, ranging from 5,730 to 6,000 pounds, resulted in lower fuel economy ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined for RWD models and 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/14 mpg combined for 4WD models. Despite its heft, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its robust construction and ample ground clearance.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious seating and practical features throughout the cabin. The front seats provided ample space and a sense of togetherness, with a padded center console lid replacing traditional armrests. Storage options included an under-stack area with a rubberized bin, power-sliding rear doors, and Stow 'n Go seating for flexible cargo arrangements. The Pacifica's second-row passengers benefited from under-console storage, while the third-row seats offered sufficient legroom for children and adults. The Pacifica Pinnacle boasted best-in-class total storage of 227.6 liters, making it ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering roomy seating across all three rows. Three-zone climate control catered to all occupants, while a standard one-touch tilt/slide power moonroof added to the cabin's airy feel. The Sequoia's center console and glove compartment provided ample storage, with additional pockets on each door. The cargo compartment featured an auxiliary 12-volt outlet, accommodating 18.9 cubic feet of luggage behind the third row. Folding the third row expanded the cargo space to 66.6 cubic feet, while folding both the second and third rows created a generous 120.1 cubic feet of space.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured advanced technology, including hands-free sliding doors on mid-grade and above models. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered a modern and customizable experience, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. The second-row in-seat entertainment system remained an option, with additional games available. The Pacifica offered a range of audio upgrades, including a 20-speaker Harman Kardon system. The Pinnacle model included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with unique features like rear-facing child seat view and zoom-to-seat functionality.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard, along with WiFi connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with a premium audio and convenience package available. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica came standard with 97 safety features, increasing to 100 in the Pinnacle trim. Key safety technologies included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated the model.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it featured the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The Sequoia also included the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes, along with a full complement of airbags and other safety features.