2020 Ford Escape vs 2021 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2020 Ford Escape was a striking compact crossover, borrowing design elements from the Ford GT supercar, with a large grille reminiscent of the Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks. Its curvaceous design, while aesthetically pleasing, resulted in a reduction of cargo space compared to its predecessor. Inside, the Escape boasted a modern cabin with a digital instrument panel and a floating infotainment screen, maintaining a balance between futuristic design and practical control placement. The Escape was available in four trims, with the SE trim offering a commendable value due to its 8-inch Sync 3 screen, automatic climate control, and heated front seats.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh, featuring a more muscular exterior with new LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The rear showcased an all-LED taillamp spanning the width of the vehicle. Inside, the Pacifica offered a premium feel, especially in the Pinnacle trim, with quilted Nappa leather seats and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Pacifica balanced practicality and luxury, with features like Stow 'n Go seating and ample storage solutions, making it a top choice for families seeking a premium minivan experience.

The 2020 Ford Escape offered a diverse range of powertrains, including a new 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque, standard on the S, SE, and SEL trims. The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, available on the SEL and standard on the Titanium, delivered 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, providing brisk acceleration. The Escape also featured hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, with the hybrid setup generating 198 horsepower. The Escape's handling was sporty, with direct steering and responsive brakes, and its most efficient version, the hybrid, achieved fuel consumption figures of 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Pacifica Hybrid combined a V6 engine with a dual-motor electrically variable transmission, achieving 260 horsepower. The hybrid model boasted an all-electric range of over 50 kilometres and a total range of 784 kilometres. The Pacifica's AWD system, available for the first time in 16 years, activated on-demand based on driving conditions, enhancing traction and stability. The traditional V6 Pacifica achieved fuel efficiency figures of 12.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city.

The 2020 Ford Escape's sleek design resulted in reduced cargo space, offering 974 litres behind the second row and up to 1,852 litres with the rear seats folded. Despite this, the Escape prioritized passenger space, providing ample headroom and legroom for second-row passengers. The front seats offered commanding positions with good visibility, and the cabin featured numerous storage solutions for everyday items.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a practical cabin layout. The Pacifica featured power-sliding doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating, allowing for flexible cargo and passenger configurations. The minivan's cargo area provided best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres, making it ideal for family travel. The Pacifica's interior storage solutions, including under-console storage for second-row passengers, added to its practicality.

The 2020 Ford Escape's base trim featured a small 4.2-inch audio control screen, while the SE trim upgraded to an 8-inch Sync touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Titanium trim included a head-up display, although its flip-up screen design limited its effectiveness for taller drivers.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was modern and customizable, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with an optional second-row in-seat entertainment system. The Pacifica offered a range of audio system upgrades, including a 19-speaker Harman Kardon option. The Pinnacle model featured FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with advanced functionality.

The 2020 Ford Escape came standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of safety features including forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. It also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Escape received a Good rating from the IIHS in all phases of testing.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with key features available from the Touring-L grade. These included automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning with active braking. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.