2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2020 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Honda CR-V, part of Honda's fifth-generation compact crossover lineup, had a design that was both familiar and enjoyable. Its exterior styling was characterized by soft, curvy lines that resembled Honda's sedan lineup, giving it a station wagon-like appearance rather than a traditional SUV look. This design approach made the CR-V a modern family transportation staple. However, the interior told a different story, with a mix of textures and materials that included upscale wood-look trim and leather upholstery in higher trims, clashing with lower-quality plastics. This contrast reminded drivers that even the pricier CR-V models were essentially upgraded versions of a commodity car.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica underwent a mid-generation refresh that gave it a more muscular aesthetic with new standard LED headlights and a hexagonal grille. The Pacifica retained some of its original design sophistication, especially as one moved from the front to the sides and rear, where a new all-LED taillamp spanned the width of the model. The Pacifica's interior was designed with family life in mind, offering a premium feel in top trims like the Pinnacle, which featured soft-touch materials, quilted Nappa leather seats, and a flat dashboard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Pacifica's design was practical yet luxurious, making it a standout in the minivan segment.

The 2020 Honda CR-V was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine standard across all trims, producing 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, despite some CVTs' reputation for sluggishness, provided a responsive and fuel-efficient driving experience. The CR-V's car-like demeanor extended to its road manners, offering nimble handling and a firm yet comfortable ride. Its lightweight design contributed to its excellent fuel efficiency, with FWD models rated at 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres combined and AWD models at 8.1.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered two powertrain options: a traditional 3.6-litre V6 engine with 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and a V6 hybrid engine paired 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 consumption rating of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres. The traditional V6 Pacifica had a combined fuel consumption of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, which increased to 12.0 when AWD was added. The AWD system was a new addition, automatically engaging when needed to improve traction and deactivating for better fuel efficiency when conditions allowed.

The 2020 Honda CR-V was known for its masterful packaging, offering a spacious cabin comparable to the Volkswagen Tiguan without feeling oversized. It provided excellent head- and legroom, thanks to its optimal seating position and low cowl. The CR-V's cargo space was generous, with a two-position load floor allowing for flexible storage options. Clever storage solutions, such as a deep centre console and large door pockets, made the CR-V practical for everyday use.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica was designed with family life in mind, offering spacious front seats and a feeling of togetherness. It featured power-sliding rear doors, three-zone climate control, and Stow 'n Go seating for flexible cargo and passenger arrangements. The Pacifica's cargo area was expansive, providing best-in-class total storage of 3,979 litres. The interior included thoughtful storage solutions, such as under-console storage for second-row passengers and a sliding bin for additional convenience.

The 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system showed its age, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen that felt small compared to competitors. The system lacked hard buttons, making it challenging to operate, and while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, they felt tacked on. However, the CR-V offered plenty of USB ports and a wireless phone charger in higher trims.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was modern, responsive, and customizable. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard, 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 included FamCam, an interior monitoring camera with advanced features.

The 2020 Honda CR-V came standard with the "Honda Sensing" suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with some caveats for lower trims due to headlight performance.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica offered up to 116 safety features, with most becoming available at the Touring-L grade. These included automatic pedestrian emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Pacifica received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated the model at the time of publication.